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Should I call the auto shop if...

Should I call the auto shop if...

Car trouble can be experienced in a variety of forms, and many times drivers are unsure if there is actually a problem on board or if they're just noticing something that is temporary or haven't paid attention to before. While not every odd occurrence that happens while driving will make you want to head for the auto shop there are some car issues that will likely make you ask yourself "Should I call the auto shop if..." My car is leaking fluid? Nothing should ever be dripping from your vehicle so be sure to contact your local auto shop if you notice a leak. The most common types of automotive fluid leaks include oil leaks, coolant leaks, brake fluid leaks, power steering fluid leaks and transmission fluid leaks. My car is making a strange noise? A consistent sound that suddenly arises in your car should usually be checked out by your local auto mechanic. A few common examples of car troubles that are diagnosed by sound include low brake pads, which resulting in a squea ... read more

Do Automotive Fluid Leaks Matter?

Do Automotive Fluid Leaks Matter?

So you've spotted something a small puddle under your car and it certainly isn't rain water. The little drip, drip, drip that's creating it may not seem like a big issue upon first glance, but you're going to want to do a double take. Chances are that little leak can lead to big trouble if not taken care of. Your car uses a variety of specialized fluids to operate and should they fall below their required levels numerous issues with safety and reliability can arise. Let's look at five common types of automotive fluid leaks to see what happens if they go unrepaired. Coolant Leak Your car's cooling system uses coolant, also known as antifreeze, to reduce the engine operating temperature. A coolant leak will surely lead to overheating which can result in a need for major engine repairs. Transmission Fluid Leak If you spot a reddish fluid leaking underneath the forward half of your car it is likely transmission fluid. Transmission fluid is hydraulic liquid designed to help shift gears, co ... read more

10 Numbers About Cars that Will Blow Your Mind

10 Numbers About Cars that Will Blow Your Mind

We rely on cars and trucks day in and day out to get us where we want to be, or more often, where we need to be (cough, cough, the office). Since it is so simple to jump in the driver's seat and go we often don't stop and consider what the car is comprised of or what it is capable of doing for us. The next time you're ready to go, think about these incredible facts about cars and you'll be thanking your car for all of the hard work it puts in for you! 50 - The number of organic compounds that make up that "new car smell."95 - The average vehicle spends 95 percent of its life parked.8 - In 1896 the first speeding ticket was issued to a driver traveling at 8 miles per hour in a 2 miles per hour zone.18 - The percent of American drivers capable of driving a manual transmission.6 - The number of months it would take to drive to the moon at 60 miles per hour.267 - The fastest production car ... read more

How does a car start?

How does a car start?

So you just turn the key or push the button, right? Not so fast. While it may seem easy to get your vehicle's engine up and running a complex series of events must occur. Understanding your car's starting system can help you figure out what may be going wrong if your car fails to start. The primary parts that must work together in order to get your engine spinning, which will allow it to suck in air and fuel and run on its own, include the battery, ignition switch, starter relay, battery cables and the starter motor. Here's what they do to get you moving. Battery The battery is what stores electrical power that is needed to get the other components of your vehicle moving. This power is created by the alternator, which also powers other components of the vehicle when the motor is running. If your battery dies your car won't be going anywhere. Ignition Switch The ignition switch is activated when the key is inserted into the ignition. The ignition switch has multiple positions, but turn ... read more

Common Signs of Big Trouble Under the Hood

Common Signs of Big Trouble Under the Hood

Let's face it, the engine is the heart of your car, and you wouldn't ignore your own heart if it was giving you trouble, would you? No! Keeping your heart pumping smoothly keeps you alive, which is why it is crucial to provide your car's engine with the love and attention it needs to keep beating mile after mile. While routine maintenance is the primary way to keep things running right, there may be times when you encounter issues you're unfamiliar with. By paying attention to how your engine is performing you can keep often tell if something is amiss. If you notice any of these signs of major engine trouble be sure to contact your favorite mechanic right away for proper diagnostics and repairs. Knocking Noises A knocking sound coming from under the hood often indicates worn engine bearings. These bearings are what support the motion of the engine's moving parts and should they seize due to wear or a lack of lubrication, the engine could fail completely. Always let a train ... read more

How to Choose a Great Auto Repair Shop

How to Choose a Great Auto Repair Shop

When it comes to getting auto repair it is important to research the characteristics of a shop to ensure that you're going to get great service. It is unfortunate, yet true, that there is a stigma that surrounds the auto repair industry that has to do with unnecessary upselling, erratic pricing and other issues. To avoid this and to ensure that the correct repairs needed by your vehicle are completed correctly seek out an auto shop that holds the following traits, such as Strande's Garage in Denton, TX, that way you can rest easy knowing your car or truck is in good hands. Years of Business Always use a shop that has been operating for numerous decades. The simple reason for this is that it shows they have become a reputable business in their community that is trusted by people in need of auto repair services. Strande's has been helping drivers since 1962! ASE Certified Technicians The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence is a national organization ... read more

Getting Your Car Ready for that Summer Road Trip

Getting Your Car Ready for that Summer Road Trip

March is upon on, which means the weather is getting warmer and summer is just a few months away. Now is the time families across the country start planning their route for that good ole American tradition -- the road trip. Summer is the perfect time for a road trip as the kids are often on break from school, the weather is warm and the water cool. As you prepare to head out this summer be sure to take your car's needs into consideration so you don't end up stuck on the side of the road or spending too much time at the gas station. Here's our tips on prepping your car for a road trip, and be sure to contact us before you head out for any of the following! Fluid Checks & Oil Change Your car uses a number of fluids to operate, including coolant, transmission fluid, power steering fluid, brake fluid and engine oil. If any are due for a flush do it now, and top off fluid levels as needed. If your trip is a long one, it's best to change the oil before you hit the highway. Wipers Summer ... read more

European Auto Repair - Where Luxury Meets Labor

European Auto Repair - Where Luxury Meets Labor

At Strande's Garage we love being able to help our friends, neighbors and other community members keep their vehicles from across the pond in tip top shape. It seems the Germans, Swedes and Brits have really hit the mark when it comes to engineering and building quality cars and SUVs and we take the opportunity to maintain these vehicles with the utmost gratitude, and the occasional spot of tea.When you need European auto repair in Denton we hope that you'll come see our team of ASE certified mechanics. Our highly trained team has access to the best parts available for any make and model since Strande's is a NAPA Auto Care Center. This also means that most of our auto maintenance and repair services are available with a great warranty. German Auto Repair Some of the earliest automobiles were built in Germany by Karl Benz and other famous engineers. One such man, Emil Jellinek, named his car company after his daughter, Mercedes. To ensure ... read more

Keys to Keeping Your Car Safe to Drive

Keys to Keeping Your Car Safe to Drive

With a driver's license and a car comes a lot of responsibility. When you get behind the wheel of any vehicle you are taking your life and those of all around you into your hands. At Strande's Garage we are dedicated to providing expert auto care that results in a reliable, comfortable and safe vehicle. However, we can't do our part unless you do yours. It's important to pay attention to any signs of safety concerns for your vehicle, such as the following. If you ever encounter issues that comprise the safety of your vehicle, such as the following, do not hesitate to visit us for professional, friendly car care. Worn Tires What connects your car to the ground? The tires! It is critical that you pay close attention to the condition of your tires, as you'll want to replace them as they become worn to ensure you always have proper control of your vehicle. Bald tread, cracked or bubbling sidewalls or dry-rotted rubber are all signs it's time for new tires. How long your tires will last is ... read more

Help! Why has My Car Broke Down!

Help! Why has My Car Broke Down!

We totally get it, because even as mechanics, we've been there too. A breakdown is not only frustrating, but it can be confusing, especially if your car or truck showed no signs of trouble before having issues starting, suddenly shutting off, or coming to a harsh halt. While diagnosing car trouble on the side of the road may not help you get to where you need to be any faster, perhaps after reading through these common causes of breakdowns you'll find some comfort in having some understanding of what's wrong. Remember, no matter what you drive or how new your vehicle is, all cars, trucks and SUVs are susceptible to a break down under the right, or should we say wrong, conditions. Auto Electric Failure The auto electric system in your car includes the ignition, alternator, spark plugs, starter and of course the battery. Issues with any of these components, as well as electrical relays, fuses and wiring, could contribute to a breakdown. The most common reason that you won't be able to s ... read more