MINI Repair
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MINI Cooper Problems To Know About

KEEPING YOUR MINI COOPER TROUBLE TO A MINIMUM

If you sport a MINI Cooper, you already know there’s a whole group of people who adore this little car. Some like the size and “cuteness,” while others appreciate the pep found in some of the more modern drive trains. Others fall in love with the trendsetting, yet retro interior that gives the feel of both old and new. Add modern electronics, and some liken the little vehicle to a gem on wheels. Like any make, however, the car is not without a few notable problems. Learn about the potential troubles and get great MINI Cooper repair at German Auto Repair in Watertown, CT.

Awareness Can Be Everything

The best way to head off problems is to be aware of them. For instance, there are many reports of loose timing chains (particularly prematurely–before you might expect something like that to happen). To combat this problem, bring in your car for routine service. If a technician spots the problem early, he/she can take care of that. Also, if you hear new noises or begin feeling vibration, let us check it out. These could also be signs of a loose timing chain. Left unaddressed, this issue can get worse and cause greater damage that will cost more to fix. Also, watch for water leaks. Some cars, especially those that have reached the 50,000 mile threshold, develop leaks around the thermostat housing or from the water pump. We can take care of that issue for you before your auto overheats. The power steering pump may also give trouble. In fact, this electric component was the subject of a recall in some earlier models. If you begin experiencing more difficult maneuverability, have the power steering pump checked. If it has to be replaced, also check the fan and other nearby parts. They’re within reach while the pump is off, and the fan along with low fluid is suspected to be the culprit leading to premature failure.

Also, beware of a burning odor. It could indicate a failing clutch in manual transmission models. This problem is most often reported in cars driving in high traffic areas where the clutch may be used/abused more frequently. Finally, talk with us about your transmission. The MINIs–especially the older models–show a greater-than-expected number of early automatic transmission failures. The manufacturer recommends that consumers not change the transmission fluid, while the majority of mechanics disagree, recommending periodic transmission service. We’ll be glad to discuss the pros and cons with you so that you can make a sound decision that you feel is best for your vehicle.

Reliable Assistance with Your MINI Cooper is Nearby

We understand that you love your little MINI Cooper–even if there are some known issues to watch for. We’ll help you head off trouble with preventive maintenance services and fix it when necessary. Thus, you can entrust all your MINI Cooper repairs to German Auto Repair.

Mercedes Repair
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Keeping Your Mercedes-Benz in Good Repair

MAINTENANCE TIPS FOR YOUR MERCEDES-BENZ

Most owners who purchase a Mercedes-Benz do so because they love the car line. They enjoy the comfort, appreciate the safety, and admire the styling. If you love your German vehicle that much, show it. How? By adhering to sound maintenance practices. When you take great care of your Mercedes-Benz, it’s likely to hold its value better and work well for a long time. For help with preventive services and all your Mercedes-Benz repair needs, count on the experts at German Auto Repair in Watertown, CT.

A Solid Maintenance Plan for Your German Auto

This particular automaker not only provides recommendations for the various needed service points, but the manufacturer also packages those into periodic scheduled maintenance menus called Service A and Service B. “A” should occur at the 10,000 mile or one year mark (the first of these you reach). It covers points such as oil and filter change, a tire pressure check/adjustment, fluid monitoring/top off, and brake inspection. After 20,000 miles, your car will need “B.” The prior service points are repeated, and other needs such as brake fluid change and cabin/dust filter replacement are attended to, as well. After either of these, the auto’s maintenance counter is reset.

Clearly, these routine visits are important and allow the opportunity for a certified mechanic to give your prized Mercedes-Benz the once over. However, there are also other tips you can follow yourself to help keep your car in its prime. For example, since most drivers tend to hold onto their German imports for a long time, you’ll want to keep the body and interior well maintained. This involves keeping the components inside the passenger cabin cleaned and dusted. You should also use leather conditioner to keep the seats moisturized so they won’t crack. It’s also a good idea to use a fabric protector to prevent stains on carpets and other cloth surfaces, particularly if you eat and drink in your vehicle. Outside, keep your car clean. This will help it stay free of corrosive elements. Use a good wax with UV protection to protect the paint. If you discover a tiny paint chip, touch that up before it has time to spread to surrounding paint or rust. Between service visits, keep an eye on common issues, bringing your automobile in sooner than planned if the situation warrants. Look for excessive or uneven tire wear, any visible body issues, and leaks. Also, keep a check on fluids and tire pressures.

Your Local Mercedes-Benz Maintenance Partner

When you’re ready for preventive maintenance services or repairs, German Auto Repair is your local dealership alternative for Mercedes-Benz care. We’ve been helping our neighbors keep their prized autos up to par since 2013. You can feel good about our work, knowing that we use high quality BG products and that we’re affiliated with the TechNet auto service network.

BMW Repair
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BMW (Best Maintenance Wisdom) for Your BMW

ADVICE FROM THE PROS

People who like flowers fertilize and water their gardens. People who treasure history preserve antiques and historical sites. And you love your BMW. What should you do to keep it in top shape and on the road for years to come? First, follow the manufacturer’s recommendations. Second, rely on the experts at German Auto Repair in Watertown, Connecticut, for all your service and maintenance needs.

Manufacturer’s Recommendations

As with any vehicle, if you own a BMW, you should consult your owner’s manual to ensure that you are following the manufacturer’s recommendations for service and maintenance. The manual that accompanies each model will have all the specifics for your particular car, including the suggested service schedule, the types of oil and fluids you should purchase, and other tips for keeping your luxury performance vehicle in optimal condition. Beyond the specifics for each model, there are some generalities common to BMW maintenance. First, make sure you understand what services are and are not provided with your new car purchase. BMW has an Ultimate Care Program for model years 2017 and newer that is in effect for 3 years or 36,000 miles. However, this does not cover “wear and tear” replacements, nor does it cover models prior to 2017 or vehicles that have exceeded limits. (They also offer a 4 year/50,000 mile warranty which includes service reminders and roadside assistance, and you have the option to purchase a longer maintenance package.) Therefore, second, you need to have a general idea of the recommended maintenance schedule for BMW’s. Each vehicle is equipped with a Condition Based Service (CBS) system. Sensors monitor not only mileage, but also other factors such as engine load and driving conditions. Generally, BMW recommends routine services be performed in 10,000 mile increments. For example, oil, oil filter, and coolant should be changed every 10,000 miles or once per year, whichever comes first, unless the CBS displays the indication that your car needs checking sooner. Fuel filters are typically changed around 20,000 to 40,000 miles, and spark plugs need replacing at about 60,000 miles. Brake fluid should be changed for the first time at 30,000 miles. Thereafter, it needs changing only every 60,000 miles.

Local Service

Regardless of the year or model BMW you drive, German Auto Repair, your hometown import mechanical facility, is here to help you keep your car running well. Our experts understand what your luxury import needs, and we can help you maintain the recommended service schedule as well as make needed repairs when the time comes. We know you love your car, and we want to help you keep that feeling for a long time.

Import Auto Repair
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IMPORTant Information

MAINTAINING YOUR CAR CAN PREVENT COSTLY REPAIRS

Nobody likes repair bills. Nobody. Not even people who can afford luxury cars. So how can you avoid them? The simple answer is maintenance. This is particularly important if you drive an import. Imports are known for high quality, and many are favorites for owners who enjoy luxury and performance. However, repair bills can be quite expensive for some models. While every vehicle eventually needs repairs, a well-maintained automobile will run longer and need costly parts and service less often. Further, parts for some imports are difficult to find on your own, and dealership service departments are notoriously pricey. German Auto Repair in Watertown, Connecticut, is your dealership alternative. As our name indicates, we can certainly repair your car for you, but we take preventive maintenance that extends the life of your ride and prevents a number of expensive repairs equally serious.

The True Cost of Failing to Maintain Your Import

Well known for expertise in financial matters, Forbes compiled lists of the 15 most and least expensive cars to repair. Interestingly, 11 of the 15 most expensive to repair over a 10-year span were imports, with repair costs ranging from $11,700 to a whopping $19,600. In comparison, 13 of the 15 vehicles with the lowest repair bills over a decade of driving were imports. Repair bills for those models ranged from $3,289 to $4,462. Performing routine services on a reasonable schedule can help you stretch your dollar because your car will run longer and need fewer repairs. Oil changes, for instance, are crucial. Fresh motor oil properly lubricates your moving engine parts, absorbs heat, and keeps debris and dirt particles away from your engine components where they can cause corrosion. Over time, motor oil breaks down, losing some of its essential properties and effectiveness. Continuing to run degraded oil leads to unnecessary engine wear. Checking and topping off fluids is another key factor. In addition to oil, your vehicle needs plenty of brake, transmission, and power steering fluid as well as antifreeze/coolant. Also, brake system inspection can head off small issues (such as needing brake pads) before they lead to bigger repairs (such as needing to replace rotors). And don’t forget the tires, wheels, and suspension system. Proper tire inflation and tread are crucial to both safety and the life of the tires. Periodically checking wheel alignment and correcting it if necessary saves your car from extreme tire wear and damage to suspension components.

Your Preventive Service Partner for Import Cars

Now that you see how much you can save (or lose!) given your attention to proper maintenance, you’ll likely want to schedule an appointment for routine service soon. At German Auto Repair, we’re here to help you keep your car in top shape, saving you repair bills and trouble over time.