Mike's Brake & Alignment Shop

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Tag: auto shop (page 3 of 4)

Why Do You Need To Hire a Good Mechanic for Your Car?

September 23, 2022 / / 0 Comments

Vehicles have massively complex systems and are an expensive investment. Keeping your vehicles in tip-top shape requires a lot of time, money, and effort. Mostly, just to save some money, car owners tend to service their own cars or get their cars repaired by a friend. But trust us, this can easily damage your car especially if you have limited experience repairing vehicles. Therefore, it is always recommended to hire a professional mechanic to service your vehicle to ensure optimal safety on the road and that it runs well for years to come. To help you understand better, we have listed some of the reasons why it’s important to hire a knowledgeable and reputable mechanic to work on your car.

1. Professional services for repair and maintenance.

When you’re not constantly upkeeping and maintaining your vehicle, a minor fault can end up becoming a huge problem. Therefore, hiring a professional auto mechanic becomes important because an experienced mechanic will inspect your vehicle and diagnose the problem to offer you a fast repair. They will also ensure that your other car components, such as the engine, brakes, transmission, and belts, are also functioning correctly.

Related: “Tips for Choosing the Right Mechanic”

2. A knowledgeable mechanic can save you money.

Hiring a skilled auto mechanic will save you not only money, but also time. An experienced mechanic will provide you with an excellent value for your money and reduce your bills with efficient and quick fixes. But if you refer to a less reputable mechanic, there’s a chance you will end up increasing your repair cost without the problem being properly resolved. Be sure to research your local auto shops and compare their estimated prices before continuing.

3. They will help you prevent future problems.

Do you want to reduce future maintenance? Then hiring a knowledgeable and highly-rated mechanic is the smartest choice you can make. A professional auto mechanic will address all the vehicle issues, providing you with the peace of mind that all repairs are fully covered and carried out under guarantee.

Related: “Basic Tire Maintenance Every Driver Should Know”

Find Your Professional Mechanic Today!

Your vehicle can have a variety of different issues. Sometimes these problems can be fixed and repaired with some slight adjustments, whereas other times, these vehicle issues can be a complete mystery. Therefore, hiring a knowledgeable mechanic means you won’t have to wait long for your vehicle to get fixed.

If you’re looking for an auto mechanic in Fort Worth, TX, come to Mike’s Brake & Alignment Shop when you need a knowledgeable mechanic for your car. Contact us at (817) 834-2725 today to find out exactly how we can help you keep your car in perfect running condition. Please feel free to explore our online website to learn more about us.

Brake Maintenance Guide

April 6, 2022 / / 0 Comments

The interior setup of your car’s braking system is quite complex and surprisingly very easy to maintain. A braking mechanism is essential to your car’s performance and your safety. If it fails at any time, you could face consequences of your neglect. Here is a step-by-step guide for you to follow and learn basic maintenance of your car’s braking system so that you’re prepared.

  1. Inspect the Brakes and Brake Pads 

The first step is to check the brakes and brake pads of your car. If either is worn out, it is time to get them replaced. A general rule of the thumb is to get the brake pads checked once every year. If they are too worn out, replace them with new ones to ensure smooth performance for your vehicle. 

2. Check the Brake Fluid 

Your brake fluid is responsible for the transfer of heat generated throughout your car’s system. If you see that your brake fluid is of a dark color, it is time to get it changed. It’s best to flush the brake fluid out to avoid any sort of moisture build-up which is damaging to the car. Then, fill the brake oil after bleeding the brake lines to avoid any excess air into the system. 

3. Upgrade the Brakes

Technology has introduced easy updates that you can do to improve the condition and overall performance of your car. If you are at the mechanic’s shop for replacing the brakes, consider upgrading them. Ceramic brake pads are quieter and produce less brake dust. Similarly, you can opt for slotted disc brakes since they are more heat resistant and durable than traditional parts. 

Conclusion 

Your brakes are your first line of defense against any sort of road accident. Keeping them in top form is essential for your safety and car’s performance. If you don’t have time to look after your braking system, hire the professionals at Mike’s Brake & Alignment Shop to do it for you. We provide professional mechanical services specializing in brakes and alignment of vehicles. Give us a call 817-834-2725 at for any assistance and check out our website to see a comprehensive list of services.

Tips for Choosing the Right Mechanic

October 22, 2021 / / 0 Comments

Not only are vehicles an expensive investment that require constant upkeep and maintenance, they’re also indispensable and invaluable. These machines are required by millions around the world every day to commute to work, receive health care, visit family and for tourism. Keeping your vehicles in tip top shape year round with help from a loyal mechanic will ensure optimal safety on the road and that the vehicle will run well for years to come. Continue along below for our quick guide made to help you find the right mechanic every time!

What to Look For

  •  Certifications – If your mechanic or auto shop can prove that they have received various certifications then you can rest assured knowing they’ve conformed to a certain set of regulatory industry standards. Some certifications to look for include ASE, AAA, and ASA.
  • Free Estimates – Mechanics should always be able to provide a free estimate for your desired service before they begin any actual work. Even if you’re pretty confident in the legitimacy of your mechanic you should still get a binding written estimate regarding the services they plan to perform.
  • A Second Opinion – Taking the time to get a second opinion can end up saving you countless time and money in the long run. You can get a second opinion from a knowledgeable friend, another mechanic, or even with a thorough internet search.

What to Avoid

  •  Vagueness – If your mechanic cannot or does not provide an explanation of their plans or concerns in layman’s terms you may want to walk away. A major part of a mechanics job is to translate difficult mechanical issues into plain English, explain to car owners what the problem is, and why it needs to be fixed.
  • Intimidation – Some mechanics have a bad reputation for providing unnecessary services, essentially taking advantage of customers who are none the wiser. Be weary of mechanics who attempt to scare you into purchasing services they’ve described as being dire or emergent, as that’s not always true.

Final Thoughts

While most auto mechanics are legitimate business owners that do a great job of repairing both new and used vehicles, it’s always best to do a bit of vetting before handing over your keys for a repair. When you choose Mike’s Brake & Alignment Shop in Fort Worth, TX you are choosing a local family owned and operated business with nearly twenty years of proven success. Visit our website for a full list of our services or contact us today for your free auto estimate!

How to Jump Start a Car’s Battery

August 23, 2021 / / 0 Comments

Eventually most car owners have to face jump starting other vehicles or needing their vehicle jump started due to battery issues. Oftentimes when car batteries die all they need is a quick electrical recharge from another vehicles battery to return to normal. Reasons for dead car batteries range from leaving on interior and exterior lights to extreme temperatures. Follow along below this month as we describe step-by-step how to jump start a car’s battery.

Items You Will Need

  • Jumper Cables
  • Gloves
  • Owner’s Manual

Important Tips

  • Read your owner’s manual first. Your manufacturer may advise against jump starting a vehicle due to sensitive electronic circuitry.
  • Don’t try to jump a frozen battery.
  • Do NOT jump a battery that is cracked or leaking. This is very dangerous. You will need to purchase a new battery at this point, so call a tow truck or a friend that can help you out.

Step 1: Park vehicles close together so that the jumper cables will easily reach both batteries. Turn off both engines, put on gloves, and properly lock both vehicle’s engine hoods in their upright positions. Remove any tangles from the jumper cables and be sure to not let any of the four metal ends touch one another.

Step 2: Once you’ve located the batteries (check owner’s manual if not sure), identify the two post “terminals”. One is positive (+) and usually red while the other one is negative (-) and usually black. Remove any plastic or rubber protecting the terminals so that you expose the metal beneath.

Step 3: Grab one of the POSITIVE (red) clamps on the jumper cables and attach it to the dead car’s positive terminal post (+ or red). The clamps should have metal teeth that help them grip the terminal post.

Step 4: With both vehicles still turned off, take the POSITIVE (red) clamp at the opposite end of the cables and attach it to the positive terminal post of the good, working battery.

Step 5: Take the NEGATIVE (black) clamp on that same end and attach to the negative terminal of the good, working battery.

Step 6: Take the final NEGATIVE (black) clamp and attach it to negative terminal of the car that is being jump-started.

Step 7: Triple check that all negative and positive terminals are correctly connected before starting the vehicle of the car with the good, working battery. Allow the vehicle to run this way for 3-5 minutes. You can now try to start the dead car as normal. If the engine does not start allow the battery to charge for several more minutes before trying again. At this point both cars should be on and running successfully.

Step 8: Working in reverse order, unhook each of the clamps from the terminals without ever letting the ends touch one another. Safely store jumper cables, remove gloves, and return engine hoods to their normal positions.

Final Thoughts

Engine and battery issues are almost always unexpected and tend to occur at the most inconvenient times. The next time your vehicle won’t start or produces an odd noise or smell, call on the local mechanics at Mike’s Brake & Alignment Shop in Fort Worth, TX. We are committed to making sure all of our customers are happy with our work and safe on the road.

Best Safety Practices for Car Repairs

February 23, 2021 / / 0 Comments

Whether you are tackling your vehicle’s oil change or replacing its brake pads, safety should always be the highest priority. Anytime you are working on your vehicle there is opportunity to invest in improved safety practices, methods, and standards. Below we discuss a few simple ways anyone working on their car can take to ensure that they are always maintaining safety first and foremost.

Fire Safety

As a result of cars being filled with many types of gases and oils, they are incredibly flammable pieces of machinery. To ensure you are best protected against fires when working on your vehicle be sure to always keep a fire extinguisher on hand and close by. It’s also crucial to secure and protect your workspace from any smoke, open flames, or other combustible materials.

Protective Gear

Depending on the type of repair you are attempting, a number of protective items can be of great use. Gloves are a great idea when working with anything oily or hot, goggles should be used whenever working with dirt, drills, or high heat hazards, and ear protection should be used whenever sanders, horns, shopvacs, loud engines and drills are in use.

Electrical Safety

Whether or not you are working on an electrical repair for your vehicle, you need to be aware of electrical risks and the necessary precautions. Electricity runs through vehicles via their wires and batteries which is why always disconnecting the battery before beginning maintenance or repairs is crucial. Even if the vehicle is turned off there is still potential for electrical currents to pass through the batteries and wires which can result in injury.

Final Thoughts

Working on a car can be very dangerous whenever best safety practices and protections are not taken seriously. Before you or someone you love attempts a repair or maintenance service on their car, share with them some of these best practices. Or better yet, take your car to a reputable and trustworthy mechanic in your local area. Fort Worth, TX residents should visit Mike’s Brake & Alignment Shop, call us at (817) 834- 2725, or visit our website here for more information about our expert services.

Synthetic vs. Conventional Oil

January 29, 2021 / / 0 Comments

Your owner’s manual will tell you what kind of motor oil your engine needs to perform at its best. It is important to know that not every oil is the same, so carefully read the manual to figure out which oil your vehicle requires. Most cars are designed to take conventional oil, while high-performance vehicles may need synthetic. Follow along in our blog as we discuss the distinct differences between conventional and synthetic oil.

Conventional Oil

Let’s talk about conventional oil first. It’s designed to be a reliable lubricant for the engine. Taking a closer look at its natural state, conventional oil is an oil that has been distilled and then refined directly from crude oil. Crude oil is a fossil fuel consisting of hydrogen and carbon compounds that is found in nature. It’s an accessible resource, making it cheaper to produce and therefore more affordable. However, with synthetic oil, the benefits might outweigh the cost.

Synthetic Oil

The next best oil for your car is synthetic. Unlike conventional oil, it is manufactured in a lab and engineered for performance. Synthetic oil also is cleaner and runs cleaner, due to refinement processes that remove deposits and the presence of additives that can help clean the engine. This means that the oil doesn’t need to be changed as often. Although synthetic oil costs more, many owners like the effectiveness and durability.

Final Thoughts

If you have questions about motor oil, the expert technicians at Mike’s Brake & Alignment Shop can help. We are dedicated to your automotive needs, so please do not hesitate to reach out. You can visit us online for more information or call 817-834-2725 to schedule a service.

“Where Honesty, Quality, and Safety Come First” – Mike’s Brake & Alignment Shop

Common Power Steering Problems (And How to Fix Them)

November 27, 2020 / / 0 Comments

Most parts of your vehicle do not need hands-on control – except for your power steering wheel. The system is directly controlled by the driver, so if loss of control happens, then driving on the road becomes more hazardous. The power steering is a top-safety concern for car manufacturers and should be a concern for you too. In this blog, we are going to discuss general power steering problems and how to fix them.

Stiff Steering

When your power steering becomes rigid and unresponsive, you might assume that you are low on power steering fluid. However, this problem can also be linked to an electrical issue. Some of these problems may include faults with the wiring, connections, and even low battery voltage. A quick fix to this issue is to turn off your car and restart it. See your mechanic if the problem persists.

Loss of Hydraulic Power

If you are struggling to turn your wheel, this is most likely due to the loss of hydraulic power. The reasoning behind this loss of power is from a low amount of fluid in your power steering system. Check the fluid level and see if you need a refill. While you are inspecting, also be wary of cracks in the hydraulic lines, defective components, and so on. Visit a mechanic for a more detailed inspection.

Grinding/Squealing During Turns

Are you hearing unpleasant noises, such as shrieking or grinding? Your power steering wheel is telling you that there’s something wrong with the belt drive. Most of the time, you can tighten or adjust the belt drive to get rid of the noises. It’s recommended to have a professional mechanic take a look.

Conclusion

We hope the information in this blog can help you identify power steering problems with your vehicle. You can schedule an inspection for your power steering wheel by contact our team at Mike’s Brake & Alignment Shop for professional services. We look forward to serving you!

Basic Steps for Changing a Tire

September 25, 2020 / / 0 Comments

Getting a flat tire on the road isn’t something you planned; however, you can solve the problem with a simple fix. With a couple of tools and a little bit of car knowledge, you can be back on the road in no time. From finding a safe location to change your tire to jacking up the car, we have organized a list of what to do when you need to change a flat tire.

1) Park in a Safe Place

Whether you are on the side of the freeway or in a shopping center, try to park away from any traffic if you can. Make sure your hazard lights are on, letting the cars around you know you are stopped. Once you have found a safe location, observe your surroundings to find a flat surface. A flat surface allows the jack to sit evenly. Also, apply the parking brake to ensure you don’t roll.

2) Remove the Hubcap and Loosen the Lug Nuts

If your vehicle has a hubcap covering the lug nuts, it’s easier to remove the hubcap before lifting the vehicle with the jack. If your lug nuts are exposed, you can skip this step. After removing the hubcap, loosen the lug nuts, but don’t remove them completely. Use as much force as necessary.

3) Place the Jack and Raise the Vehicle to Remove Flat

To replace your tire, you are going to need a jack to raise the vehicle off the ground. You can find one located in the truck in your car. Refer to the owner’s manual to find where the jack is needs to be positioned. Next, crank the vehicle at least 6 inches on the ground and start removing the lug nuts. Once removed, carefully remove the flat tire.

4) Position Spare Tire and Tighten Lug Nuts

Mount the spare tire and align it with the lug nut bolts. Next, place the lug nuts on the bolts and tighten until they are secure. Now, you can finally lower your jack and place the hubcap back on. Place your equipment and flat tire back in your car.

Conclusion

The final recommended step is taking your car to the nearest auto shop, such as Mike’s Brake Alignment Shop. We are dedicated to your automotive needs, including tire services, repairs, and more. Call 817-834-2725 to schedule an auto service today!

How to Identify Fluids in Your Car

July 27, 2020 / / 0 Comments

At one point or another, you are going to find liquid underneath your car. However, do you know how to identify the liquid and where it’s coming from? You can investigate the situation by taking a closer look at the color. Identifying the color will help you understand which system is losing fluid, giving you the chance to plan accordingly. It’s not an emergency if its clear water, but other colors may indicate something more serious. Learn how to identify the fluids in your car by reading our blog!

Brown/Black Fluid

When you notice black or brown fluid, it’s most likely engine oil. It will be slick to the touch and hard to wipe off. Cars.com also comments, “oil can leak from gaskets and seals on the front or rear of an engine, from valve covers or from the oil pan underneath, so there are several possible sources of an oil leak.” If you have identified where it’s coming from, you can refill the oil and take it to your nearest auto shop for a diagnosis or repair.

Red Fluid

Transmission fluid can be identified by its reddish color and odorless scent. You can further investigate by looking near the front or middle of the car for the leak. If the transmission fluid is low, fill as needed. Gold Eagle urges to “keep in mind that driving your car without enough of transmission fluid can keep the gears from shifting smoothly and might even damage the transmission, so it’s important to ensure you have enough.”

Yellow Fluid

Yellow, green, and pink are just some of the colors of engine coolant. Besides the rainbow of colors, another indicator of this fluid is its slimy texture and sweet smell. Some of the places you might find your coolant leaking includes the radiator, coolants hoses, and overflow tank. Your mechanic can confirm if the fluid is coolant and repair any parts if needed.

Conclusion

If you have further questions about your fluid leak, contact the team at Mike’s Brake & Alignment Shop. We are here to provide you with expert automotive services so you can drive safely on the road. Get your vehicle serviced by calling 817-834-2725 today!

Coolant System Parts You Should Check Regularly

April 30, 2020 / / 0 Comments

Are you constantly having issues with your car’s engine? One of the top reasons why your engine may be failing is because of the coolant system. This part of your vehicle works hard to prevent the engine from freezing or overheating. However, your coolant system may need a full inspection to ensure each part is working properly. To keep your engine in good shape, continue reading to find out which coolant parts need to be checked.

Heater and Radiator Hoses

In order for the coolant to move throughout the system, hoses are used to direct where the coolant needs to go. You can check on these hoses when the engine is cool. Some things to look for is cracking, fraying, or swelling. Also, make sure that the hoses are secured correctly. Any loose-fitting parts can have a major effect on the entire system.

Heater Core

The heater core allows for the cabin air to warm up when you have your engine running. It also helps the coolant lose heat before returning to the radiator to be cooled down. AutoZone suggests to “inspect for signs of leakage indicated by fluid around the heater core or wet spots on your carpet. Constant presence of fog on the inside of your windshield can also mean that your heater core needs replacing.”

Radiator Fluid

Your coolant reservoir needs to be filled with an even mixture of antifreeze and water to get the right amount of cool air. You can check to see if the radiator fluid needs a refill if it doesn’t reach the “full” line. To prevent damage to your coolant system, fill with antifreeze as needed. If you’re unsure about the fluid ratio, contact your local auto mechanic.

Conclusion

Your car’s engine depends on the coolant system, which allows for optimal performance when driving. If you’re running into complications with the engine or other parts of your vehicle, schedule an appointment at Mike’s Brake & Alignment Shop. Our mechanics ensure customer satisfaction with every service, so visit us today!

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