Best Mobile Mechanics Repair

Getting an instant price is just a few clicks away. Simply provide your car make and model, desired service, your location and we’ll provide you with a fair, transparent quote—before you schedule your service.

Our easy-to-understand quotes show the detailed cost of labor, parts, and taxes (if any). You’ll know exactly what’s included in your service so there are no surprises.

You’re always in control. If your mechanic discovers that your car doesn’t need all the services you requested, we’ll remove those services and lower your bill, right on the spot. If your car needs additional repair services, your mechanic will provide you with an itemized list of what you need. You can always decide to add or decline any additional services.

A1 MOBILE MECHANIC MINNEAPOLISS :

Oil Change Service

What is an oil change all about?

Engine oil is the lifeblood of the engine. The oil resides in the oil pan, which is under the car attached to the bottom of the engine. All internal (moving) parts of the engine need to be lubricated by the engine oil. Inadequate lubrication will cause the parts to wear out faster and eventually lead to engine failure. An oil filter keeps the oil clean and free of debris. If the filter is not replaced on a regular basis, it will get clogged and will not be able to pass oil into the engine.

Oil Change Service

Keep in mind :

• When the oil is changed you should always replace the oil filter.
• Replacement oil should always match the required specifications for your vehicle.
• After your oil has been changed, it’s a good idea to run the vehicle for a few minutes to make sure that there are no leaks.
• How it’s done:
• Remove and replace engine oil and filter.
• Check the condition of all fluids.
• Perform basic safety inspection.
• Start the vehicle and check for leaks in the system.

Our recommendation :

• It is best to follow the maintenance schedule provided by the manufacturer
• We recommend replacing the oil and filter every 5,000 miles or four months.
• Synthetic oil (versus regular) is cost effective. Its lubrication properties are better and you will not need oil changes as frequently.
• If you notice any fluids in your driveway, you should get your vehicle inspected immediately.
• Do not drive your car with low engine oil. It can severely damage the engine.
• What are the common symptoms indicating you need an oil change?
• The amount of time since your last oil change exceeds the recommended miles.
• Maintenance light is on.

How important is this service?

Regular oil changes are generally considered the most important maintenance service for your car. To avoid severe engine damage, this simple and inexpensive service should be regularly scheduled.

Pre-purchase Car Inspection Service

What does a pre-purchase inspection entail?

For your coenience, our mechanics go to the car owner’s location to inspect the car. The mechanic performs a standard 150-point inspection that includes a visual inspection of the fluids, body, brakes, cooling system, suspension, HVAC, tires, and overall external appearance. They do not put the car on a lift but may use floor jacks to raise up parts of the car as needed. The mechanic will also take photos of the exterior and interior.

The mechanic may scan the car’s various computers for trouble codes and test drive the vehicle if it’s safe, operational and the owner has been given permission. If the mechanic inspecting the car is not given permission to test drive the car or it is unsafe to test drive the car, the inspection will be completed without the road test portion. Tools used in the pre-purchase inspections are those needed to check the fluids, brakes, tires, batteries, and other parts of the vehicle.

 Pre-purchase Car Inspection

When are the mechanics available to inspect the car?

The mechanics are available 7 days a week from 7:00 am to 11:00 pm nationally You can book an appointment online anytime by selecting your location, car, and the pre-purchase inspection job. The specific availability of the mechanics in your area will appear after you request a quote.

Car buying advice from our expert mechanics

1. DO YOUR RESEARCH

It is important to do proper research on the car you’re considering. You’ll have tons of options when it comes to buying a car, so arm yourself with as much information as possible before you make a big decision. Websites like CarBuyingTips.com are great repositories of car buying information. When you find a car that piques your interest, determine that there are no major potential problems with it.

2. WHEN YOU MEET THE SELLER

Always test drive the car. Ask a lot of questions about the car including why the owner is selling it, and whether they have any service records showing regular maintenance. Do a visual inspection of the car’s exterior and interior to see that it is in an acceptable condition, and check for signs of accidents or damage.

During the test drive, listen for any strange noises coming from the car during acceleration or braking. Be sure to take the car out on a freeway to ensure it operates properly at high speeds. Test the brakes several times during the drive, braking both hard and normally to determine their responsiveness. Check the dashboard for any warning lights and make sure all the various controls (wipers, blinkers, radio, etc.) and the air conditioning system work.

3. THE VEHICLE PASSED YOUR INSPECTION—NOW HAVE A PROFESSIONAL LOOK IT OVER

If you like the car and it is in good condition, negotiate the price subject to the inspection of a professional mechanic. At this point you can enlist a professional mechanic to give his/her diagnosis of the condition of the car. The mechanic’s inspection will cover the fluids, brakes, electrical systems, cooling system, suspension, engine/exhaust, HVAC, tires, and body. The mechanic will scan the car’s various computers for trouble codes and test drive the vehicle. Should the mechanic discover any problems, he can estimate repair costs and you can use these for further negotiations with the seller. This way you can have complete peace of mind about the car you are buying.

Car is not starting Inspection Service

A car that fails to start is a rare occurrence in this age of greatly improved efficiency and reliability. But it still happens occasionally, and the advanced electronic technologies that have made cars better have also made the job of roadside diagnosis difficult, if not impossible, for even reasonably handy owners. One of our expert mobile mechanics can provide an expeditious diagnosis and provide a quote for any necessary repairs.

Common reasons for this to happen :

If the engine cranks, but the car doesn’t start:

• Bad fuel pump: A faulty fuel pump won’t deliver fuel to the engine, even if you’ve just filled up.
• Bad spark plugs: Without hot sparks to ignite the fuel charge in each cylinder, there is no combustion and no expansion of the burning mixture. Thus, the engine will not start.
• Bad timing belt : If the timing belt stretches or breaks, the engine will not run. Moreover, continuing to crank the engine may bring the valves into contact with the piston, causing serious engine damage.
• Bad ignition coil: Without a functional coil to step up the voltage, there can be no spark. No spark means no start.
• Faulty cam or crank sensor: If the sensors are faulty they will either provide no information to the ignition system, or will provide incorrect data. Either way, the engine will not fire.

If nothing happens after you turn the key :

• Bad battery or terminals: Batteries have a finite lifespan, and terminals can loosen or corrode.
• Bad starter: This should be obvious from the response to the key. If nothing happens at all when you turn the key, the starter may have reached the end of its life.
• Ignition problem: This could be due to faulty contacts in the ignition switch, or in the wiring.
• If there is a grinding noise when you turn the key:
• Starter is bad: Do not persist in cranking the engine.

What to expect :

A top-rated mobile mechanic will come to your home or office to determine the cause of your car’s failure to start through a series of diagnostic procedures. You will receive an upfront, fair and transparent estimate for the necessary repairs. The mechanic will book a follow-up appointment to perform the repairs and will bring the required parts and tools. All repairs are covered by our warranty.

 How it’s done :

The mechanic will check the ignition system, fuel system, and charging system, and then look for any mechanical damage. The mechanic may also try an alternative fuel source, like a quick shot of brake or carburetor cleaner into the throttle body, or a quick shot of liquid fuel via a vacuum line. If the car starts momentarily and then dies, that indicates that you have a fuel delivery issue.

How important is this service?

It goes without saying that a non-starting car is an important issue to address. Do not ignore or abandon the car if it’s not starting; this is an issue that should be dealt with promptly. Book a mechanic to perform a thorough diagnostic as soon as possible.

Oil Change Service

What is an oil change all about?

Engine oil is the lifeblood of the engine. The oil resides in the oil pan, which is under the car attached to the bottom of the engine. All internal (moving) parts of the engine need to be lubricated by the engine oil. Inadequate lubrication will cause the parts to wear out faster and eventually lead to engine failure. An oil filter keeps the oil clean and free of debris. If the filter is not replaced on a regular basis, it will get clogged and will not be able to pass oil into the engine.

Oil Change Service

Keep in mind :

• When the oil is changed you should always replace the oil filter.
• Replacement oil should always match the required specifications for your vehicle.
• After your oil has been changed, it’s a good idea to run the vehicle for a few minutes to make sure that there are no leaks.

How it’s done :

• Remove and replace engine oil and filter.
• Check the condition of all fluids.
• Perform basic safety inspection.
• Start the vehicle and check for leaks in the system.

Our recommendation :

• It is best to follow the maintenance schedule provided.
• We recommend replacing the oil and filter every 5,000 miles or four months.
• Synthetic oil (versus regular) is cost effective. Its lubrication properties are better and you will not need oil changes as frequently.
• If you notice any fluids in your driveway, you should get your vehicle inspected immediately.
• Do not drive your car with low engine oil. It can severely damage the engine.
• What are the common symptoms indicating you need an oil change?
• The amount of time since your last oil change exceeds the recommended miles.
• Maintenance light is on.

 How important is this service?

Regular oil changes are generally considered the most important maintenance service for your car. To avoid severe engine damage, this simple and inexpensive service should be regularly scheduled.

Brake Pad Replacement Service

What are brake pads and how do they work?

Brake pads consist of friction material that is bonded to a sturdy steel backing plate. When you push on the brake pedal, the friction material on the brake pads is forced against the inner and outer surfaces of the steel brake rotor under tremendous pressure. The resulting friction causes the wheels on your car to slow rapidly allowing for a quick, safe and controlled stop. After thousands of miles, this friction material eventually wears away, and the brake rotor wears away as well, requiring replacement.

Brakes-Service

When to replace brake pads?

Here are several indications that you need new brake pads :

• Wear indicator on vehicle dashboard. When the friction material on the brake pads is worn to within 2 mm of the pad backing plate, replacement of the pads is necessary. Most newer cars today have electronics built into the brake pad. When the pad is at a point that it needs to be replaced, a symbol will appear on your vehicle dashboard’s instrument cluster. Consult your owner’s manual to learn what the symbol looks like.
• High pitched squeal when braking. When the friction material on the pads is worn close to the backing plate, you may hear a squealing or squeaking noise as you drive regardless of whether you are applying the brakes or not. That squealing or squeaking noise is designed to make you aware that the brake pads are getting low and need to be inspected. If all of the friction material on the brake pad has been worn away, you will hear grinding and scraping noises when you apply the brakes. Pad replacement is mandatory at this point and the vehicle is unsafe to drive until corrected.
• Brake pedal pulsation or vehicle vibration. Over time, brake rotors may develop excessive thickness variation (>.001 inches), excessive runout on the wheel hub (> .002 inches), or the brake rotor may warp due to high operating temperatures. If these defects exist, you may notice pulsation in the brake pedal or steering wheel during braking. New pads and rotor resurfacing or replacement will be required if the rotor has any of the above-mentioned deficiencies.
• Vehicle pulling or wandering on braking. If your car pulls to the right or left during braking, that could be a sign of a sticking brake caliper, misalignment of the suspension, and sometimes tire defects or uneven tire inflation from side-to-side. The mechanic who inspects your vehicle will determine if new brake pads alone will resolve the issue or if other repairs are needed.
• High mileage on existing pads. Regardless of whether any of the above brake system symptoms occur, every 10,000 miles a mechanic should measure the thickness of the remaining friction material on the brake pads and perform a thorough visual inspection of the braking system.
• Brake system warning lights and/or maintenance reminder messages. Should your brake system warning light ever illuminates, or a brake system related maintenance reminder message appears in the driver information display, have your vehicle inspected and repaired as soon as possible.

How do mechanics replace brake pads?

Normally, pad replacement requires these steps :

• Confirm the thickness of the remaining friction material on the brake pads. If the remaining friction material is less than 2 mm in thickness, pad replacement is warranted.
• Visually inspect the brake rotor surface that contacts the pad (for scoring, pitting, grooves, rust) and measure the brake rotor with precision tools for thickness variation, run-out and warpage.
• Inspect the caliper, torque plate, pads, and rotors to determine if the caliper is operating freely (i.e., inspect for stuck calipers).
• Install new pads and any additional recommended components (e.g., rotors, if rotors depart from OEM specifications) only with customer approval of course.
• Lubricate brake system components, such as caliper sliding pins, and inspect the condition of the brake fluid. Top off brake fluid as required.
• Perform a basic 50 point safety inspection of your vehicle.
• Finally, the mechanic will test drive your vehicle to confirm normal operation of the brake system.

Is it safe to drive with a brake pad problem?

Driving a vehicle with a known deficiency in the braking system is unsafe and consequently is not recommended. Worn out brake pads can increase stopping distances and so for your safety, it is always advised that worn out brake pads be replaced promptly. Further driving is not recommended and you should request service at your earliest coenience if any of the following circumstances exist: stopping distances are much greater than what you are accustomed to; the brake pedal is not firm or is low; there is loss of braking power assist; the vehicle pulls severely to one side on braking; or the brake system warning light is on.

If you detect unusual noises, such as squealing or grinding, but stopping distances are close to what you are used to, and the brake pedal is firm, and there are no warning lights, it may be safe to proceed to your destination but schedule service at your earliest coenience. When it comes to the brakes on your vehicle, always err on the side of caution and have a mechanic check your brake pads and braking system at the first indication of a problem.

When replacing brake pads keep in mind :

Brake pads must always be replaced as a set, that is both wheels (driver and passenger side) on an axle, front or rear, must be serviced. If brake pads on only one side of the car were replaced, your car might pull to one side when you apply the brakes. Often, resurfacing or replacement of the brake rotors is necessary and a competent mechanic will always measure for wear and damage to the brake rotors and advise you as to whether rotor replacement or re-surfacing is needed.

Timing Belt Replacement Service

What is a timing belt and how does it work?

An engine timing belt is a fiber reinforced, toothed drive belt manufactured using durable compounds such as highly saturated nitrile. The timing belt allows the crankshaft to drive the camshafts in the cylinder head at half the RPMs of the crankshaft. The camshafts then open and close the engine’s intake and exhaust valves in time with the movement and position of the pistons in the engine.

Timing Belt

When to replace the timing belt?

Every 60k-90k miles. If an engine is equipped with a timing belt, the timing belt must be replaced at the service interval specified by the vehicle manufacturer regardless of whether or not any problem is visible, typically in the range of 60,000 to 90,000 miles. Your vehicle owner’s manual should state the specific service interval.

Engine stops abruptly or will not start. Occasionally, timing belts can break, or skip, while the engine is running.

Rough engine operation. The molded, reinforced teeth on the timing belt engage gears on the crankshaft and camshafts. After many tens of thousands of miles, the teeth can wear or break, or the belt can stretch, thus causing the belt to jump position on the crankshaft or camshaft gears. Should the belt jump, the engine will run poorly and perhaps not at all.

Banging or clanking engine noise. On some engines, if the timing belt has jumped, the pistons and valves can collide and there will be noise and damage. These engine designs are referred to as interference engines. If your car has an interference engine, replacing the timing belt according to the maintenance schedule will minimize the chance that a belt failure will cause engine damage.

How do mechanics replace the timing belt?

Engine designs vary, and thus the replacement procedure will vary, but broadly, the procedure is as follows :

• Disconnect the battery ground cable.
• Once the engine is cold, set the crankshaft to top dead center with the number one piston on the compression stroke. Remove crankshaft pulley.
• Remove all accessories interfering with the removal of the timing belt covers.
• Remove timing belt covers. Lock camshafts, as required, and note position of camshaft timing marks. Remove timing belt tensioner and idler pulleys. Remove timing belt.
• If replacing the water pump, do so at this time, and of course drain the cooling system first. If the engine cooling system thermostat is only accessible with water pump replacement, the thermostat should be replaced as well.
• Installation of the new timing belt includes all of the above steps, performed in reverse, following strict guidelines to assure camshaft and crankshaft (and balancing shaft, if equipped) are in perfect alignment after tensioner has been set.
• Upon completion of the installation, the engine crankshaft is turned by hand 720 degrees and the correct position of the timing marks on the crankshaft and the camshafts is confirmed.
• The vehicle is road tested to confirm normal operation and a service sticker is affixed to the engine noting the date of belt replacement and the vehicle mileage.

Is it safe to drive with a timing belt problem?

No, were a worn-out timing belt to snap while underway, perhaps on a highway, it creates a risk of complete loss of engine power while surrounded by fast moving vehicles. Once your vehicle has reached the recommended replacement mileage for the belt, you can eliminate the risk of sudden and unexpected timing belt breakage by having it replaced. If your engine is of the interference type, it is especially important to replace the belt according to the maintenance schedule because sudden breakage of the timing belt, while the engine is running, will likely cause significant damage to internal engine components such as the valves and pistons.

When replacing the timing belt keep in mind :

An interference engine should be carefully inspected before a broken timing belt is replaced because it may have sustained damage that will have to be repaired prior to installing a new belt.

The timing belt system includes idler pulleys and a belt tensioner. These components should be replaced along with the belt.

On some cars, the timing belt drives the engine’s water pump. Mechanics will usually recommend replacing the water pump at the same time that the timing belt is replaced.

Car Battery Replacement Service

What are car batteries and how do they work?

A car battery is an energy storage device that relies on a chemical reaction within the battery to produce electricity. The stored electrical energy is used to initially operate the starter motor, ignition system, and fuel system on your vehicle. Once your car engine is running, the alternator supplies the electricity needed for all vehicle systems and charges the battery to replace the electric energy used when starting a car.

Most electric vehicles have a traction battery which is in addition to the standard 12 volt battery that is used to start the car engine. Traction batteries also coert chemical energy to supply electrical energy but operate at higher voltages and often are monitored by the PCM (Powertrain Control Module).

Battery

When to replace a car battery?

Your car doesn’t start. A new battery has a specified capacity to provide power. This capacity is referred to as the cranking amps rating of the battery. As a battery ages, the actual amps that a battery can supply becomes lower than its original rating Once the cranking amps fall below a critical threshold, it will be difficult or impossible to start your car.

Battery or charging system warning light is illuminated. Should a battery or charging system warning light illuminate, a mechanic should perform a few basic tests to determine if a battery replacement is needed.

Electrical components don’t work. Once a battery has started to fail, and the voltage produced by the battery drops, then vehicle electrical components can malfunction, such as the security system. If you are experiencing electrical malfunctions, it’s a smart idea to have the battery tested.

How do mechanics replace the battery?

• A temporary power source might be installed to avoid the possibility of losing radio presets or stored data in the PCM while the battery is out. When the battery is already completely dead, this step is unnecessary.
• The vehicle’s negative cable is removed from the battery, followed by the positive cable. The battery tie down system is loosened and the old battery removed.
• Cable ends and wiring are carefully inspected to ensure cleanliness and no corrosion. In some cases, corrosion can be extreme and the cable may need to be replaced or wiring repaired.
• The new battery is installed and the tie down system is reinstalled. Anti-corrosion compound is applied to the battery terminals. The positive terminal is reconnected followed by the negative terminal.
• Some vehicles, for example some models of BMW, VW, and Audi, may require PCM programming to input battery parameters. This step, performed using a specialized scan tool, is necessary to maximize battery life and prevent electrical system malfunctions.
• The car is started and charging system output is measured and compared against the factory OEM specification to ensure that the new battery will properly recharge. Generally, charging output will be in the range of 13.8 to 14.8 volts but the exact specifications vary by make and model.

Is it safe to drive with a battery problem?

Yes, but if you have a weak battery you might be left stranded somewhere if the battery dies completely and you cannot start your car. A faulty battery may also needlessly overload the alternator and could adversely affect the operation of the vehicle’s electrical system, including the vehicle security system and the shift interlock.

When replacing the battery keep in mind :

• The quality of the electrical connections to the battery posts is important. Connections must be clean, free of corrosion and properly tightened.
• Batteries store a large amount of energy and if short-circuited a battery could explode and can create intense discharges that can damage your eyesight. Insulated tools should be used to attach cabling to battery terminals. Otherwise, the battery’s positive cable can be shorted to ground or the positive and negative posts can be directly shorted. Batteries can only be safely installed from a positive terminal to positive wiring and from a negative terminal to body ground. If the polarity is reversed damage will likely occur to the vehicle’s electrical system.
• Generally, a car battery will have a service life of 4 to 7 years. If a load test on a battery reveals a significant reduction in the capacity of the battery to provide power, you should buy a new battery rather than wait for the old battery to fail completely.
• Batteries should only be disconnected if the engine is off and the alternator is not running. Disconnecting a car battery while the alternator is running can cause a voltage spike that will damage sensitive electronic components in the vehicle, such as the PCM.

Car Starter Repair Service

What’s a car starter motor and how does it work?

The starter motor is a powerful, compact electric motor that will turn a car’s engine over at about 200 RPM in order to start the engine. The starter is at the terminus of a circuit that includes the battery, the ignition switch, a neutral safety switch, relays and fuses.

When you turn the ignition key to start, or press the start button in some vehicles, the starter circuit is completed and the starter will run. Most starters have a small pinion gear that engages a larger ring gear on the flywheel when the starter is powered on. The pinion gear turns the engine flywheel at about 200 RPM. Since the flywheel is directly connected to the crankshaft, all engine components will then turn in sync and the engine starts.

Starter

When to replace the starter?

Starters are relatively durable but most will eventually fail in one or more of the following ways:

• Intermittent operation of the starter. Starters can develop bad spots on the armature which will cause intermittent operation. This causes the starter to work sometimes and other times when you turn the key nothing happens.
• Starter turns too slowly. Internal electrical and mechanical faults can cause the starter to draw too much current and in some cases the current drawn will exceed what the battery can supply. A consequence is the engine may not start as rapidly.
• Unusual noises on starting. If you hear any type of grinding or other unusual noise while starting the engine, that should be iestigated as the noise could reflect an internal starter failure or the noise could be due to pinion gear failure or flywheel ring gear damage.
• Starter doesn’t function when turning the key. In some cases, the first symptom of a starter malfunction is a complete failure of the starter motor. This happens when you turn the ignition key to start the car, the starter motor does not function at all.

When replacing a faulty starter keep in mind :

• Prior to replacing the starter, simple diagnostic tests should be performed to ensure that the problem is a faulty starter versus a weak battery, faulty neutral start switch, or other faulty electrical component in the starter motor circuit.
• Starters draw large amounts of current from the battery, much more than any other electrically powered device in your car. This makes it important that the electrical connections to the battery are inspected, cleaned, and tightened as necessary. Cables to the starter should also be inspected for corrosion and replaced as needed.

Alternator Repair Service

How does an alternator help your car run?

The alternator is the component that charges the battery in your car. When you use electrical components in your car (stereo, lights, etc.), the battery loses power. The alternator recharges the battery, replenishing the lost battery power. The alternator is located in the engine compartment. If the alternator is not working properly, your car will only stay running for as long as the battery has power stored. Once the battery loses power, your car will not start. Normally, a malfunctioning alternator will turn on the battery warning light or will have a low volt gauge reading.

Alternator

Before repairing the alternator :

The mechanic should check the entire charging system before installing a new alternator, including checking battery cables for corrosion and the condition of the battery.

Steps when replacing an alternator :

• Inspect entire charging system (battery, cables, alternator).
• Inspect the drive belts.
• Test alternator output.
• Remove and replace alternator if found to be faulty.
• Re-test alternator output.

Our recommendation for alternator replacements :

Ask your mechanic to inspect the condition of the charging system during every major service. The mechanic should also clean and tighten the battery cables during every major service.

What common symptoms indicate you may need to replace the Alternator?

• Dead battery or battery will not hold a charge.
• Dim lights.
• Battery warning light is on.

Why repairing your alternator is important?

Your alternator charges your battery, which powers the electronics in your vehicle, such as the radio and the air conditioning. The battery is also needed to turn on your vehicle.  A malfunctioning alternator will not charge your car’s battery, and your vehicle will eventually run out of battery life and not be able to start.

Serpentine/Drive Belt Replacement Service

What is a serpentine belt and how does it work?

A serpentine belt is a relatively long, flat, multi-ribbed belt that is driven by the engine’s crankshaft pulley. The belt drives many, and often all, of the engine accessories such as the alternator, air conditioning compressor, power steering pump, water pump, and air pump. The serpentine belt is tensioned by a hydraulic or spring-loaded automatic tensioner. Some older cars use a serpentine belt to drive most accessories but will also have a shorter v-style belt to drive, for example, the power steering pump.

When to consider replacing the serpentine belt :

• Regularly scheduled maintenance. Typically, belt manufacturers recommend belt replacement at 90,000 miles. However, the belt must be inspected for wear or damage at regular intervals prior to this high mileage.
• Squealing noise, belt slippage, visible belt damage. Should the belt fail or wear out prematurely, you may hear noise or you may see visible signs of deterioration such as missing chunks of rubber, excessive cracking, or a shredded appearance on the edge of the belt.
• Battery Light. A loose belt, perhaps caused by a defective tensioner, may not drive the alternator at adequate speed and thus the battery may discharge, causing the warning light to illuminate.
• Engine overheating. Often, the serpentine belt drives the water pump. In those applications, if the belt breaks the engine will overheat in seconds to minutes. If the belt is inadequately tensioned, you may notice higher-than-normal engine operating temperature.

Spark Plug Replacement Service

What are spark plugs and how do they work?

Spark plugs are one of the key components of your vehicle’s ignition system. They ignite gasoline and air inside of your engine. This gives your engine the power to propel you down the road. The spark plug takes high voltage electricity from the ignition coil and creates a spark at just right moment during the engine’s combustion cycle. This gives the engine the best mix of power, fuel economy and low emissions. However, the electrode at the end of the spark plug eventually wears out and can cause performance issues.

When should you replace spark plugs?

Replacement should follow the vehicle maintenance schedule. This will be listed in the vehicle’s owner’s manual. Some cars require regular replacement at 30k, 60k or 100k miles. It is possible in some cases that a spark plug might fail before the service schedule, but it’s not typically common.

Avoiding spark plug replacement can cause:

• Difficulty starting your car.
• Check engine light for a misfire code.
• Flashing check engine light during acceleration for misfire, this can cause engine damage.
• Reduced fuel economy and/or power.
• Rough idle and/or unexplained engine vibration.
• Failed State emission testing.

Even if only one spark plug is found to be faulty, they should always be replaced in sets. Most engines will require 4,6, or 8 spark plugs.

Water Pump Replacement Service

What is a water pump and how does it work?

The water pump is a belt or chain-driven engine accessory bolted to the engine above the crankshaft pulley. The pump housing has an impeller that circulates engine coolant through the cooling system passageways in the engine block and cylinder head, on to the radiator, where the coolant temperature is reduced. . The lower temperature coolant then flows back to the water inlet on the engine and the water pump continues the cycle.

When to consider replacing the water pump :

• Coolant leaks or overheating. The water pump impeller shaft is supported by a bearing. Eventually, the bearing or seal can wear and leak or damage the impeller. Many water pumps have weep holes near the pump bearing. If you see significant leakage from that weep hole, it is time to replace the pump.
• Bearing roughness or noise. If the water pump shaft does not turn smoothly or the pump is noisy, the bearing is excessively worn. Pump replacement will be necessary.
• Timing belt replacement. In engines where the water pump is driven by the timing belt, it is a good idea to replace the water pump at the same time the timing belt is replaced. The extensive work explains why it is always recommended to replace the water pump whenever the mechanic already has these components removed for regularly scheduled timing belt replacement.

Car Radiator Replacement Service

What is the Radiator all about?

The radiator performs a critical function; it keeps the engine from overheating. While running, the engine produces heat. Coolant flowing through the system absorbs and removes extra heat from the engine. The coolant then passes through the radiator where it cools off and is later circulated back to the engine to absorb heat again.

A radiator has two tanks that are connected to each other through aluminum or brass tubes. When the coolant passes through these tubes, the radiator cooling fan blows air across the radiator to lower the temperature of the coolant. The tank is usually made of plastic, and it is common for it to crack and start leaking coolant. If the tank or the tubes crack, coolant will leak , the vehicle will overheat and could cause severe engine damage. Radiators also tend to clog over time. When this occurs, not enough coolant flows through the radiator leading to heat build-up, causing the engine to overheat.

Radiator

Keep in mind :

• When replacing the radiator, it is best to also replace the radiator cap and thermostat.
• After your radiator is replaced, it is best to have it checked for leaks, to assure that everything is in working order.
• When the radiator is replaced, the entire cooling system should be checked, especially the radiator hoses.

How it’s done :

• Inspect radiator for leaks.
• Pressure test cooling system.
• Remove and replace the radiator.
• Fill radiator with proper mixture of 50/50 coolant.
• Recheck for leaks.

Our recommendation :

Follow the service maintenance schedule provided by the manufacturer to get the coolant replaced at regular intervals. It is a good practice to change the coolant every 25,000-40,000 miles. Replacing the coolant will ensure it is free of contaminants such as rust or scale that can block it from flowing through the radiator and engine. Given high engine temperatures, it is inevitable that the tanks in the radiator will eventually crack. The thermostat should be replaced when replacing the radiator as well as any necessary radiator hoses. The system should also be flushed out of all old coolant to remove any contamination.

What common symptoms indicate you may need to replace the Radiator?

• Car is overheating.
• Coolant (red, yellow, green fluid) is leaking.

How important is this service?

If a defective radiator is not replaced, the overheating of the engine can potentially lead to serious internal engine damage.

Valve Cover Gasket Replacement Service

What is a valve cover gasket and how does it work?

Each cylinder head on your car’s engine has an aluminum or plastic valve cover bolted to it. Between this valve cover and the cylinder head, there is a gasket that keeps engine oil from leaking out. The valve cover bolts keep the gasket compressed, thus preventing leaks. Over time the gasket becomes brittle from the engine’s heat or the bolts loosen, creating an engine oil leak.

When to consider replacing a valve cover gasket?

Look for these signs of oil leakage at the valve cover gasket :

• Oil seepage or dripping. Should the joint between the valve cover and the cylinder head fail, oil often becomes visible on the valve cover or cylinder heads. Usually, the oil will attract and hold dirt.
• Oil accumulating inside the spark plug well. The spark plug tube seals are part of the valve cover sealing system. If the tube seals are leaking, you will see oil on the spark plugs or wires. The valve cover gasket and tube seals are all replaced at one time if either fails.
• Oil leakage at the rubber grommets. The bolts holding the valve cover to the cylinder head sometimes have rubber grommet seals under the bolt heads. If these seals are leaking, you will see oil seepage around the bolt heads.

Car Thermostat Replacement Service

What is an engine cooling system thermostat and how does it work?

The car’s engine cooling system thermostat is a small valve within a cooling system passageway that opens and closes in response to the temperature of the circulating engine coolant. When your car is first started and the coolant is cold, the valve in the thermostat will be in the closed position, circulating the coolant flow only within the engine instead of flowing to the radiator, which allows the engine to warm up fast, promoting fuel efficiency, low emissions, and reduced engine deposits. Once the engine coolant reaches the design temperature, usually around 195 degrees, the valve will open and close as you drive in order to maintain a coolant temperature typically between 195 to 225 degrees Fahrenheit.

Thermostat

When to consider replacing the engine cooling system thermostat :

• Engine overheats. A thermostat with the valve stuck closed is a common cause of engine overheating. However, since there are other causes of overheating, a mechanic will thoroughly inspect the cooling system prior to condemning the thermostat. Since it is usually not known how badly the engine overheated, the mechanic will also try to determine if there is evidence that the cylinder head gasket was blown. If so, it would be repaired prior to replacing the thermostat.
• Temperature gauge reads too low or too high. Thermostats can get sticky, causing the engine temperature to stray from the optimal range. Your dash-mounted temperature gauge will notify you of this malfunction.

Cooling system repairs. All thermostats eventually fail. Therefore, if the cooling system is already open for major repairs, such as water pump or radiator replacement, it is recommended to install a new thermostat simply as insurance against future breakdown.

MOBILE MECHANIC COST AND PRICING

The average hourly rate of a mobile mechanic varies based on many factors:

• Experience and skill
• Reputation
• Certifications and licensing
• Length of time in business

Though you will read that the cost of a mobile mechanic is usually less than a traditional mechanic working in a garage or repair shop, that is not always true. For instance, not all mobile mechanics are self-employed, and the cost of employment is then calculated into the hourly rate, bumping it a bit higher.

Cost of mobile mechanic services for typical tasks 

As we have already learned, the cost of any mobile mechanic services depends on several factors, including the type of vehicle, the age of the car, the location, time of day and the type (and extent) of work required. We’ve reviewed recent prices for mobile mechanic services to give you approximate price guides for each.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How much does a mobile mechanic cost?

A standard hourly rate for mobile mechanics in Australia is anywhere from $30-$100/hour or more. It varies widely based on a long list of possible factors, including everything from skill and expertise to the vehicle’s location and the complexity of the project.

Does it cost more to get repairs at a standard “brick and mortar” garage?

It depends, but you will find that most mobile mechanic fees end up being more per hour than a standard garage. However, the coenience of service when and where you need it, along with having the full attention of a dedicated service provider, is often an adequate counterbalance to the higher hourly wage.

Do you save money by purchasing your parts and materials?

Yes, you purchase parts or materials without any mark-up fee, which can easily translate to savings. Still, your regular mobile mechanic may also offer you parts and materials at a lower rate than a regular garage. It is best to always ask for a quote with parts and one without parts.

Can a mobile mechanic offer a warranty on parts and labor?

They can and should, and as it is something you would get from a regular garage, you’ll want a warranty in writing. Just be sure you make a note of it as you build your task listing.

How Do I Get A Car Repair Estimate?

What Should an auto repair cost? Unless you’re a mechanic or an expert on fixing your vehicle yourself, you probably don’t have a clue about car repair prices. Not to worry. Building on our 90 years of pricing experience, Kelley Blue Book has the Fair Repair Range to show you what car repairs should cost. You can even get an auto repair quote from a local service center or auto shop.

Tell us what your car needs – brake repair, battery replacement, radiator repair, transmission repair – and we’ll give you a free estimate.

What’s better for auto repairs – dealer vs mechanic?

What are the pros and cons of considering a dealer vs mechanic for your next car repairs?

Dealer:

Familiarity: The dealer is the expert on the brand and the specifics of your vehicle. Certain repairs – like tire rotation or oil change – are pretty universal but dealerships are always receiving new technical bulletins or specialized training from the automaker. Plus they’ve probably seen the repair – on a car like yours – before. If an independent auto shop only repairs one or two brands, this might not be a concern. But if your mechanic services all makes, models and years, that’s a lot of knowledge to keep straight.

Speed: Dealerships usually have more technicians and more repair bays operating at once, which can save you time. Speed also comes from familiarity. A dealership can often target the problem immediately, where an independent mechanic might need a little more time to figure it out.

Access: Most dealerships have common parts in stock or readily available.

Comfort: Dealerships usually have a large waiting area with amenities like comfy chairs, snacks & coffee and a TV set tuned to the local news. They’re also far more likely to offer a loaner car or courtesy shuttle so you’re not stranded.

Warranty coverage: When a vehicle is newer, warranty repairs have to happen at the dealer. And certain parts might also have a different warranty depending on whether they’re the “genuine” parts or not.

Independent Mechanic:

Relationships: A lot of people prefer to build a rapport with one person. Trust is important for every business relationship. And an independent mechanic is first and foremost loyal to you, not the manufacturer he or she works for.

Direct access: At a dealership, you talk to a service advisor who passes the info on to a technician. At a smaller auto shop, you’re probably speaking directly with the person under the hood.

What are the most common car repairs?

According to internal Kelley Blue Book data based on actual repair records, the most common auto repairs are :

• Car Battery Replacement
• Brake Service
• Radiator Repair
• Transmission Repair
• Air Conditioning Repair
• Wheel Alignment
• Muffler Repair
• Paint and Car Scratches

And, of course, you also need to factor in maintenance items like oil change, tire rotations, air filter change, and spark plug replacement.