Continue reading to learn the top 5 most common myths about gas mileage, and what you can do to get your car fuel efficient in no time.

Avoid Believing These Common Fuel Efficiency Myths

Small Cars Get Better Fuel Mileage

Size has nothing to do with fuel efficiency. Everything under the hood, the materials used to manufacture the vehicle, and proper maintenance are what make vehicles fuel-efficient. Advancements in technology that promote better fuel economy include diesel engines, turbochargers, hybrid drive-trains, and low-rolling resistance tires.

Manual Transmissions Get Better Gas Mileage

Although true in the past, new advancements in automatic-transmission technology has made this a modern-day myth. More gears has led to less wasted fuel and much more. Whether you choose manual or automatic, fuel efficiency will not be comprised by this decision.

Old Cars Get Poor Gas Mileage

A vehicle is really only as old as its engine. And so long as the engine is properly maintained over the years of ownership and use, the gas mileage should not be affected. In fact, there is a vehicle “break-in” period (the first 5,000 miles or so) where the fuel efficiency actually improves, rather than declines!

Replacing the Air Filter Will Jump-Kick Fuel Economy

If your car has an older engine with a carburetor still, then this myth is a little true. But fuel economy for modern fuel-injected cars and trucks is not influenced by a singular filter change. Fuel-injected engines delivers lower emissions and improved fuel economy. An onboard computer automatically adjusts the fuel-flow depending on the amount of air entering the engine.

Premium Fuel Will Improve Gas Mileage

This will just end up being a waste of money. Premium fuel does not equal better fuel economy. In fact, using a higher-octane fuel will not alter vehicle performance at all. Only use premium gas if your vehicle’s owners’ manual suggests to; otherwise, stick to unleaded.

Want to know how to truly get better gas mileage? The short answer is staying current on all factory scheduled car maintenance and care. But, check back at the end of the month for a blog informing you on all the ways you can enhance your fuel efficiency!

Where to Get Trusted Indianapolis Auto Service at the Right Price

Call Northeast Auto at 317-475-1846 for affordable auto repair and service in Indianapolis, Indiana. We provide domestic and foreign car repair and factory scheduled maintenance for all make and model vehicles. On top of competitive prices, we also offer car repair coupons and discounts! Call 317-475-1846 to request a free estimate, today.

Continue reading to learn the top three reasons to get your car suspension system inspected, and the consequences of poor suspension maintenance.

Get Your Suspension Checked Out if You Have…

Car Alignment Problems

If you cover numerous miles per week driving to and from work or anywhere else, then at some point you will need to get a realignment for your vehicle. The best way to check if you are experiencing problems with your alignment is to pay close attention to the direction the vehicle pulls. Try doing this in the safest way possible, such as slowly approaching a stop sign, and right before reaching it, lightly undo your grip from the steering wheel. If the vehicle continues in a straight path to the stop sign, then your alignment is in good shape for now; however, if it veers to the left or right, you need to have the area checked out and fixed. When you get your alignment worked on, the inspection includes an entire area check. Sway bar links, struts, bearing, bushings, ball joints, and more are some areas that will be reviewed.

Daily Commutes

If you are driving through areas such as construction zones and gravel lots, then you are subject to experience frequent issues with your vehicle’s suspension and more.  Road where paving has been stripped, as well as roads that carry obtrusive debris or rocks can cause severe wear and tear on your tires. Over time, it can put excessive strain on the struts and shocks. It can also loosen the bolts near the tires. This can be a dangerous situation. One way to check the condition of your shocks and struts is to park the car, then get out and lean on one side. When you let off, if the car bounces more than once, you need to have your vehicle inspected. Even the smallest bounce can grow bigger over time.

A Car Accident

One of the most common reasons to have your car suspension system checked out is if your car has been involved in an accident. Car wrecks and crashed can have a significant impact on the overall condition and drivability of your vehicle. The impact of a car crash can easily throw off your vehicle’s alignment and damage its suspension. Although you may focus on getting the cosmetic damages fixed, there is more to look for following a car accident.

Indianapolis Suspension Inspection, Service and Repair You Can Trust

Call Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for professional scheduled car maintenance in Indianapolis, Indiana. We are ASE licensed and certified car mechanics who provide a wide range of foreign and domestic auto repair services, including car suspension inspections and repairs, as well as free estimates, coupons, car care advice, and more. Request a free estimate, or schedule service, today.

Continue reading to learn some tips for finding a reliable, affordable, and skilled SUV auto repair shop in Indianapolis, Indiana.

Where to Start When Looking for a SUV Mechanic

It is very helpful to begin your hunt for a reliable auto repair shop before you take your new SUV home with you. This head start will provide insight on what to expect once your SUV requires some professional attention, or it comes time for its factory scheduled maintenance.  There will be no surprises; you’ll know exactly who you can call and who you can trust. You won’t have to waste time worrying about finding an honest and dependable auto repair mechanic that is close to home and fits your budget, all within short notice and under duress.

Once You Find a Good Candidate

Once you think you have found some good candidates for SUV service and repair, you can dig a little deeper and look for some clues that speak to the character and proficiency of the shop. For instance, look for professional licensing, associations, and similar credentials. Also inquire about the number of years they have been working on car professionally. Look for signs about surcharges, fees, billing, and more, and ask about their billing and fee policy. Inquire about free services, such as estimates or inspections. Look to see if the facility is clean and organized, and if whether or not the staff is neatly dressed and exhibiting positive attitudes.

Aside from your regular scheduled maintenance, there are several other things you can do for your SUV to keep it dependable for years to come. Keep up with regular tire inflation, light inspections, antifreeze refills, coolant refills, windshield wiper refills, windshield wiper replacements, and more. And be sure to drive smoothly and do not abuse the brakes! Good driving practices plus proper maintenance will ensure your vehicle performs safely and efficiently for a long time.

Skip the Hassle of Looking Around…

Choose Our ASE Licensed Mechanics for SUV Repair in Indianapolis!

Call Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for professional SUV auto repair and routine automotive services you can trust. We have been helping Hoosiers repair and maintenance their vehicles for over 20 years, while offering affordable prices and reliable work. You can schedule a free inspection and estimate, anytime! We can even assist with tows! Don’t forget to mention one of our auto repair coupons or discounts to get the best deal in town.

Take it to a reputable service garage and get reliable and educated answers on transmission repair and replacement options. Continue below to do just that!

Transmission Repair Services

In some cases, a transmission can be saved, especially if the damage has only recently occurred. Waiting too long to get an engine problem looked at can result in more severe damages. In the case that a mechanic can repair a transmission, you might want to consider getting it fixed. If the transmission is newer, this is a good option. The mechanic will have a better understanding about the condition and potential of the engine. They can give the best advice on what type of repair you should pursue. If the damage is too extensive, the price of repair can be very high; so it is more economical to replace the part entirely.

Transmission Replacement

When the damages to a car transmission are too severe, repairing it can be extremely expensive or not possible at all. At this point, it is more practical to buy a new one altogether. It is a fact that transmissions are pricey; but there are some other options for a person on a budget. Many car scrap yards and other auto companies sell refurbished or used car transmissions. Buying a used or re-manufactured transmission is a resourceful option. Many people recycle old cars and sell car parts that are still in working condition. You can get virtually-new parts at a fair price, and used units for less than a new one. Although the life span of a used auto part isn’t very long, it’s a good fit for a budget-conscience buyer.

If a used auto part isn’t something that interests you, purchasing a new one can be done. This is an expensive option, and sometimes, not an option at all. It depends on the year, make, and model vehicle that needs it. Sometimes, new transmissions aren’t available, so replacing it with a used one is the only option. As mentioned before, a licensed mechanic can give you all this necessary information once an inspection is completed on your vehicle.

Indianapolis Transmission Repair and Service By ASE Certified Mechanics

Call Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for professional Indianapolis transmission repair and automotive services you can trust. We have been helping Hoosiers repair and maintenance their vehicles for over 20 years, while offering affordable prices and reliable work. You can schedule a free inspection and estimate, anytime! We can even assist with tows! Don’t forget to mention one of our Indianapolis car repair coupons or discounts to get the best deal in town.

Continue reading to learn a few common habits that can cause serious, costly damage to your car, and see if you are guilty of a few of them yourself!

The Parking Brake

The parking brake is one of the most neglected parts of an automatic transmission vehicle. Those who own manual cars or trucks often use their parking brake, but for several other drivers out there, this operation is often ignored, whether automatic or manual. This is a mistake that can jeopardize the integrity of your parking pawl and the transmission itself.

It can also result in your vehicle rolling downhill uncontrollably, after being parked on an incline. The parking brake puts a lock on the wheels and prevents it from rolling away. Failing to use a parking brake puts a lot of pressure on the car’s transmission; a part of the vehicle not meant to “hold” a car in place. It also strips the parking paw, as mentioned before. Always use the parking brake, but remember to release it before putting your car into drive again!

Switching Gears

Another common driving mistake is switching gears while the car is in motion. This often occurs when a driver backs up in reverse, and then switches their car into the drive-gear before it comes to a complete stop. This can strip the gears and bands within a vehicle’s transmission, which can be a costly repair. After a while, your vehicle may lose its ability to switch gears altogether because there is nothing there to provide the necessary tension it takes to thrust a vehicle into drive.  Always come to a complete stop before switching gears. See our blog, “Frequently Asked Questions About Car Transmissions” to review related car care tips.

Air Conditioning

Many people start their cars the wrong way by leaving their AC on when they shut off the ignition from the last time they drove. But leaving the AC on when you turn your car off, or already having it on when you start your car, is bad for the serpentine belt and causes the engine to work harder than it has to. This can lead to costly repairs down the line. Talk to a mechanic to learn when you need auto air conditioner service.

Automotive Fluids

Failing to replace or change-out automotive fluids is another major mistake made by drivers and car owners alike. This can cause several issues and performance failures with a vehicle. Fluids like brake fluid, motor oil, transmission fluid, power steering fluid, battery fluid, coolant, and windshield wiper fluid are the most important lubricants and liquids for all vehicles. Have them flushed, filled, and replaced as suggested by the manufacturer. See our blog about important fluids every vehicle should maintain to learn more.

Odd Noises and Sounds

We are probably all guilty of ignoring funny noises and strange sounds coming from our vehicles, at some point in our driving careers. But this is bad to do, and can lead to very costly repairs and put a driver and their passengers in danger. It is not safe to drive a car that is not in good condition. Bad brakes, an overheating engine, and much more can cause serous car accidents and collisions. If your car’s brakes are squeaky, or your engine seems to hiss louder than usual, or you hear some other type of unfamiliar noise coming from your vehicle, take it in to a licensed Indianapolis auto mechanic right away.

Never ignore any problems your car, no matter how minor. Bring it into a licensed mechanic as soon as you suspect that something is off with your vehicle’s performance or quality.

ASE Certified Indianapolis Auto Repair and Service in Indianapolis

Call Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for professional Indianapolis auto repair and service you can trust. We have been helping Hoosiers repair and maintenance their vehicles for over 20 years, while offering affordable prices and reliable work. You can schedule a free inspection and estimate, anytime! We can even assist with tows! Don’t forget to mention one of our auto repair coupons or discounts to get the best deal in town.

Take the challenge and complete the automotive quiz below, and then assess your score at the bottom of the page to see how well you did!

Your Automotive Challenge Awaits…

Start by taking the quiz and recording each of your choices. Then compare your answers to the scoreboard at the bottom of the quiz. Good luck!

Question #1

Which Type of Fluid is Used to Lubricate a Car’s Engine?

1. Windshield Wiper Fluid
2. Coolant
3. Motor Oil
4. Anti-Freeze

Question #2

Which Car Part is Made from the Rare Metal, Platinum?

1. Pistons
2. Catalytic Converter
3. Crank Case
4. Muffler

Question #3

What Service Does Your Car Require for Optimal On-Going Performance?

1. Oil Change
2. Radiator Flush
3. Alignment
4. All of the Above

Question #4

For What Reason Could a Check Engine Light Be On?

1. Loose Gas Cap
2. Flat Tire
3. Broken Windshield Wiper
4. All of the Above

Question #5

What Do You Need to Flush a Radiator?

1. Funnel, Coolant Receptacle, and Cloth
2. Phillips Screw Driver
3. Radiator Flush and Anti-Freeze
4. All of the Above

Question #6

What Do You Need to Startup a Dead Car Battery?

1. Wrench
2. Jumper-Cables
3. Screw Driver
4. Battery Fluid

Question #7

If a Car Bounces While Driving, What Could Be the Problem Area?

1. Engine
2. Fuel Tank
3. Suspension
4. Power Steering

Question #8

Which Fluid Do You Require to Control Engine Temperatures?

1. Brake Fluid
2. Motor Oil
3. Water
4. Coolant

Question #9

Which Automotive Part Dims the Noise Produced by an Engine?

1. Muffler
2. Exhaust
3. Transmission
4. Ignition

Question #10

What Does an Odometer Measure?

1. Distance
2. Speed
3. Fuel Level
4. Engine Temperature

Now Check Your Score!

Answer Key: 1-c, 2-b, 3-d, 4-a, 5-d, 6-b, 7-c, 8-d, 9-a, 10-a

Indianapolis Auto Repair and Service Pros You Can Trust

Call Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for professional Indianapolis auto repair and service you can trust. We have been helping Hoosiers repair and maintenance their vehicles for over 20 years, while offering affordable prices and reliable work. You can schedule a free inspection and estimate, anytime! We can even assist with tows! Don’t forget to mention one of our auto repair coupons or discounts to get the best deal in town.

Continue reading and match your car problem with its needed repair. Then call a professional and licensed mechanic for reputable Indianapolis auto repair services you can trust.

Signs That Suggest a Particular Type of Auto Repair

Brake Repair:

Squealing or Screeching Noises
Slower Stop Times
Crunching or Grinding Noises
Burnt Rubber Smell
Rattling Noises
Pulling in a Certain Direction

Engine/Transmission Repair:

Humming, Buzzing, Knocking, or Whining Noises
Engine Turns but Won’t Start Smoking
Increased Gas Consumption
Backfiring
Stalling
Bad Exhaust Smell
Tire Service and Repair:
Uneven Steering Wheel
Wobble-Like Drive
Excessive Vibrating
Pulling

Factory Scheduled Maintenance:

Dim or Burnt Out Lights
Engine Overheating
Slow Starting
Slower Braking
Stubborn or “Heavy” Steering Wheel
Squeaky Brakes
Smoking
Diminished AC
Reduced Gas Mileage

Check Engine Light On:

Wet Engine
Blown Gasket
Faulty O2 Sensors
Cracked Manifold
Pinched or Worn Fuel Injector O-Rings
Deteriorated Spark Plugs

Indianapolis Automotive Repair and Service You Can Trust

Call Northeast Auto at 317-475-1846 for affordable auto repair service in Indianapolis, Indiana. We provide domestic and foreign car repair for all make and model vehicles. On top of competitive prices, we also offer car repair coupons and discounts! Schedule a free inspection and estimate, anytime. Don’t forget to ask us about our auto repair coupons and discounts! But start by requesting a free auto repair estimate or some quick mechanic advice, today.

Continue reading to learn when you should change the oil in your vehicle, and who to trust for professional oil change advice and service.

Facts About Changing the Oil in a Car

It is best to refer to your car’s manual for oil change scheduling advice and recommendations. If you do not have your car’s manual, simply contact the manufacturer, and ask for the information you need. Oil changes are meant to be changed on a regular basis, depending on the amount of driving you do, and the style of driving you use. Typically, car manufacturers recommend changing a standard automobile’s oil every three thousand miles, or every three months, or whichever comes first. For cars that are not driven as much, oil changes can be facilitated more sparingly, such as every 5,000 miles or every six to eight months.?

Not only can the amount of driving indicate when to have your oil changed, the style of driving you use can also affect this schedule. For instance, a person that drives fast and abruptly on a regular basis, or gets stuck in frequent stop-and-go traffic, may need to have their oil changed more frequently than a person that only drives to church on Sundays. Give your driving details to a professional, and they can easily determine and suggest when you should change your car’s oil.

Size and vehicle type also influence the rate of which a person should have their oil changed.? For instance, diesel engines will have a contrasting oil change schedule compared to a gasoline fuel engine.? Larger engines and vehicles burn more fuel, which may require them to have the oil changed more often.? Small gasoline-fueled engines get better fuel mileage, resulting in less frequent routine maintenance.

Where to Get Affordable Oil Changes and Car Maintenance in Indianapolis

Call Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for affordable oil changes and scheduled car maintenance in Indianapolis, Indiana. Our licensed mechanics have been helping Hoosiers repair and maintenance their vehicles for over 20 years, while offering affordable prices and reliable work. You can schedule a free inspection and estimate, anytime! We can even assist with tows! Don’t forget to mention one of our auto repair coupons or discounts to get the best deal in town.

Continue reading for a brief look at 6 common reasons why your car’s engine may be overheating all the time.

The Radiator Fluid is Low

Radiator fluid, also called coolant, keeps the motor cool during operation. When your car beings to run out of coolant, your engine is unable to effectively transfer all the heat it produces, so it overheats. This is the first place to always inspect when your car engine is overheating. Simply refill with coolant and water, and that’s it! Your vehicle should be just fine. But if that’s not it…

The Radiator is Clogged

A clogged radiator happens overtime as grease and muck builds up inside. If a car has more than 50,000 miles on it, it is at higher risk for radiator clogs. To avoid this, be sure to have your vehicle’s radiator flushed on an annual basis. This is a cheap and quick service you can get at almost any auto shop or service station.

You Have a Coolant Leak

Perhaps your car is low on coolant because it has a leak in the radiator. When a car cannot sustain its coolant levels, it cannot properly regulate heat transfer in the engine. This causes a car to overheat. 

The Coolant Fan is Malfunctioning

On the topic of coolant, it could be that the coolant fan is defective or not operating properly. This part is easy to check. Simply pop the hood and the coolant fan is located on top, next to the radiator. See if the fan is sluggish or slow. If, so it could be the cause of your engine overheating problems. It could be the electric fan, or it could be the radiator switch. An Indianapolis mechanic can figure that out for you.

The Fan Belt Broke

A broken fan belt will cause a car engine to overheat rapidly. If the fan belt is broken, it is highly likely that other engine components are malfunctioning too. Mostly older vehicles have fan belts, but they are easy to repair. All you have to do to check for a broken fan belt is look at your car’s engine.

The Thermostat is Closed

If your vehicle’s thermostat will not stay open, then your car will overheat. This is because the thermostat controls the amount of coolant released while a vehicle is in operation. If it’s defective, it cannot read the temperature and open the coolant flow as needed. This will cause overheating issues quickly.

Cheap Car Engine Repair in Indianapolis, Indiana

Call Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for professional car engine repair and service in Indianapolis, Indiana. We’re ASE certified car mechanics who provide a wide range of auto repairs and maintenance for both foreign and domestic vehicles, including major engine work. Best of all, we offer customer conveniences like free written estimates, flexible drop off and pickup hours, automotive repair coupons and discounts, and competitive pricing.

Continue reading to learn some vital automotive care and maintenance tips that can help you stay safe and save money.

Gas Mileage and Fuel Efficiency

Everyone wants to preserve as much fuel as possible in order to save money on gasoline. Here are the best ways to ensure you are:

Slow down a little when you drive, and avoid revving the gas.
Remove excess items from the trunk to reduce vehicular weight.
Stay current on all factory scheduled maintenance and minor repairs.
Carpool as often as possible.
Use alternative transportation, like bikes, buses, Ubers, and more.
Use the proper fuel grade.

Tire Care

Without proper tire maintenance, you can risk damaging several other areas of your car or truck, as well as, reduce its overall performance value. Three aspects are most important when it comes to the tires on your car or truck: matching the proper tire-type to your particular vehicle, purchasing high-quality tires, and regular tire maintenance. Be sure to regularly check your tire tread. Here in Indiana, the tire tread minimum is 2/32 of an inch for passenger car tires. Use the “penny test” to assess your tire tread. Simply insert a penny into the groove of your tire. If you can see Lincoln’s head, it means the tread is low and it is time to replace your vehicle’s tires.

Windshield Wiper Malfunctions

Although you have your windshield wipers and wiper fluid to rely on, it never hurts to have a backup plan when it comes to rain. One such hack is to use a spray-on rain resistant product. These products are perfectly safe for your car’s windshield, plus they are fairly priced and available at any local convenient store or automotive store. You can also order these products online. We Recommend Rain-X? 2-in-1 Glass Cleaner w/Rain Repellent, available at most department stores.

Car Cleanliness

Believe it or not, keeping your car clean will help it last a lot longer! This includes routine interior cleaning, such as vacuuming, dusting, and sanitizing, as well as, exterior cleaning, including the under body, windows, wheels, bumper, and all other exterior areas. Eliminating dust, dirt, and debris improves a vehicle’s performance, safety, and of course, appeal. For this reason, try to clean your car once every month. In fact, see our recent blog, “How to Wash Your Car Using the Rain” for a fun alternative to the car wash!

Factory Scheduled Car Maintenance

Factory scheduled car maintenance is vital to the overall performance, safety, and longevity of every vehicle. And it also helps with the budget since it prevents costly breakdowns and repairs. Scheduled car maintenance includes routine fluid changes, filter replacements, brake service, tire service, battery service, alignments, and more. Proper auto care reduces toxic emissions and fuel consumption, and supports a safer, more efficient operation. All this is eco-friendly and better for the environment. Check your owners’ manual for your vehicle’s suggested service schedule, and talk to your mechanic about your car’s individual needs.

Regular Inspections and Early Detections

Be sure to have your vehicle inspected regularly by a licensed mechanic. Brakes, lights, and other important components need regular inspection and service to ensure driving safety and efficiency. To determine how often your vehicle needs serviced, refer to your car’s manual, or ask a licensed auto mechanic in your area. See our blog, “Where Can I Find My Car’s Service Maintenance Schedule?” for help.

Indianapolis Automotive Maintenance and Repair at an Affordable Price

Call Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for professional automotive maintenance and repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. We’re ASE certified car mechanics who provide a wide range of auto repairs and maintenance for both foreign and domestic vehicles, including transmission repairs, fuel system repairs, and general automotive maintenance services. We also provide several amenities, such as free written estimates, flexible drop off and pickup hours, and more.