Frequently Asked Questions About Tire Care

Posted on June 10, 2022 by Autohaus

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

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

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FAQ About Tire Maintenance

What Does Tire Care Involve?

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

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

What is the Proper Tire Tread Depth?

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

How Do I Measure My Tire Tread?

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

What is the Proper Tire Pressure?

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

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

How Do I Measure Tire Pressure?

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

Do I Need to Rotate and Balance My Car Tires?

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

Can Tires Impact Fuel Economy?

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

Why Does My Car Not Come With a Spare Tire?

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

Do I Need a Spare Tire?

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

Does your luxury import vehicle need some professional tire service? Contact Autohaus Dierolf at 317-571-0800 for professional European auto repair and service in Indianapolis, Carmel, Indiana. We are factory-trained German mechanics who specialize in Mercedes, BMW, Audi, and Volkswagen, but work on all European and British cars.

5 Signs That Suggest Your Car Needs Fuel Pump Replacement

Posted on May 31, 2022 by Autohaus

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

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

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When a Fuel Pump Goes Out

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

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

Common Signs of a Fuel Pump Problem

Failed Ignition Attempts

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

Sputtering and Stalling

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

Rear Bumper Whirring

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

Engine Surging

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

Increased Fuel Consumption

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

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

The Difference Between Transmission Fluid and Differential Fluid

Posted on March 8, 2022 by Autohaus

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

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

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Differential Fluid and Transmission Fluid Are Not the Same

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

Differential Fluid

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

Key Attributes of Gear Oil:

▶ Thicker Viscosity
▶ Higher Heat Resistance
▶ High Pressure Resistance

Transmission Fluid

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

Key Attributes of Transmission Fluid:

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

FAQS About Transmission and Differential Fluid:

Can You Use Transmission Fluid in Place of Differential Fluid?

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

Can I Use Engine Oil Instead of Differential Fluid?

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

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

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

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

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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

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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

When Should I Change the Coolant in My Car?

Posted on May 27, 2021 by Autohaus

No matter the time of year, coolant is an essential automotive fluid for all make and model vehicles. But when the summer heat approaches, the need to keep your car’s engine cool and running smoothly is even more pressing. Not sure if your car’s coolant needs to be refilled or replaced yet?

Continue below to learn everything you need to know about radiator flushes, coolant replacement, and factory scheduled maintenance.

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Facts About Your Car’s Coolant

Engine coolant goes by many names, including radiator fluid, radiator coolant, or antifreeze. No matter what you call it, engine coolant is one of the most vital car fluids for any vehicle. It is a combination of antifreeze and water (usually a 50/50 mix), and serves a number of purposes for a car.

First, it runs through a vehicle’s radiator to remove any excess heat and prevent the engine from overheating. Next, since it contains antifreeze chemicals, it prevents it from freezing up in cold temperatures. But also, engine coolant prevents corrosion and works as a lubricant to the water pump and other internal workings.

So, as you can see, radiator fluid is very important for a car or truck to operate safely and effectively. Continue reading to learn when your vehicles engine coolant should be changed, as well as, factory car maintenance scheduling, and more!

What You Need to Know About Radiator Fluid Flushes

Coolant Flushes

Changing or replacing the radiator fluid in your vehicle is referred to as coolant flush. Regular coolant flushes are vital for your vehicle because it inhibits corrosion, prevents over-heating, and provides lubrication to the internal workings of your engine’s water pump, radiator, and heater core.

Dirty or Discolored Coolant

To properly identify when your coolant is dirty, you must first know what the color of the fluid is when brand new. The primary colors of engine coolant are yellow, orange, green, and black. Check the color of your radiator fluid once every week. When this color starts to change, you know it’s time to change your radiator fluid. But the most noticeable sign that it is time to replace the coolant is when your engine starts to overheat. The temperature gauge on your car’s dashboard will tell you how hot the engine is getting, and if you start to see smoke, it’s gone too far!

Overheating Engines

Never operate a vehicle with an overheating engine. Not only is this extremely dangerous, it causes significant damage to the engine. This can result in a costly repair, engine replacement, or even a totaled vehicle. As soon as you are aware your engine is overheating, take it to an auto so immediately and have it serviced.

Regular Fluids Changes

All fluids should be changed, flushed, and replaced regularly for all vehicles. The general factory car maintenance schedule is every 3,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first. This includes motor oil, transmission fluid, brake fluid, power steering fluid, battery fluid, windshield wiper fluid, and in some cases, even transfer case lubricants. But engine coolant does not need to be replaced this often. Most manufacturers suggest flushing the coolant every 24,000 to 36,000 miles, or once every 2 to 3 years. But if you are driving in hot climates or long distances regularly, then once per year is a better schedule.

How to Learn More About Car Care for Your Make and Model Vehicle

Consult a licensed automotive service and repair technician for information regarding your make and model vehicle’s factory maintenance schedule. An ASE-licensed mechanic will have up-to-date knowledge and information for all make and model cars and trucks.

Does your luxury import or European vehicle require some professional car maintenance or repair? Contact Autohaus Dierolf at 317-571-0800 for factory scheduled car maintenance in Carmel, Indianapolis, Indiana.

You Should Also Read:

The Seven Essential Automotive Fluids Every Vehicle Needs
Why You Should Take Routine Oil Changes Seriously
How to Correct an Overheating Car Engine

Factory Recommended Maintenance for Car Brakes

Posted on April 21, 2021 by Autohaus

Routine vehicle maintenance is extremely important in order to maintain quality performance, safety, and dependability. Although there are several elements involved in proper automotive maintenance, brake care is among the most critical since they are a top safety feature in every vehicle. For this reason, their factory scheduled maintenance needs should never be ignored or neglected. Whether you are a brand new driver new to car care, or the owner of a primary vehicle that you depend on daily, it is important that you understand how to take good care of your car brakes for optimal safety, performance, and longevity.

Continue reading to learn about recommended car brake maintenance, including how to determine if your vehicle needs brake service or repair.

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The Importance of Routine Car Brake Maintenance

In order to take good care of your brakes, you will need to provide routine maintenance, as well as focus on your driving habits. When driving, try not to start and stop suddenly, nor burn your brakes out by pushing the gas pedal while your car is in park. These are highly damaging to your overall braking system. In terms of routine maintenance, brakes require periodic pad changes, rotor inspections, brake fluid refills, and more. Most of these services should be implement by a professional mechanic who retains the proper skills and resources to ensure your vehicle remains a safe means of transportation.

How to Identify Problems With Car Brakes

In between routine factory scheduled maintenance, you will need to stay on top of any repairs you might need. In order to determine the condition of your car brakes without being a professional mechanic, simply look for some common signs. When your car brakes are in faulty condition, they will likely warn you somehow. For example, when car brakes squeak when you apply pressure, this is an indication that your brake pads are wearing thin. But it can also mean a variety of other things as well.

If your brakes are squeaky, you must have them inspected immediately; otherwise, the brake damage will only worsen and potentially cost you more to repair. And if you continue to drive on bad brakes, not only is your safety in danger, but you can also permanently damage your car’s braking system. This could lead to ultimate brake failure and costly car brake replacement.

In addition to squeaky brakes, additional driving developments can indicate a problem. If you find your brakes slipping a bit when you use them, or you need to apply more or extended pressure to come to a complete stop, it could be a warning sign too. This is where a professional Carmel Indiana car mechanic can help. They can accurately diagnose any brake problem.

Get Your Car Brakes Inspected Annually

Be sure to have your brakes inspected annually, or at least according to your car’s factory recommendations found in the owners’ manual. In between scheduled car maintenance, if you ever suspect that there is a complication with your car brakes, tow your vehicle into a trusted mechanic immediately. A professional and licensed automotive mechanic has the knowledge and certifications to accurately identify brake issues and get you safely back on the road.

Automotive shops retain the latest technologies and resources to accurately diagnose brake problems in all make and model vehicles. In many cases, an Indian apolis auto repair shop will offer deals and payment plans to make the cost of repair more convenient or affordable for clients. For instance, many companies are known to eliminate the cost of inspection if you choose to do business with them. This can be savings up to three hundred dollars or more!

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

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The 4 Types of Car Brakes
Routine Automotive Services Recommended Just for European Vehicles
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How to Change Your Car Oil and Air Filters

Posted on April 12, 2021 by Autohaus

Routine air filter replacement and oil filter replacement are both vital for optimal vehicular performance and overall safety. Depending on the particular make and model of your car, air filter replacement is usually needed between 12,000 and 15,000 miles. But you don’t have to take your car into the shop for this if you are a hands-on kind of person. You can likely change your own oil and oil filter without the help of a professional mechanic!

Continue reading to learn how to change your car oil and air filters all in one go.

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The 101 on DIY Automotive Filter Changes

What You Need

All you need in order to change your air filters is the right supplies and a little knowledge. Then, you are ready to change your car’s oil all by yourself. Acquire a new oil filter, an oil pan to store the dirty oil, a car jack, a socket set, a funnel, and a couple bottles of the motor oil your car uses. Safety goggles, rubber gloves, a flashlight, and a few clean cloths wouldn’t hurt either.

Instructions for Engine Filter Changes

Oil Filter Replacement

First, run your car engine for a few minutes to warm the oil up because warm oil flows easier. Then, lift your vehicle off the ground with the car jack and place the oil pan beneath your vehicle. Be sure you have used a car jack before, as they can pose certain dangers if you don’t know what you are doing.

Next, unscrew your oil cap located under the hood, and the oil drain plug beneath your car. This plug generally looks like a single bolt underneath your car’s oil compartment. Double check your vehicle owners’ manual for instructions on locating the oil drain plug.

Motor oil should be changed every 3,000 to 5,000 miles, or sooner depending on how often you drive.

Put on your rubber gloves and use a socket wrench to unscrew the drain plug a few rounds, then use your hands to unscrew the rest of the way. Allow all the dirty oil to drain out completely. Replace the drain plug and then change the oil filter.

Once this is all done, you can use your funnel to pour your new, clean oil into your engine. The next step is replacing the oil filter. Simply unscrew the old filter, allow any excess oil to drain, and then replace and tighten the filter. If you are not using paper filters, use a tiny bit of oil to lubricate the edges of the new filter before screwing it back into place.

Air Filter Replacement

Aside from oil filters, your vehicle has air filters that need replaced on a routine basis. These are inexpensive and can be purchased at any local automotive store or general store. Expect to pay anywhere from $15 to $20 per filter. If you neglect to change your air filters, overtime you will notice a major decrease in gas mileage and vehicular performance. Luckily, this is a maintenance job you can do all by yourself! It is a simple ten minute process that is easy to learn how to do. Just follow your owners’ manual instructions!

Need some help with your routine car maintenance needs? Contact Autohaus Dierolf at 317-571-0800 for factory scheduled maintenance in Carmel, Indiana for European vehicles. Our German factory trained mechanics offer dealership quality European auto repair at neighborhood prices!

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The Seven Essential Automotive Fluids Every Vehicle Needs
Why You Should Take Routine Oil Changes Seriously
How to Correct an Overheating Car Engine

How Does Tire Width Affect Gas Mileage in Cars?

Posted on February 25, 2021 by Autohaus

Today, everyone is looking for the answer to better gas mileage. Vehicle owners and drivers are on a constant hunt for secrets, miracle cures, rises in the economy, and blatant luck to reduce gas mileage, prices, and fuel consumption. There are several reasons why vehicles can get good or bad gas mileage. There are so many factors that affect this area of concern; however, there is one variable that is hardly discussed but highly influential when it comes to fuel mileage. This variable is tire width. Tires have a large influence on how a car or truck operates on the road.

Continue reading to learn how tire size can affect fuel economy and gas mileage on the road.

Fuel System Repair Carmel Indianapolis — Fuel System Repair and Car Maintenance Carmel, Indiana 317-571-0800

The 101 on Gas Mileage and Tire Care

There are two things to consider when thinking about tires and their effect on gas mileage; one is wind resistance, and the other is rolling resistance. When a car is driving at higher speeds, it experiences higher wind resistance; this means lower fuel economy. Rolling resistance is the impact the road has on the tires, and how it affects drivability. If you change the features (size and width) of your tires, it will then influence the interaction it has with the road, thus affecting the gas mileage. This is where tire width can begin to influence gas mileage.

Tire Size and Width Influences Gas Mileage

Many people believe by changing the height of a car’s tires, they can increase its fuel economy. This is not a reliable idea. You see, speedometers are specifically calibrated to the number of revolutions a set of tires makes per mile while driving. If the original set of tires is replaced, the calibration will be off and changes in fuel economy will be blurred. Shorter tires will calculate at higher gas mileage because they will make so many more revolutions per mile. This negatively affects fuel consumption because it makes the car’s engine work at a higher rpm to achieve the same speeds. Taller tires will do just the opposite while still offering an inaccurate reading.

Tire Width versus Gas Mileage

Tire width is one of the only tire size factors that can influence gas mileage in a positive way. For example, a narrow tire will have less wind resistance, rolling resistance, and weight, thus, increasing gas mileage. If choosing a narrower tire, be aware that they can make the car’s handling characteristics more difficult to control. It is best to always install the proper size tires for your particular vehicle. A professional tire tech or mechanic will have no problem helping you figure this out. Also, keeping your tires fully inflated can improve gas mileage.

Do you need fuel system repair or factory scheduled maintenance for a European car in Carmel, Indianapolis, IN? Contact Autohaus Dierolf at 317-571-0800 for the best deals around town!

More Reads to Check Out:

Top 5 Car Parts Affected By Cold Weather
How to Start the New Year With Better Fuel Mileage
Routine Automotive Services Recommended Just for European Vehicles

When Do I Need to Change the Fluids in My Car?

Posted on January 27, 2021 by Autohaus

If you were to refer to the owner’s manual of your vehicle, you may run into some confusion around the parts concerning the recommended maintenance and service schedules. This is because there is not just one simple factory schedule for your car in its manual. There is a schedule for “normal” driving, and a second schedule for “severe” driving. You see, the frequency at which you replace the fluids in your vehicle depends on the type of driving you do.

Continue reading to learn whether you are a normal or severe driver, as well as everything you need to know about your vehicle’s recommended fluid change schedule and how to get started at a trusted Carmel, Indiana mechanic near you.

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Normal Driving Versus Severe Driving

Before discussing the fluids that all vehicles require, and when to change these fluids, it is necessary to identify and understand the two types of driving and which types matches you. Most average drivers will simply need to follow the normal driving schedule. You are very likely a normal driver. But, rather than reading through the criteria of a normal driver, it is much easier to identify what severe driving is since normal is the more common type of driving. So, are you a severe driver? Check out the factors that will tell you so, below!

Severe drivers will exhibit all or most of the following habits or practices:

🚘 A vehicle is used for delivery or transportation purposes (i.e. pizza delivery, taxi cabs, food trucks, etc.).

🚘 Most excursions involve prolonged idling (i.e. stop and go traffic, rush hour, etc.).

🚘 Most excursions involve dusty and bumpy terrains (i.e. dirt roads, gravel, etc.).

🚘 A vehicle is used for hauling, towing, or carrying loads and freights.

🚘 Most driving trips are less than 10 miles, round-trip.

Automotive Fluid Changes for Normal Drivers

If you do not exhibit any of these driving habits or requirements, then you should follow the “normal” drivers schedule when it comes to fluid, filter, and lubricant changes. All vehicles require 7 vital fluids for safe driving, handling, and optimal performance. If you neglect to provide these fluid changes for your car or truck, it will quickly deteriorate and eventually breakdown. The seven fluids include motor oil, brake fluid, anti-freeze (coolant), power steering fluid, transmission fluid, battery fluid, and windshield wiper fluid.

When to Get Car Fluids Replaced

A car battery generally needs replaced every few years, depending on your driving and habits, and windshield wiper fluid can be re-filled as much as needed. All other fluids should be changed or refilled every six months or 5,000 miles, whichever comes first. Your local Carmel, Indianapolis car mechanic can answer any questions you have about factory scheduled maintenance for your vehicle. They retain the proper tools, training, knowledge, and resources to accurately assess your vehicle’s condition and make professional valuations and recommendations you can trust.

Auto Service and Maintenance for European Cars in Carmel, Indianapolis

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.