E-testing Kitchener- If you live in Ontario you've probably heard about E-testing. But what exactly is E-testing? It is an emissions test, also known as a Drive Clean test and older vehicles must pass it in order to get registered and licensed. If you need to get a Drive Clean test done, trust the experts at Hansma Automotive to do it right.
Why do I need an Ontario Safety Inspection?
I need to buy a used vehicle so why do I need an Ontario safety inspection? In Ontario you must, by law, obtain an Ontario safety standards certificate if you want to register a motor vehicle. If you require a safety inspection to get your safety standards certificate, then contact the professionals at Hansma Automotive.
Honda Accord Problems
With a reputation as a reliable car, Honda Accord problems have been quite low, nevertheless it has had its problem years - this despite consistently been a popular car in Canada, with sales ranking 13th in 2016 and 15th in 2015. In this post, we will take a look at some of the more troubled years and their specific problems. Contact us if you are looking for a reliable auto repair facility for your Honda Accord.
Brake Repair Kitchener
Brake repair isn't something you want to leave to chance. In Kitchener you don't have to. Have the automotive experts at Hansma regularly check and maintain your brakes so that you can have peace of mind that they will always be in prime working condition especially in an emergency situation. Brake failure is one of the leading causes of accidents in Canada. But it doesn't have to happen to you; you can keep brakes in good working condition. Hansma Automotive is able to provide full brake maintenance solutions, as well as other vehicle maintenance solutions.
Ontario License Plate Stickers - All You Need To Know
Your birthday is coming soon and your mind is filled with party plans. But don't forget to renew your Ontario license plate sticker before you blow out your candles. If you are a first time vehicle owner or even if you a little rusty on the rules governing Ontario license plate sticker, then read on. In this post we will discuss why you need to renew, where you can renew, how long it lasts and how much it costs. If your vehicle requires a drive clean test or safety inspection before you can renew your stickers then contact the professionals at Hansma Automotive.
Toyota Camry Car Problems
In this post we will list some of the most common Toyota Camry problems as reported by Camry owners. If you need to repair your Toyota Camry in Kitchener or the surrounding area, consider Hansma Automotive. Listed below are some of the well known Toyota Camry problems that your vehicle may experience, including excessive oil consumption, erratic shifting and foul smells coming from the air conditioning. Contact us today to repair your Toyota Camry.
Car Won't Start - How to Get it Running Again
Waking up in the morning only to find your car won't start is immensely frustrating. This post will tell you some of the potential issues and includes a video explaining how you might be able to get it running again. Contact us if none of these methods work.
6 Quick And Easy Steps To Reduce your Car Maintenance
How can you reduce your car expenses? Here are 6 quick and easy steps to reduce your car maintenance costs. Follow these steps, some of which require you to make simple repairs. More complicated issues should be handled by a professional. If your car is in need of more than simple, basic repairs then call us for help.
7 Steps To Improve the Longevity of Your Vehicle
You've made a large investment in your vehicle, so it's important to do everything you can to make it last as long as possible. In this post, we have compiled 7 steps to improve the longevity of your vehicle. Extending the life of your investment can be as simple as having it detailed regularly, checking the pressure of your tires, or getting regular oil changes. Contact us to schedule regular maintenance.
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1. Follow Your Vehicle's Recommended Maintenance Schedule
Read your car manual and take note of the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule. Regular maintenance for your cooling system, drive train, suspension and other components will help prevent costly repairs. It will also enable you to take advantage of the manufacturer's full warranty.
2. Keep Your Vehicle Clean
Regular washing and waxing of your vehicle will help to preserve the paint. It also will help protect against rust. And don't forget to clean the interior of your vehicle as well. Vacuuming will help to prolong the life of your carpet and upholstery. You can usually clean your vehicle inside and out in a couple of hours. If you don't have time to detail your own vehicle have the professionals at Hansma Automotive do it for you.
3. Take Care of Your Tires
Your tires will last longer if you keep them properly inflated. Make sure you pay special attention as the seasons change. To prevent uneven or premature wear and tear, have them rotated as specified by the manufacturer and properly aligned. You can get your tires rotated and properly aligned in about 2 hours or less.
4. Make your Brakes Last Longer
Your driving style can affect the longevity of your brakes. If you are in the habit of speeding up and hitting the brakes hard when you need to stop, your brakes will wear down much faster than by timing your stopping, allowing the vehicle to slow down gradually before hitting the brakes. Not only will this style of driving help your brakes to last longer, but it will also cut down on your gas consumption.
5. Change Your Oil Regularly
Having regular oil changes will not only protect your engine but it will also improve your gas mileage. It is recommended that you change your oil every 5000 to 8000 kilometers or every 3 to 6 months. Regular oil changes could help your vehicle to last up to 320,000 kilometers or more. Make sure you change your oil filter at the same time. It's redundant to have clean oil going through a dirty filter and filters are relatively cheap to replace. You can usually get an oil and filter change for around $50 and it can be done in under an hour. Check your owner's manual for your vehicle's specific recommendations.
6. Take Care of your Battery
Your car battery should last your a number of years, however, improper care can greatly decrease its lifespan. Make sure you keep your battery and it connections clean. If they are dirty, you can clean them with a tablespoon of baking soda dissolved in water. Avoid running accessories like your GPS, stereo, etc. for prolonged periods with the engine running. If you don't drive your vehicle for extended periods, you may want to keep it healthy by using a solar battery charger.
7. Windshield Wiper Care
Many people simply use their windshield wipers until they wear out, but there are some simple steps you can take to make them last longer. Once a month you can clean the rubber portion with denatured alcohol (91%). You could also clean them with very fine sandpaper (1000 to 2000 grit). This will keep the rubber flexible to help them adhere tighter to the glass. It is also good to remember that only the rubber portion of the wiper usually needs to be replaced, not the entire blade. Some blades can only be replaced in entirety, so check with an automotive professional to see your options. Replacing your windshield wipers can be done in under an hour.
Hansma Automotive
Bring your vehicle to Hansma Automotive for its regular scheduled maintenance, which can usually be done in an hour or two. The staff at Hansma Automotive is always more than happy to assist you. If you are busy and don't have the time to wait around while your vehicle is repaired, you can take advantage of our handy shuttle service. Hansma Automotive is conveniently located at 88 Shoemaker Street in Kitchener, Ontario.
Sources
7 Ways to Make Your Whole Vehicle Last Longer From Wheels to Wipers
How to Extend the Life of your Car
Top 10 Tips to Maintain your Car
Windshield wiper photo By Wesha (Own work) [GFDL (http://www.gnu.org/copyleft/fdl.html) or CC BY-SA 3.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0)], via Wikimedia Commons
Car Battery photo By No machine-readable author provided. Shaddack assumed (based on copyright claims). [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons.
Car Squeals When Turning - What Should I Do?
If you notice that your car squeals when turning, you probably have a problem with your power steering system. It could be caused by low power steering fluid; a worn or loose belt; or a failing power steering pump. Your power steering system helps you to control the wheels while you are steering by using hydraulic or electric actuators (a type of small motor). If your vehicle has a hydraulic system, a belt connected to the engine powers a hydraulic pump. This pump send fluid to a cylinder which helps you turn the steering wheel. If your vehicle has an electric system (which is common in newer vehicles), an electric motor helps you turn the wheel. If your power steering isn't working, then turning the wheel, especially at lower speeds becomes very difficult. If you are not sure about what is causing the squealing noise contact us for a professional assessment.
My Engine Sounds Like A Race Car - Should I Be Worried?
You're happily driving down the street and suddenly you hear an unfamiliar engine noise that is making your car sound like a race car. What could be causing it and should you be alarmed? In this post we will take a look at five common engine noises and discuss what might cause them as well as some possible solutions. If you hear an unusual noise and suspect that there might be a problem and you are not sure what it is, bring it to us. Our professional mechanics will have a look at it and then provide you with expert service to solve the issue.
What Services Should Car Owners Expect Car Detailers To Include In Their Cleaning Package?
Have you ever wondered what services are included in a car detailer package? You will find that there can be a wide variety of services offered by different car detailers. In this post, we will discuss the key services that should be part of a package. These would include paint protection;chassis and wheel care; headlights, taillights and trim; and interior cleaning. Come in and see our vehicle detailing specialist today or call us to book an appointment.
Your Exhaust System - Muffler Definition
Most people know that they have a muffler on their vehicle, but would they be able to give you a simple muffler definition? The Collins English Dictionary defines a muffler as "any device designed to reduce noise, especially the tubular device containing baffle plates in the exhaust system of a motor vehicle." In this post we will break down that muffler definition and describe in easy to understand terms how a muffler works. Contact us if you think your muffler is not working properly.
What Are Engine Sensors and What Happens When They Fail? - Part 2
In our post "What are Engine Sensors and What Happens When They Fail? Part 1" we defined what an engine sensor was and discussed the function of oxygen, coolant and throttle position sensors as well as the consequences when these components fail. We'll continue our discussion of engine sensors in this post looking this time at map airflow, crankshaft position, vehicle speed and manifold air pressure sensors.If you notice your engine light come on, then you may have a problem with one of these sensors. If you need an engine sensor replaced, book an appointment with one of the reliable and trustworthy staff at Hansma Automotive.
What Are Engine Sensors and What Happens When They Fail? - Part 1
Engine sensors play a vital role in the smooth running of your vehicle. They send important data to your car's Powertrain control module (PCM) allowing it to make critical control decisions. Engine sensors work similar to the nerves in the human body sending messages to our brains. Without accurate data from these sensors, the PCM is unable to function properly thus having a negative effect on emissions, drivability and performance.
What Do The Numbers On Tires Mean? Tire Sizes Explained
Have you ever wondered, "What do the numbers on tires mean?" In this post, you will find these mysterious tire sizes explained. If you still have questions about the best tires for your vehicle after reading, talk to a professional at a repair shop you can trust. The knowledgeable staff at Hansma Automotive can effectively address any of your concerns.
How To Choose A Car Detailer
If you take pride in your car, but haven't got the time or expertise to care for it yourself; you should find a car detailer who can do it for you. But how do you know which one to choose? In this blog we'll explore some questions you can ask and why those questions are important to help you make an educated decision. Questions like, "Do their services meet your needs?", "Do they have a reputation for quality?", "Is their pricing competitive?", and "What are their hours of service?" At Hansma Automotive we offer professional, high quality car detailing at a fair price. If you want to find out more, contact us.
Top 5 Apps For A Car Owner
From the myriad of applications currently on the market we've selected the top 5 Apps that every car owner should consider using. With so many different apps available, it may be daunting to know which ones would best suit your driving needs. We've reviewed a cross-section of navigational aids, dashboard cameras, engine diagnostics, and even apps that will help you save money and put together our top 5 picks.
My Radiator Coolant is leaking - What Should I Do?
How do I know if my car is leaking radiator coolant? There are several signs to look out for if you think that your car is leaking radiator coolant. If it is a small leak, you may be able to fix it using a sealant preparation which you can purchase from a reliable shop. More complicated problems such as leaks in the radiator seam or leaks in cars with plastic coolant tanks should be repaired by a professional. If your car is leaking radiator coolant then call us for help.
How To Know If Your Car Transmission Needs Repair or Replacement
In this post, we talk chiefly about transmission issues that may prevent your vehicle from running properly. Specifically, we will help you understand your transmission's role in your car and signs that it may require repair. If your car is not running properly, book an appointment with Hansma Automotive for professional help.