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!

You Might 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

European Automotive Repair Carmel Indiana 317-577-0800

Top 5 Car Parts Affected By Cold Weather

Posted on December 29, 2020 by Autohaus

When the winter weather becomes extreme, the harsh climates and freezing temperatures can affect our daily lives in more ways than one. An area of your life that tends to get overlooked come winter’s peak is your vehicle. Severe cold climates can negatively impact your car’s ability to operate safely, or at all for that matter. Since you cannot get around driving in the winter weather this season, you will have to learn how to protect your vehicle from such impacts.

Continue reading to review the top 5 car parts that are most affected by severe cold outdoor temperatures, and what you can do to prevent such automotive inconveniences.

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

How to Winter Can Impact Your Vehicle

➀ Car Tires

Every winter, your car tires usually deflate a little because when the air inside gets cold, it contracts, thus reducing air pressure. But in extreme cold temperatures, your tires can suddenly deflate, and fail to hold re-inflation for longer than a day or so. What can you do to prevent cold weather tire deflation? First, be sure to invest in quality car tires. There is a difference among all the brands and types of tires on the market. Second, be sure you are checking your tire pressure on a weekly basis, or more often if you drive long distances a lot.

➁ Car Battery

Extreme cold winter weather can also affect the electrolyte molecules inside your car battery. In fact, dead car batteries are so common in the winter, it is recommended to always have a set of jumper cables on hand in case your car battery runs out of juice while you are out and about. Although jumper cables are a great solution to a dead battery in the winter, they are only a temporary fix. To prevent your car battery from dying this winter, be sure you have a quality battery brand, and that you replace it every 3 to 4 years.

➂ Motor Oil

In the winter, at the peak when temperatures are the coldest, motor oil can thicken like molasses. This in turn causes many issues with the engine and overall operation of your car. When the oil is too viscous, the motor’s oil pump has trouble circulating it through the engine. To prevent your engine oil from becoming too thick this winter, simply switch to a low-viscosity oil for the season, between from 10W-30 to 5W-30, depending on how cold your region gets.

➃ Windshield Wipers

It has likely happened to you before, as it has happened to the best of us drivers; frozen windshield wiper fluid and wipers frozen to your windshield. This inconvenient duo of windshield wiper problems can be easily prevented by ensuring you opt for a winter set of windshield wipers that won’t crack or tear after freezing, and using a high quality windshield wiper fluid. Also, be sure to replace your wipers twice a year for optimal performance.

➄ LCD Display Screens

Liquid crystal display (LCD) screens are a common feature in modern make and model vehicles. From navigation and GPS, to DVD players and more, such devices have become an important part of our daily commutes. But in the winter, the freezing cold temperatures can cause the liquid crystals inside the display screen to slow down and behave sluggishly. To prevent a sluggish LCD screen this winter, consider installed an engine block heater. Otherwise, you must simply be patient and allow your car to warm up.

Luxury Auto Repair Service in Carmel, Indiana for European Vehicles

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.

Top British Car Brands of Today and Why

Posted on December 9, 2020 by Autohaus

There are various European cars on the market today; but for expert enthusiasts, nothing compares to the look and feel of a British car. With so many options to choose from, how can one decide which brand to select? If the vehicle is mean for collective purposes, then antiques and roadshows are the places to check out. For an everyday kind of ride, choosing a more modern make and model can be highly profitable after considering fuel mileage and the cost of gas.

Continue reading to catch up on some modern British car models that have become popular in the U.S., and where to get them serviced and repaired in Indianapolis.

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Bentley

Bentley’s are highly sophisticated cars, both inside and out. When it comes to aesthetics, it is obvious why a Bentley is a top choice for British car enthusiasts. The extent of craftsmanship and detail is astonishing; especially knowing it was entirely hand-crafted. The individually sewn fine leather seats, the integrated on-board systems, and countless other admirable features are just a few reasons why Bentley has made itself a staple in the British car market.

Popular make and models include the Bentley Continental GT or GTC, the Mulsanne, and the New Flying Spur. They come fully loaded with Bluetooth™, iPod™, MP3, and Apple compatibility and connectivity devices, rear seat entertainment systems, and more. Bentley’s are certainly a regal choice when it comes to choosing a favorite in the British car market.

Jaguar

Jaguar is another well-known British make and model vehicle most recently made infamous in the catchy Austin Powers movies. In real life, however, these cars are much more than a chic magnet. They are meticulously crafted pieces of art that have been admired since the first model was introduced in 1922. Although they didn’t start selling in the United States until the early 1940’s, Jaguars have been a very common preference in British car lines all over the country.

Popular Jaguar make and models include the Jaguar F-Type, Jaguar XF, Jaguar XJ, and the Jaguar XK. These particular models come expertly equipped with advanced power-train technologies, such as high-pressure direct fuel injection, variable camshaft timing (VCT), optimized air intakes, dynamic stability control (DSC), and more. Just like the Bentley, the Jaguar is certainly a part of the luxury British car line.

Other Popular British Car Models

There are several other British cars that have become more and more popular in the United States over the past 20 years. For example, the Land Rover, the Range Rover, and the Aston Martin are all commonly admired by European and British car aficionados all over the country. They are equivocally luxurious, convenient, and high-tech, as well as dependable and resolute. It is no wonder why British cars are so respected and revered.

Get European and British Auto Repair in Carmel, Indiana

Contact Autohaus Dierolf at 317-571-0800 to request a free estimate, or to schedule an appointment, for European auto repair and 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, including Jaguar, Bentley, Land Rover, and more. 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.

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.

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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

Routine Automotive Services Recommended Just for European Vehicles

Posted on September 14, 2020 by Autohaus

When it comes to auto repair and factory scheduled maintenance for European make and model vehicles, the practice is much similar to domestic make and model vehicles. Most automotive repair shops provide services for European automobiles, as well as, domestic make and model vehicles. If you own a European make and model vehicle, it is highly recommended to bring your unique, luxury car into an auto shop that specializes strictly in German and European automotive service. Continue reading to learn why.

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European Automotive Service

Choosing a certified and authentic European automotive repair shop is highly beneficial because German and European cars require a higher level of attention and care. These make and model vehicles are in the best care when in the hands of a European automotive enthusiast. Mechanics that specialize in German and European repair are almost always; otherwise they wouldn’t be in such a specific industry and repair and service.

When it comes to auto repair and service for European make and model vehicles, everything is nearly the same as domestic models. There are, however, exceptions to the rule depending on the parts and components of each individual vehicle. Some car owners have difficulty finding replacement parts for their European vehicles, leaving them no choice but to use alternative parts. Other European car owners may add aftermarket components and automotive parts that can make the repair and service process different. It’s hard to say why exceptions in mechanic will run into, and which parts require specialized care and attention.

✨ Commonly, a European car receives the same type automotive services as any other vehicle on the road.

European and German Car Maintenance

The most common and most recommended automotive services and factory scheduled maintenance for these types of vehicles include but are not limited to the following:

⛭ Factory Scheduled Maintenance
⛭ Brake Inspections
⛭ Tire Services
⛭ Oil Changes
⛭ Filter Changes
⛭ Engine Service and Inspections
⛭ Fluid Changes
⛭ Fuel System Services
⛭ Belts and Hoses
⛭ Tune-Ups
⛭ Radiator Repairs
⛭ Transmission Services
⛭ Auto Alignments
⛭ And More

As a European car owner, it is very important to keep up with your vehicle’s needs. This is especially for foreign and European make and model cars. Be sure to choose a reputable and accomplished German and European automotive repair shop that retains a staff of highly trained and licensed mechanics. They can advise you on all the recommended car services and factory scheduled maintenance for your vehicle, as well as, its specific needs.

Indianapolis European Automotive Specialists at Your Service

Most Reasonably Priced European Car Brands in 2020

Posted on August 27, 2020 by Autohaus

If you are yearning for a luxury vehicle, but not sure your bank account can cover a Bentley or Rolls Royce, skip the higher-priced British brands, and instead, try test driving some of the more affordable European ones! Just visit your local dealerships and online vendors to find the best deal on a new or used model!

In the meantime, continue reading to review the top 4 recommended European automotive brands on the market today.

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

Shop Top Luxury Cars on a Budget

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 four 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 pricy.

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.

Volkswagen

Volvo

Volvo is confused with Volkswagen a lot. They are, in fact, a Swedish automotive manufacturer. Their line includes a long list of sedans, coupes, trucks, SUV’s, and station wagons. Volvo’s are exceptional vehicles of high quality performance and manageability. They are widely known now for their collection of hybrid cars, flexi fuel models, and electric vehicles. This makes Volvo a great selection for someone who wants to help the environment.

After you choose the right European car for yourself, don’t trust just anyone with it, especially the over-priced dealership. Be sure to trust a German factory trained expert for all your factory scheduled maintenance and service needs!

Dealership-Level European Auto Repair and Service at Local Shop Prices

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.

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.