Summer Auto Maintenance: Preparing for the Back to School Rush

by Dennis, Cars for Keeps Customer Service Manager

As much as we dread the end of summer, it's just around the corner, and that means kids will be going back to school. Back to school bring sports, field trips, ect. - let the craziness begin!

With all the events going on during the fall season, August is the time to make sure that mom or dad’s vehicle, (or taxi, as I lovingly call it at that time of year) is up to it new task.

Safety and reliability is the key. From fluid checks to standard maintenance, this is the time to get a head start - leaving one less thing for you to worry about once the frantic back to school rush begins.

Whether Cars for Keeps is your auto service garage or not, I encourage you to take advantage this opportunity of getting the family vehicle maintained before the hussel and bussel of school time.

Why does your family vehicle need to be maintained?

In the heat of summer, vehicle systems work very hard. Systems which take the most strain are the electrical system, cooling system, transmission, air conditioning and all of the fluids. The heat of running during how Michigan summers can make any of these systems weak, and a lack of maintenance can cause them to break down.

In Michigan we mostly think of the cold being the biggest factor, but the heat is
just as bad. So take a few hours in the afternoon to pamper your vehicle with a basic tune up and fluid flush. You - and your hectic schedule - will be glad you did!

So long for now,
Your Friendly neighborhood Service Manager,
Dennis

2005 Acura TL in Milwaukee Acura Dealer, WI 53045 - SOLD

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Buying a Used Car Part Wisely!

Each time you want to buy a used car part, insist on a great deal. Don't think you will count on luck though - no way. There are a few things you need to do for making sure you don't end up with a bitter deal.

Spend a little time now to save you serious money in the future. Make sure to check on Consumer Reports on the safest car parts out there. Appearance is one thing, but safety takes the priority.

Use a credible car yard shop and find out if you can bring the car for on-site fitting. Ask what cars they normally repair most frequently. Get details about the scope of inspection and, how long it takes, including the price. Have this information written as a precaution.

After car part inspection, get a written report with all costs involved for repairs. Also the vehicle's make, model and VIN must be mentioned in the report. Read through every single small print and where in doubt seek for clarification. Your final offer should be based on the estimates if you ever decide to bargain for the car.

Why you should not buy used part from an individual?

Individuals or private sellers are not covered by the Used Car Rule. They also do not have to use the Buyers Guide. But, you can rely on the Guide's list of an auto's major systems to do your shopping. Do not be enticed by the outside look of the used car part, instead depend on the inspection by an approved mechanic.

A private sale is likely to be on an as is basis, the only exception is when your purchase agreement with the seller states otherwise. If a written contract exists, the seller has to live up to their full responsibility. Consider the manufacturer's warranty or any other purchase contracts. The issue is whether these warranty and service contracts are transferable or not. Prior to the car part purchase, enquire if it's still under warranty or service contract.

How to Replace Rear Brake Pads : About Cleaning Brake Parts

Learn why its important to clean the brake parts when changing out the brake pads on a car with expert automotive tips in this free online auto repair and car maintenance video clip. Expert: Mark Blocker Bio: Mark Blocker is a semi-retired ASE-certified master mechanic with more than 20 years of automotive experience. Filmmaker: Daron Stetner

A Woman's Point of View: Telephones & Technology

by Colette Cooley, Cars for Keeps Office Manager

I just bought an Evo Android cell phone. Wow! It is a phone, but so much more. It’s a computer that is synchronized to my home computer, a GPS that has made my not-that-old Garmin obsolete, a Kindle reader, a hot-spot device that can hook up my laptop when no Wi-Fi is around, a still camera, a video camera, a voice recorder, an appointment calendar with sound reminders, a weather station, a conference center with live video, an office center, and on, and on. I have only had it for four days and am still finding stuff.

With all that amazing technology in my pocket I sit at my computer station at work and talk on a corded telephone. And guess what? The person I am talking to hears me perfectly and is not bothered with me going through the dreaded “dead zones.” That says a lot about sticking to the basics in some areas of your life.

We live in an exciting technological time in history. We just acquired a new scanner at Cars For Keeps. That sounds kind of mundane but actually it is pretty cool. Every year cars are coming out with more electronics and more sophisticated computers, and car repair facilities have to keep up with the means to diagnose problems. Our mechanics feel more like ‘doctors for cars’ than ever before.

When you think about it, the similarities are close. Diagnose, operate, treat, recover and send on its way all well again. That makes everyone at Cars For Keeps very happy.

1987 Z31 Rear Brake Caliper Loose

1987 Z31 N/A Rear Passenger side brake loose. Bottom sliding pin tight, but upper bolt is obviously loose. Can tighten the bolt but it never stops spinning.

When Should You Visit a Transmission Repair Specialist?

Most people drive their cars every day but still don't know how they work. Sometimes drivers will even ignore obvious problems with their vehicles, hoping they will go away on their own or that it isn't something serious. Only when the car stops working altogether do they visit a mechanic in a panic! Issues with a car's transmission can mean serious problems down the road if they are not attended to quickly.

In layman's terms, a transmission transfers the power created by the engine to the drive line and wheels: this can be done either manually (as with a stick shift) or automatically.

Here are some of the symptoms of transmission problems and how to know when it's time to visit a transmission repair specialist.

-- Problems shifting gears: since the transmission's job is to keep up the momentum of the car by shifting gears, it stands to reason that any problems with gear change may be stemming from the transmission. The symptoms could be an unusual noise made by the transmission during a shift, or, if you drive a stick, it may not glide smoothly between gears.

-- The car makes a jerking movement or the engine surges at inopportune times. The jerking movement could indicate that the engine's power is not being smoothly transferred when a shift needs to occur.

-- Transmission fluid is leaking. Transmission fluid acts as a lubricant for all of the moving parts inside your car's transmission. Just as the engine cannot run right without oil, the transmission will not work right without fluid. Transmission fluid is generally reddish in color, so if you see any on the ground under your chassis, get help right away before a costly disaster happens.

-- The car won't move. If your car starts up ok, it just refuses to move, the problem is likely to be with the transmission. You'll need to have it towed to a shop where their mechanics can advise you on what to do next.

All car drivers should have a working knowledge of how their vehicle works and what the symptoms are for certain problems that may arise. If you suspect your transmission is to blame, take it to a mechanic: it does not necessarily mean it has to be replaced. The problem may just be a minor one; but one thing's for sure: transmissions do not fix themselves!

Is Your Mobile Car Washer Environmentally Friendly Or Do You Even Care?

Many people who go to work each day, have a mobile car wash service, or a little mobile detailing company come to their office each week and to wash everyone's cars. It is true that during the recession fewer people are getting their cars washed, but the mobile car wash guy still comes around each week, and for a reasonable price will clean your car.

However, have you ever asked yourself if your mobile car washer is environmentally friendly are not?

The reason I ask you this question is so many companies these days are into being a green company, or a sustainable enterprise. In fact, many companies are trying to figure out ways to use alternative energy in their businesses, recycle, and replace their light bulbs in order to save energy. That's wonderful, but what about your vendors, or even the mobile car washer that comes by each week to your parking lot; is he environmentally friendly also?

The reality is that a good number of these mobile services are not environmentally friendly. They are not using the proper types of soaps, and detergents to clean the cars, and they are allowing their waste wash water affluent to flow into the storm drain. You may not think this is a big deal, and perhaps washing one car isn't. But you must also consider that many of the brake pads have asbestos on them, and when they clean the rims, heavy metals go into the storm drain.

Is your mobile detailer blocking off the storm drain to stop the flow of water while washing your car?

Where is all that dirty water going to; do you even care? If you say you care, but you do nothing about it you are a hypocrite, and if you don't really care, which is probably the reality because you are letting this occur, then all your other environmental sustainability, and green company propaganda is ridiculous. I hope you will please consider this.

Michigan Road Trip Ideas: Traveling the Great Lakes State!

by Marjorie, Cars for Keeps Social Media Manager

This time of year, the shop sees plenty of vacationers passing through who are experiencing car troubles of one kind or the other. While we're sorry for these customers' troubles, it's always a pleasure to hear about their destinations and road trip adventures. It reminds us of how many beautiful places there are to visit right here on Michigan's West coast.

It also reminds us that pre-road trip repairs and maintenance can save vacationers unwanted headaches!

Ok, that was our sales pitch for this post.

It's the season of summer road trips, and veteran Michigan residents know that there's plenty interesting pavement to explore right here in our own backyard. Not only is Michigan home to some of the most beautiful natural landscapes in the US, but many of these destinations are unknown to all but a few.

Personally, I prefer to avoid the vacationing crowds, traveling instead to remote, little-known places. Thankfully, I don't have to shell out the cash it would take to hop a plane or drive 1,000's of miles to find beautiful, unpopulated road trip destinations. With Michigan's abundance of natural lakes, state forests, white sand dunes and shorelines, why would you road trip in any other state?

This is a very, very short list of beautiful Michigan road trip destinations that aren't too far from our own backyard.

West Michigan Scenic Drive - My personal favorite, this meandering stretch of road travels along the coast from Muskegon to Silver Lake State Park. There are plenty of beaches and lighthouses along the way, but Silver Lake's white sand dunes take the cake. There's a breathtaking view of the dunes as you crest a hill on B-1 traveling North which never fails to amaze me.

Although the name of the road sometimes changes (Scenic Drive, Route B-15, Lakeside Drive), it's never hard to find - just keep Lake Michigan out your driver's side window! map link

Shrine of the Pines - As beautiful as it is unique, this destination is nestled in the heart of Michigan's Manistee National Forest, near Baldwin. Visiting the world's largest collection of hand-made pine furniture is a fantastic beginning or start to a trip through the dense wilderness of Manistee's many parks and hiking trails. map link

Harrisville, Northern Michigan (East coast) - Home of Iargo Springs, one of the most fascinating and little-known natural wonders in Michigan, this road trip destination lies on Michigan's East coast. A fantastic destination for a week long meandering road trip, the Widow's Watch bed and breakfast provides nearby lodging that is a treat in and of itself. map link

M-22 Highway, Leelanau Penninsula Drive - A popular and beautiful destination for road trips, Leelanau has everything you could want. From fudge shops and unique towns to serene fishing locations, M-22 is one of the most beautiful stretches of road in the Lower Peninsula. map link

If you'd like to see more Michigan road trip destinations, or find tips for lodging, check out this link.

Did we miss a destination? Comment and tell us about your favorite Michigan getaway!

2008 Nissan Rogue #1256A in Boston Weymouth, MA Nissan SOLD

www.coastalnissan.com SOLD - Ifyou are looking for real value on a great used car, Coastal Nissan invites you to come in and test drive this 2008 Nissan Rogue, stock# 1256A. We are conveniently located near Boston Weymouth, MA and known for our great selection, reliability and quality. Come take a look at this 2008 Nissan Rogue today. Coastal Nissan 109 Accord Park Drive Boston Weymouth MA, Nissan 800-562-9993 Coastal Nissan came about in 2001 when Richard Walker and Tom Norton decided to go into business together, leveraging their combined 30 years in the automobile industry and a strong commitment to customer satisfaction. Boston Weymouth Maxima Altima Dorchester Pathfinder Norwell Massachusetts Murano Cube MA 02061 Cambridge Brockton Braintree This ONE OWNER vehicle just came in. Complete with POWER windows, locks and mirrors, cruise control, tilt steering wheel, driver, passenger and side air bags for safety, am/fm radio with cd player, alloy wheels and remote KEYLESS entry. This vehicle is equipt with an ALL WHEEL DRIVE system that will make you feel confident in all weather conditions. This vehicle has been through our service department. We replaced 4 tires, the rear brake pads, the engine air filter, the wiper blades and performed an oil and filter change. Come down and test drive this GREAT vehicle today.............

how to change your brake pads

how to replace your brake pads

How to Replace Lug Nut Studs : Removing a Parking Brake Cable

Learn how to remove a parking brake cable on your tire with expert tips in this free auto maintenance video clip. Expert: Nathan McCullough Bio: Nathan McCullough graduated from Nashville Auto-Diesel College with a GPA of 3.5 and received their Craftsmanship Award and Honor Seal. Filmmaker: Robert Rogers

A Womans Point of View: A Typical Day Heats Up

by Colette Cooley, Cars for Keeps Office Manager

My alarm clock does not ring, or buzz, or play music. It starts off with birds singing and then my very British butler, who lives in my alarm clock, announces the events of the day so far. This morning he informed me that Opray Winfrey would like to luncheon with me today and he took the liberty of only charging her $100,000 for the privilege.

It is hard enough to wake up in the morning, you might as well do it with some silliness and a smile. I was feeling pretty perky until I got to work and walked into a furnace – the air conditioning konked out over the weekend and it had to be 100 degrees in there. Oh, Joy! I do not do well in muggy heat. It only took me five minutes to discover the computer that I work at was the only dead air space in the whole building. The temperature was already well on its way to over the 90 degree mark outside. It felt cooler outside. We were all in that fragile moment of deciding if we were going to give in to this and be grouchy or are we going to make the best of this bad situation.

Then I began to notice something. The customers sitting in our sweltering lounge sporting the most wonderful sheen, were taking it all in stride. We would apologize for the uncomfortable warmth and they all smiled and assured us that, “Hey, life happens.” Because of these wonderful people and their positive attitudes, we adapted.

We slowed down our usual frantic pace, took the time to hand out cold drinks, made sure we were all drinking plenty of water. In other words, everyone looked after each other. We even treated ourselves to some old-fashioned malted milks.

Good things happen at Cars For Keeps even when it starts out looking bad.

The Process of Alloy Wheel Refurbishment

Alloy wheel refurbishment is one of the most popular ways of making your wheels look new again. Short of spending the money for new wheels, this is the least expensive way to keep them from reducing the quality and appearance of your car.

Most alloy wheels are painted and the scratches that are a part of the normal wear and tear from the road can make them begin to look really bad. Check the wheels once they are removed from the car and the paint is stripped off to see if they have any deep gouges that will need to be filled. If so, these may need to be filled. The smaller scratches can be filled with spot putty.

The presence of large gouges may need to be filled by finding a welding shop that does this type of work. Most people are not welders so finding someone who knows how to do this is your best bet. Once all the scratches and gouges have been filled, the wheels will have to be sanded so they are smooth once again.

This is a process that takes a while, because they may have to be sanded a couple of times with different grit sandpaper to make the surface smooth and consistent. This must also be done in warm weather, preferably in the sun. Cool or damp weather is not conducive to allowing the putty to dry.

Once you have the sanding completed and everything is smooth, clean the wheel thoroughly with mineral spirits. This is a very important step in the process. The wheels must be perfectly clean. Depending upon whether the tires have been removed (which is actually preferred) they may have to be taped off so this lessens the risk of spraying paint on them.

When you are ready spray a coat of primer on the wheels. This should be sprayed lightly at first and then spray using the back and forth motion that is recommended for spray paint. Once the primer is dry, it will need to be sanded using wet sandpaper. Typically a 400 grit is used first and then the 600 grit. You will need to put two coasts of primer on the wheels.

You are now ready to put the color on the wheels. Once you have sprayed the first coat, you should let it dry. A good time frame is overnight. You will need two coasts of color on the wheels and they must be completely dry before the clear coat is applied. If not, this may cause the color to come off while spraying the clear coat.

When the clear coat is dry it can be sanded using from 1500 to 2000 grit sandpaper. Polish your wheels with wax and they are returned to a former shine and brilliance you will be proud to show off. This is an option that can be used if you need your alloy wheels to look great again and money is an object. The professional process of refurbishing alloy wheels is done a little differently than what you would do yourself.

How Safe Are Your Brakes?

You must have seen the villain devilishly clipping the brakes of car used by hero in an action movie, driving him into a nerve-racking ride down the limited-access highway. Quite reverse to this, in real life, the subject of having safe brakes, is not thrilling, but is something indispensable. In case you sense that anything is burning in your car while you are driving it, or may be if you hear a squealing sound while you arrive at a stop, time has come that you check your brakes thoroughly.

Basically there are two chief constituents that affect the safety of the brake:

- Level of the fluid

- Condition of the Brake pad

- At any time the warning light of brake gets on it means that the light has not got on because of some problem in the hand brake. The problem lies somewhere else in the brake. Besides this, level of the brake fluid and the condition of the brake pad should be thoroughly checked at least one time in a year.

Checking the Level of the Brake Fluid:

Go through the manual of the car in order to know the location of the reservoir of the fluid. As soon as you find out the reservoir which is generally marked with the particulars concerning the kind of fluid needs to be used, ensure that the level of the fluid is not less than the "Minimum" line and possibly it reaches the "Maximum" line closely. Besides this, ensure that the fluid appears to be clear with yellowy appearance, if which is not, you might have to change it. Thoroughly check the container of the brake fluid in order to ensure that it does not leak. Apart from this, possibly try to park the car on the slab of cardboard and spout the brake to check if the fluid is leaking or not. Quite reverse to this, if you come across a leak, get a mechanic to check your car immediately and possible try to get the part changed due to which the brake fluid is leaking.

Replacing the Brake Oil:

Pouring in more fluid would resolve problems such as softening of brake pedals, brake warning light getting on, etc. Besides this, it is important that you get the brake fluid changed at least once in a week to ensure that it performs at the optimum level. As per trustmymechanic.com, it is important that you replaced the brake fluid of your car after you cross every 30,000 miles or in case the color of the brake fluid turns dark and dim.

Amidst of all this, when changing fluid comes into the picture, you could clean out the system on your own by getting someone to help you in it, or allow the gravity to bleed the fluid on its own, in case you do not have anyone to help you. Together these systems include jacking the car up, taking away the tires and unscrewing the screws to allow the fluid and the unnecessary air pour out.

Fuel Efficiency Tips for Cutting Down on Road Trip Gas Bills

by Marjorie, Cars for Keeps Social Media Manager

Drivers are always looking for ways to get better gas mileage, especially when it comes to long-distance travel. Not only does gas-efficient driving cut down on the costs of gas, but it also conserves natural resources and helps to keep pollution down. Every little bit counts!

Whether you're commuting across town or are driving across the country, there are many things drivers can do to help their vehicles get more efficient gas mileage.

Driving more efficiently.

That's right, drivers can do many things to get better gas mileage - without the help of a mechanic! Drivers can improve gas mileage by as much as 10% by observing the following rules:

- Drive sensibly and carefully. Fast acceleration, quick breaking and quick cornering can increase your vehicle's gas consumption by 5% in town and 33% on the freeway. So take it easy, and do your best to work with your vehicle's inertia, rather than fighting it.

- Go the speed limit. Research has shown that fuel efficiency over the speed of 60 miles per hour decreases rapidly. In general, you can estimate your vehicle uses an extra 24 cents per gallon for every 5 miles you go over 60mph.
- Clean out the trunk. Do you really need to carry golf clubs, a tool box and other clutter in your trunk? Those boxes of books you've been meaning to drop off at Goodwill are making your vehicle run inefficiently.
- Avoid idling unnecessarily. If your vehicle will be sitting still for more than 60 seconds, it's most efficient to simply turn the engine off. Remember: idling gets you zero miles per gallon.



Good vehicle maintenance.

It's been said before, but it's true. Keeping your vehicle in great working condition will not only cut down on the cost of serious mechanical problems, but also on gas consumption as well.

- Keep the engine tuned. Tuning an engine that is significantly out of tune can raise gas mileage by 4%, and it will help the engine last longer as well. Fixing more serious problems, such as broken oxygen sensors, can boost gas mileage by 40%.
- Proper tire inflation. Good tire inflation can improve gas efficiency as much as 3.3%. Under-inflated tires waste gas and aren't nearly as safe as properly inflated tires. Aren't sure about your vehicle's proper PSI? We know a few good auto technicians who'd be happy to find out for you.
- Consistently use the right motor oil. All car manufacturers recommend a specific grade of motor oil, and using the wrong grade can lower your gas mileage by 1-2%.
- Replace dirty air filters. Cars need to breathe, just like we do. Air filters are very cheap but essential parts; they protect vehicles' engines from becoming contaminated with dirt and dust, and when they become old and clogged, vehicles struggle to get enough oxygen and end up using more fuel than necessary. Dirty air filters can lower gas mileage anywhere from 2-14%.

Save money on commutes or summer vacations by making sure your vehicle isn't wasting gas. Stop by Cars for Keeps for a free pit stop, and see how we can help you save money on gas.

Safe driving!

*****Nissan Almera Modified*****.wmv

NISSAN ALMERA 1.5L 2000 PAPER WORK OF CAR 1-Warranty Booklet and Maintenance Record 2-PAN Europe Service Dealer List 2000 3-Nissan Road Side Assistance 4-ALMERA Owners Manual 5-Registration Certificate 6-Road Tax Document 7-MOT Certificate CAR INTERIOR SOUND SYSTEM Head-Unit -----Pioneer DEH-P40MP (approx. £120) www.pioneer.co.uk Amplifier ----- TheLoudest.co.uk 3000w Class D Amplifier (Original Price £399 Bought for £130 from eBay lol) www.theloudest.co.uk Subwoofer ------ Pioneer 12 woofer 3000Watts (approx £150) www.pioneer.co.uk Subwoofer Control Switch INTERIOR VELVET INTERIOR (cost me £1200) LEATHER SEATS rear & front (included in Velvet Interior price) Front ARM REST & CUP HOLDER Back ARM REST & CUP HOLDER AUDI R8 Look a-like LIGHTS (approx £50) 2 front seat + boot Good Quality ALARM Extra Rear - Cigarette Lighter Switch Sun Visors Lights High Quality Mats CAR EXTERIOR HID4U Lights (approx £110) www.shopwiki.co.uk OPTIMA Yellow Top Battery TOP QUALITY BATTERY (approx £300) www.optimabatteries.com Trucks with winches, vehicles with multiple electronics, cars with high-demand audio systems, commercial vehicles and heavy equipment all rely on this battery to provide ultimate starting and deep cycle power. SONIC POWER Induction Kit (approx £280) www.blitz-uk.co.uk Car Lowered by 20mm (approx £100) Racing Mud-Flaps (approx £30) www.extremeautoaccessories.co.uk Kei Kruze 7.5x18" Alloy Wheels (approx £1200) www.kei-alloy-wheels.co.uk Nur Spec R Exhaust System (approx £560 ...

Öl-Mangel

Oh Oh... Kein Öl mehr im Elch... :D

How to change your brake pads NEW

This time it's day time so you can actually see what I'm doing.

When It Comes To Braking, Silence Is Golden

(FordOwner.com) Want to impress your friends with your knowledge of calipers, pads and rotors and what they should look out for when their brakes start squeaking and grinding? Then check out this video. Afterward, you can share your views on dishing rotors.

A Women’s Point of View: It’s Summertime and the Living is Easy

by Colette Cooley, Cars for Keeps Office Manager

Summertime seems to bring out the ‘anything is possible’ gene in most of us. Slow, easygoing, mind renewing, exciting things that fill our days in the summer. The picnics on the beach or in a meadow; where the ants and flies show up in hordes of happiness. Bike riding to feel the breeze against your warm skin and an occasional bug to swallow. Swimming which soothes the body and the mind in nature’s womb.

Watching those sunsets while holding the hand of someone you love. Meeting someone really interesting over a vegetable stall at the open air market. Giving into temptation to wade in the fountain in the park. Going barefoot through the grass. Watching the local teams practice baseball. Catching fireflies. Enjoying fireworks. Running away from home (which we sometimes refer to as a vacation) to seek relaxation and/or adventure.

Cars For Keeps has had an influx of vacationers with car troubles. Hey - things happen! Just think of it as the adventurous side of the vacation. We know it is irritating to have your car break down when on vacation, and that is why we are experts at turning a negative into a positive.

We have met some new friends from out of town and even ended up having some laughs for everyone. We may never see these wonderful people again, but for a moment, we touched each other’s lives in a positive way. Aaaahhh! Summertime is full of possibilities and the living is easy.

Replacing Car Clutch and Oil Filter

Have you ever replaced a car clutch yourselves? Unlike other car related works, it's not that easy or simple. First of all you should be clearing the basics. Still, it's not just about getting things right. There are lots of things to learn. Only by practicing the act, you'll be gaining the right kind of exposure. And from then on, things will get easier for you. But to get into such a level, you should be willing to work a lot. If you are not that interested in repairing kind of things, you may simply learn the steps and try it yourself.

Do you think the procedure related with the replacement of clutch in a rear wheel drive car and that in a front wheel drive car would be the same? Well, not at all? Actually they are with different steps. These are two procedures that have to be done in different fashion. For the same reason, before you get any further, you should first of all understand the type of car you are with. If you are with a front wheel car, you should be following the procedures mentioned this type of cars. Otherwise, the other procedure, which is meant for rear wheel drive cars.

You'll need a clutch disk and a pressure plate to carry out the process. The steps would be a bit general for both types of cars. You may have a look at a manual that explains the process pretty briefly. This would be helping you to clear the basic stuffs regarding the replacement of clutch in a car. Like every other car repairing process, this time also you should be lifting the car up using a jack. Don't play with the jack, if you don't have any experience dealing with this equipment.

So, as mentioned above the steps for replacing the car clutch in a rear wheel drive and front wheel drive cars are different. Before starting with things, it's better to have a look at a good manual that explains the procedures pretty briefly. The same rule can be applied for changing oil filter also. Anyways, if you are having any doubts regarding the steps, related to the above two procedures, it's better to seek the help of a mechanic that knows his job well.

Galfer Motorcycle Brake Pads - Cycle Gear Review

See the Galfer Brake Pads here: www.cyclegear.com Sandro of Galfer Braking Systems discusses the history of Galfer as well as features of the Galfer Brake Pads, which are available for nearly every application, whether street, track or off-road. He talks about the materials used, the various compounds available and how to properly "bed in" new pads.

A Women’s Point of View: Let Freedom Ring

by Colette Cooley, Cars for Keeps Office Manager

How often do we consciously think about all the freedom we have in this country? Sometimes we focus on things that we are not allowed to do in our lives, like being able to quit our jobs, getting the kids educated for free, and, gee, let’s not pay our taxes this year. Those are pesky problems in our lives that we all have to deal with, but actually do not have anything to do with our freedoms. I would love to pay a million dollars in taxes - do you know what kind of income that would mean for me?

Let’s focus on the freedom to live where and how we want live. The freedom to marry who we want and have as many children as we want. The freedom to choose any profession, from collecting empty bottles to being the President of the United States, and then the freedom to pursue that profession. The freedom to wear the clothes we want, visit any place we want, handle our own money and to drive the car we want. (You knew I would be getting around to cars.)

No patting Cars For Keeps on the back in this blog, just a moment of remembrance and appreciation for the men and women who have strived and won the victories for the freedoms that we celebrate this past 4th of July. In appreciation to the men and women who are actively serving in the military, Cars For Keeps offers free oil changes for them and their spouses.

Let Freedom Ring!

How to Replace a Steering Rack

Replacing a steering rack is one of the more difficult of the do it yourself car repair jobs. Before you start, read the instructions completely and make sure you have everything that you will need. Also, keep in mind that these instructions are generalized, and will not be specific to your vehicle. Some steps may need to be done slightly different. It is recommended that you read the factory shop manual first. Lastly, you will need someone to help you with the project.

You will need screwdrivers, a ratchet and socket set with extensions, wrenches, a hammer, pliers, a wire brush, power steering filter, power steering fluid, automatic transmission fluid, a tie rod separator, a jack, jack stands, possibly an engine support fixture, and of course the new power steering rack.

First, loosen all the wheel lug nuts and jack up the front of the car. Then, take off both front wheels. Start with the steering wheel turned forward, and turn it slowly until you can get a socket to the steering shaft joint bolt. After you take the bolt off, use the screwdriver to tap the universal joint upwards. This ensures that you can easily move the spline clamp. Don't remove the spline clamp just yet. Unbolt the bolts under the front plastic pan, then remove it. Next, unbolt the tie rod bolt on the hubs on both sides. Take the tie rod separator; push them out on both sides. Loosen first the tie rod locking bolt, then the tie rod ball joint. Remove the rubber boot and loosen the ball joint. Unbolt the hydraulic feed-and-return line, and remove the steering rack mounting bolts. Have your helper turn the steering wheel right, then drop the rack down that side. Then, do the same for the opposite side.

Take the hydraulic line holder bracket, boot, mounting rubber, metal bracket and put them on the new rack. Since the wheel is already to the left, install that side first. Then, position the spline shaft and clamp correctly. Once it's done, turn the wheel and do the same for the other side. Reinstall the mounting bolts on the steering rack. Install the feed-and-return hydraulic lines. Center the steering rack and steering wheel. Re-install the ball joint, rubber boot, then tie rods. Install the steering column universal shaft spline clamp bolt, then install the front pan. Put the front wheels back on.

You're all done.  It's not one of the easier do it yourself jobs but if you follow the instructions above and read your vehicle manual, you should be just fine.

2008 HYUNDAI AZERA

2008 HYUNDAI AZERA Madison WI (608) 807-0468 www.zimbrick.com Formore information on this vehicle and our full inventory, call Internet Team at (608) 807-0468. Zimbrick Fish Hatchery Rd 1601 W Beltline Hwy Madison, WI 53713 ONE OWNER,REMAINING FACTORY WARRANTY,MOONROOF,LEATHER INTERIOR,HEATED SEATS,POWER SEAT,STEERING WHEEL CONTROLS,FOG LIGHTS,ALUMINIUM WHEELS,AUTOMATIC CLIMATE CONTROL,REMOTE KEYLESS ENTRY,SECURITY ALARM,AM CD PLAYER,MUTI DISC CD PLAYER,LEATHER WRAPPED STEERING WHEEL,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL,TRACTION CONTROL,SIDE IMPACT AIR BAGS,SIDE CURTAIN AIR BAGS,REAR PASSENGER SIDE CURTAINS,ANTILOCK BRAKES,ROTATE TIRES,REPLACE REAR BRAKE PADS,INSTALL NEW AIR FILTER,CHANGE OIL AND FILTER,SAFETY INSPECTION COMPLETED

How to Check Brake Fluid

Maintaining Your Brake Fluid Level

The first thing you should do is clean the fluid reservoir before doing anything.

A car that runs well is useless if you can't stop when you need to. Caring for your car's braking system includes getting brake pads replaced, inspecting the brake rotors and ensuring you have enough clean brake fluid so the entire braking system functions correctly.

Most cars and trucks have see-through fluid reservoirs that allow you to see and check the brake fluid level without having to open the reservoir cap. You can find the brake fluid reservoir toward the back of the engine bay on the left side (or driver's side). It's usually up high for easy access. 

After you locate the fluid reservoir, look for markings along the side of the container. These makings show fluid level and indicate whether or not you need to add any additional fluid. You may need to wipe of some grime in order to see the mark clearly and read them.

Adding Brake Fluid

If you need to add more fluid to the reservoir, follow the steps below.

Before removing the fluid reservoir cap, wipe the area down thoroughly with a rag in case there is any grime. This will make the markings along the reservoir more visible. A car's braking system is sensitive. Any dirt or materials that find their way in can clog or degrade braking system components. So, it's always best to give it a thorough wipe down to avoid any future problems.

Remove the cap. Slowly, add break fluid until it rises to the desired level. Replace the reservoir and you're done. After a couple of days, you should recheck the level to see if you need to add more fluid.

One Thing To Remember:

DO NOT SHAKE a bottle of brake fluid before you add it to your vehicle. The bubbles created from the shaking action cause huge problems! And remember to replace your brake pads and rotors when needed as well to have a great all around braking system.

Do Your Vehicle Brakes Squeal?

Does your vehicle squeal when you apply the brakes? This could be the sound of your "chirper", a signaling device built into the system to warn you of worn brake pads. A squealing or grinding noise also is characteristic of the new, semi-metallic friction material used on brake pads and linings. This material replaces the hazardous asbestos previously used.

Brake performance on vehicles of recent years is significantly improved, as is the service life of braking system parts. Unfortunately consumer attitude toward preventive maintenance has not kept pace with technology. A national consumer survey showed vehicle neglect is on the rise even though nearly half of motorists ranked brake failure as their number one fear among driving emergencies.

The USGAO reports that states without vehicle safety inspection programs had accident rates 16% higher than those with some inspection program.

Whether or not your vehicle's brakes are inspected periodically, be aware of the signs of brake trouble and take corrective measures at once.

Listen for unusual noises when brakes are applied. To hear properly, try applying brakes at slow speeds with windows down.

Brake work performed on time saves money as well as lives. Some owners, to squeeze more miles out of their worn brake pads, have been known to disable the "chirper". This is a terrible case of false economy. In addition to affecting your safety driving, metal-to-metal wear of rotors or drums adds hundreds of dollars to a brake system overhaul.

If brake fluid needs filling frequently, correct the leak.

If vehicle pulls to one side, if the brakes shudder or if the pedal pulsates, have a repair shop check out the trouble.

If the pedal fades, feels spongey or falls to the floor under steady foot pressure, take the vehicle in for service.

Invest in the best quality brake work you can obtain. You do care about yourself and those you transport don't you?