GERALD's TIRES & BRAKES

Don't Panic
Well we've said it already in the disclaimer but it is important that we repeat this bit of advice;
Please, always get a second opinion on your automotive problems. Don't worry about finding the perfect mechanic or shop it's easy if you simply follow a few simple steps.

• Ask at least five "local" types where they go and who they would recommend. Another good source for information can be your local Better Business Bureau.
• When you find a candidate call them up and make sure they offer free estimates on basic work like brakes, front-end, tires etc.

When dealing with a repair shop...

• Remember that automotive electrical problems are best fixed by an "auto-electric" specialty shop. Shops like these focus on the electrical aspect of automotive repair.
• A good mechanic is a wonderful thing. If you find one stay with him! He may cost a little more but the piece of mind is worth it in the long run.
• Beware of ultra low prices! Often times shops that have unbelievably low prices can have a lack of experience in their employee pool, they can be under-insured and may have out of date equipment.
• If you have a choice, let a perspective shop do a small job for you. Examine the way they do the work to justify paying for a bigger job.
• Always give detailed descriptions about your problems. They more information about when, what & where the problem is coming from the better.
• Make sure you write on the invoice that you only want an estimate first! Also, if your dealing from a quote make sure the total price is written down. No surprises is the name of the game.

Mighty Maintenance
The do's and don'ts of car care...

Do's
Don'ts

• Always get a second and third opinion on a potential repair
• Read your owners manual and follow what it says
• Check the air pressure in your tires
• Garage-keep your car if possible
• Align your car at least once a year or after an driving "encounter"
• Use cruise control on flat highways
• Shift down to slow your car down if you have a manual transmission.

• Don't floor it or even "push it" after you start your car
• Don't peel out, it's rough on your transmission as well as your tires. Stop and take off gradually
• Don't constantly "tap" the accelerator pedal
• Don't leave your windows down at high speeds. I can cost you up to ten percent more on gas.
• Don't run your car with a nearly empty tank. This can cause dirt and debris to enter your system.

Maintenance Schedule
Every 2 weeks or 3,000 miles:

• Check engine oil, transmission fluid and coolant
• Check tire pressure

Once a month or 1,000 miles:

• Check belts and hoses
• Check brake fluid
• Wash & wax your car
• Check the transmission fluid

Every 3 months or 3,000 miles:

• Change oil and oil filter (every 6 months or 3,000 miles)
• Lube the chassis
• Check all drive belts (fan belts) frayed or cracked belts

Every 6 months or 6,000 miles:

• Rotate the tires.

Every 12 months or 12,000 miles:

• Flush radiator, replace anti-freeze, check air conditioning system.
• Replace air filters.
• Lubricate chassis.

Every 2 years or 24,000 miles:

• Replace spark plugs (30,000 miles average suggested for unleaded gas)
• Change PC valve
• Change automatic transmission fluid, filter and pan gasket
• Inspect brake linings

Every 3 years or 30,000 miles:

• Check and test ignition wires
• Test cooling system and heating hoses
• Check drive belts
• Replace fluid in differential and manual transmission

Every 50,000 miles:

• Check brake shoes
• Inspect suspension