Auto Repair San Ramon | Walt's Danville Service

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Like most Americans, you probably rely on your vehicle to get to work, get the groceries, and complete a wide range of other tasks. Your car is very important, this is why it’s essential that it is always in tip-top shape. For more vehicle-related information, check out these educational resources.

• For quality service, it’s important that you make sure that your technicians are ASE-certified. Learn more about the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence.
• If you’re going to downshift, you should do it the right way. For more information, check out this page from Edmunds.com.
• If your car is being serviced, you may need to rent a car. Learn how to rent for cheap at this page from MSNBC.
• Do you want to learn how to drive a standard transmission? Visit this page from CarTalk.com.
• How do clutches work? Find out by reading this article from HowStuffWorks.com.

For more information, call Walt’s Danville Service at (925) 394-4092. 

Do You Know the Signs Your Clutch is On its Way Out? Here Are Some Helpful Tips!

Though vehicles with automatic transmissions are easier to drive, many drivers prefer the superior gas mileage and engine control of a manual transmission. However, manual transmission drivers have to exercise a higher level of care. Here are a few tips for prolonging the life of your clutch, as well as an overview of the symptoms of a worn-out clutch.

• Don’t ride the clutch- Since manual transmissions require frequent use of the clutch, some drivers keep their feet on the clutch at all times. Though this may be easier, applying constant pressure to the clutch causes the bearing to remain spinning when it should be still, eventually leading to premature bearing failure.
• Avoid downshifting- Though many drivers downshift when slowing down, doing it too much or too aggressively can prematurely wear down your clutch. To prolong the life of your clutch, you should rely mainly on your brakes for slowing down. 
• Shift into neutral at stop lights- Once you get close to a stop light or a stop sign, it’s also a good idea to shift your vehicle into neutral. Putting the car into neutral is a great way to relieve some of the pressure from the clutch, further extending its operational life.
• When to get a clutch repair/replacement- When a clutch is in good shape, it allows for clean, easy shifting. If the clutch feels sloppy or different in any way, it could be time for a new clutch. If your clutch is going, you may be able to smell a burning rubber smell, and hear strange noises from the transmission.

If you suspect that your clutch needs to be repaired or replaced, contact Walt’s Danville Service today. While you’re here, we’ll also be happy to check your brake lights, perform a smog check, and provide any other service you may require. Call us at (925) 394-4092 for more information.

How Often Do You Check Your Vehicles Wheel Alignment?

Since your vehicle is such a complicated piece of machinery, it requires maintenance in many areas. Your alignment, for example, can suddenly or gradually change, affecting your handling and tire wear.

In this short video from Hunter Engineering Company, we learn all about changes in alignment. Since changes in alignment can occur very gradually, you won’t always be able to tell when they happen to your vehicle. Just to be safe, it’s always a good idea to have your alignment checked at regular intervals.

If it’s been a while since your alignment was last checked, come by Walt’s Danville Service today. In addition to your vehicle’s alignment, we’ll check your brakes, transmission, and other important systems. Call us at (925) 394-4092 to learn more.

The Importance of Choosing a Qualified Auto Repair Shop for Your Car's Electrical Work

No matter how reliable your vehicle is today, there will come a time when you need to get it serviced. Over time, the tires will get worn, the engine will need tuning, and the electrical components will burn out. When that time comes, you and your vehicle will benefit from a visit to a qualified auto repair shop. Here is how:

• Quick service- Considering how important your vehicle is to your daily life, being without it can make matters very difficult. Still, your electrical systems need to be working properly in order to keep you safe and in compliance with the law. Luckily, taking your vehicle into an efficiently-run auto repair shop can quickly ensure that your systems are in tip-top shape.
• Reliable repairs- Though you may be able to get a quick fix from a neighborhood repair shop, nothing beats the permanent solutions offered by a qualified auto repair shop. When you walk into an auto repair shop, ask if any of the technicians are certified by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence—if they are, that means you can expect a high-quality, long-lasting repair.   
• Money well spent- Many car owners who are anxious about spending money get sub-par repair jobs at low-quality auto repair shops. Most of the time they end up spending more money for the right repairs later on. Getting your brake lights, air conditioning, and other electrical systems repaired at a qualified auto repair shop will save you money in the long run.

If you’re looking for a reliable auto repair shop in San Ramon, contact Walt’s Danville Service. With ASE-certified technicians and warranties on all parts and labor, Walt’s offers the finest service around. We can even help you get a rental car while you wait for your repairs to be finished. For more information, call us at (925) 394-4092.

Enjoy Our Recent Automotive Blog Resources!

Not every driver has the basic car maintenance knowledge. Broaden your knowledge of handling problems such as an illuminated check engine light or a particularly dirty cloud of exhaust billowing from the muffler by checking out these resources:

• Learn more about California’s smog certification program and vehicles eligible for exemption by reading this smog information guide from the California DMV.
• Discover the details of automobile emissions and the accompanying regulations by reading this emissions overview from the EPA.
• Check out this article on how spark plugs work. Click on the link to learn more about this vital car part, and the role it plays in today’s standard and high-performance engines.
• Check engine lights can signal something as simple as a loose gas cap or as complicated as a multi-system problem requiring advanced diagnostic services. Read this article to learn the steps you should take if yours lights up.
• Read this article to learn how car computers work—you don’t need to be an electrical engineer to understand the basics!

Whether you’re dealing with check engine lights, transmission problems, or a new noise coming from your engine or suspension, you can count on Walt’s Danville Service to find the source of your automotive troubles. Call our shop at (925) 394-4092 to put an end to your vehicular headaches.