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Greetings!
Welcome to Pioneer Auto Service’s December 2007 Newsletter
Auto Theft and Prevention
Car thefts and burglary are becoming more and more common everyday. A large number of cars are stolen by amateurs as well as experienced criminals for a number of purposes such as re-sale or parts that can be sold to foreign markets. With today’s advanced car accessories and parts, it is no wonder that such crimes are being committed. Therefore, it is always better to be prepared for facing such situations. The best way to protect your car and its car accessories is to secure your car with burglar alarms and sensors, which notify you whenever a suspicious act is being performed.
The Best Car Service Center in San Ramon
Pioneer Auto Service is equipped with the latest computerized equipment, providing them with access to the auto manufacturers’ original and up-to-date specifications for your vehicle
Pioneer Auto Service is also a Smog Check Test-and-Repair Center that conforms to the standards set by the state of California.
Here are a few security gadgets that will help you to protect your car:
Door Opening Alarms
Opening the car doors with a pocketknife is a common tactic used by most criminals to steal cars. With the help of door opening alarms, an alarm is raised immediately whenever someone tries to force open the doors of your car.
Glass Breaking Sensors
Most thieves believe that alarms are turned on only when a door of the car is opened. These thieves break the glass to get inside the car. They normally do not anticipate glass-breaking sensors, but your car can be equipped with devices that detect the sound of breaking glass. The alarms connected to these sensors are turned on when it hears the sound of breaking glass.
Motion Sensors
Sometimes you might not be able to close your windows or might leave your top open when your car is being used to carry a load. This might tempt a thief to break into your car due to the easy access to your car parts and accessories. In these cases, motion sensors are useful because they trigger an alarm when it senses motion inside your car when you are away.
Installing these security devices in today’s world is a necessity. Pioneer Auto Service is one of the best service stations in the Bay Area. Walk in today or call to make an appointment.
For all your vehicle maintenance needs, get in touch with Pioneer Auto Service in San Ramon. Pioneer Auto Service is a full-service auto and light truck repair facility located at: 1955 San Ramon Valley Blvd, San Ramon, CA 94583. You can also contact us by phone: (925) 837-1000.
Visit our website: www.pioneerautoservice.com
Also visit www.sanramonautoservice.com and www.smogchecksanramon.com for more information on our services.
Related websites
Click here to check out Car Audio, Car Video, Car security for buying branded products as well as professional installation and service.
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Greetings!
Welcome to Pioneer Auto Service’s November 2007 Newsletter
Start Your Fall Trip With An Automobile Checkup
Are you shocked by the soaring prices of gasoline?
Emerging economies are guzzling gasoline by gallons. The world is indeed getting fuel thirsty. What will happen if all the sources of fuel suddenly depletes? It will cripple global economy.
The solution is switching over to Hybrid cars.
What are Hybrid Cars?
Emerging economies are guzzling gasoline by gallons. The world is indeed getting fuel thirsty. What will happen if all the sources of fuel suddenly depletes? It will cripple global economy.
The solution is switching over to Hybrid cars.
What are Hybrid Cars?
A vehicle, which combines a traditional propulsion system with a Rechargeable Energy Storage System (RESS), is called a Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV). Hybrid electric vehicles enjoy fuel economy as compared to other conventional vehicles.
Gas powered versus Electric cars
Fuel stored in tanks supply the engine with gasoline in gas-powered cars.
In an electric car, a set of batteries turn the wheels of the vehicle by providing electricity to an electric motor.
A hybrid car successfully increases the mileage by reducing emissions of a gas-powered car and overcoming the disadvantages of an electric car.
A car should fulfill these minimum requirements:
Drive at least 300 miles
Be refueled quickly and easily
Keep up with the other traffic on the road
All these three will be achieved by a gasoline car but what about the pollution which it generates!?? An electric car is totally pollution free but can go only till 100 miles! Then it needs a recharge.
A hybrid car offers fuel efficiency as well as less pollution combining these two set-ups in one unit.
Hybrid car performance
hybrid car has a smaller engine than that of the conventional car and as a result, is more efficient. As with the usual car, the engine has to be big enough to produce the necessary power to accelerate faster. But in a smaller engine, the number of cylinders is reduced by using parts that are light and small which propel maximum usage.
Hybrid Mileage Tips
Get better mileage out of your hybrid car by following these tips:
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Drive slower. Overcome the aerodynamic drag by not driving too fast |
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Maintain constant speed: Every time you slow down and then pick up speed again your engine guzzles more fuel |
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Avoid sudden brakes: Sudden brakes cause the wheels to lock and stalling of the engine occurs. Slow down then apply brakes before gradually stopping |
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2008 Ford Escape Hybrid |
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The best car service center in San Ramon
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• Does your oil need to be changed?
• Is it time to service your brakes?
• Is it replacement time for the belts or filters?
• Due for a vehicle manufacturer scheduled |
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maintenance? |
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If you answered "yes" to any of these questions,
Pioneer Auto Service can help. |
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For all your vehicle maintenance needs, get in touch with Pioneer Auto Service in San Ramon. Pioneer Auto Service is a full-service auto and light truck repair facility located at: 1955 San Ramon Valley Blvd, San Ramon, CA 94583. You could also contact us on the phone: (925) 837-1000.
Visit our website: www.pioneerautoservice.com
Also visit www.sanramonautoservice.com and www.smogchecksanramon.com for more information on our services.
Related websites
Click here to check out Car Audio, Car Video, Car security for buying branded products as well as professional installation and service.
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Greetings!
Welcome to Pioneer Auto Service’s October 2007 Newsletter
Start Your Fall Trip With An Automobile Checkup
Whether it's a trip to the woods to see the trees change color, a tailgating adventure to cheer a football team to victory, or a late-season trek to the amusement park, fall is becoming an increasingly popular travel season.
According to AAA, fall travel accounts for 23 percent of all travel nationally, and a family of four taking a fall trek will spend an average of $269 per day on fuel, food, lodging and entertainment.
Those who hit the road with a poorly maintained automobile, however, may find that the leaves are not the only things turning red.
Fall checkups and vehicle repairs are especially important because most owners have subjected their vehicles to wear and tear through the peak summer driving months, and will soon be putting them through their paces in winter driving.
Many travelers spend hours researching destinations, mapping routes and making reservations at the finest inns and restaurants, yet ruin the entire experience with a broken belt or car tire issue that could have been quickly addressed beforehand. The No. 1 item travelers should pack this fall is a fully functioning vehicle.
Here is a list of the top five recommended items a vehicle often needs repaired before going on a road trip that owners sometimes don't think about or aren't aware need fixing:
- Check tire tread and pressure
- Replace windshield wiper blades
- Fill washer fluid
- Check coolant level
- Check oil level and change, if needed
Courtesy: http://news.carjunky.com/
Fall can be a hectic time of the year, with kids going back to school and weekend road trips. Pioneer Auto Service offers a number of technologies that let drivers enjoy the fall instead of worrying about vehicle maintenance.
Pioneer Auto Service in San Ramon can help you with this. It is a full-service auto and light truck repair facility, which means we can handle all your vehicle repair needs. Mechanical repairs, wheel alignments, tires & exhaust, 4WD, engine management systems, tether straps, service engines (+diesel) and auto transmissions, rebuild engines and differentials.
At Pioneer Auto Service, our shop facility is equipped with all the latest computerized equipment, providing us with access to the auto manufacturers' original and up-to-date specifications for your vehicle.
We are located at: 1955 San Ramon Valley Blvd, San Ramon, CA 94583. You could also contact us on the phone: (925) 837-1000. Visit our website: www.pioneerautoservice.com
Also visit www.sanramonautoservice.com and www.smogchecksanramon.com for more information on our services.
Car Ergonomics For Comfortable Road Trips
Driving long distances can bring about fatigue and discomfort if you’re not careful.
“Car Ergonomics” simply defines keeping the fatigue and discomfort levels low by avoiding stress to the body while driving.
Some experts say 15 minutes is considered a long travel time in a car especially when you are not sitting properly and comfortably.
Positioning is the most important aspect of driving without fatigue and discomfort. Let’s start with the seat. Make sure the height of the back rest reaches your shoulders. It is best to sit back into the seat to get better back support. Assume a fairly upright position.
Your knees should not be higher than your hips. The low-riding driver with a reclined seat could get side aches and lumbar pain over time.
Keep both hands on the steering wheel and avoid hanging one arm partially out the window while driving. This will prevent shoulder and or arm aches.
The left foot should be positioned on the dead-pedal and the right foot should be able to reach the break and accelerator without stretching the legs.
Finally, take regular breaks when traveling long distances so that you can stretch your legs.
For all your vehicle maintenance needs, get in touch with Pioneer Auto Service in San Ramon. Pioneer Auto Service is a full-service auto and light truck repair facility located at: 1955 San Ramon Valley Blvd, San Ramon, CA 94583. You could also contact us on the phone: (925) 837-1000. Visit our website: www.pioneerautoservice.com
Also visit www.sanramonautoservice.com and www.smogchecksanramon.com for more information on our services.
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Greetings!
Welcome to Pioneer Auto Service’s September 2007 Newsletter
Fall Car Care Tips from ASE
The vacations are over, the kids are back in school and cooler evenings have begun. The nonprofit National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) recommends that you take advantage of the lull to prepare your vehicle for the winter ahead. Breakdowns, can be dangerous in cold weather. The following tips from ASE should give motorists a road map to fall car care.
First things first - Read your owner’s manual and follow the manufacturer’s recommended service schedules. There are usually two schedules listed: normal and severe.
Engine performance - Have engine drivability problems (hard starts, rough idling, stalling, diminished power, etc.) corrected at a good repair shop. Cold weather will make existing problems worse. Replace dirty filters - air, fuel, PCV, etc.
Fuel - Put a bottle of fuel de-icer in your tank once a month to help keep moisture from freezing in the fuel line. Note too, that a gas tank that’s kept filled helps prevent moisture from forming in the first place.
Oil - Change your oil and oil filter as specified in your manual - more often (every 3,000 miles or so) if your driving is mostly stop-and-go or consists of frequent short trips.
Cooling system - The cooling system should be flushed and refilled as recommended. The level, condition, and concentration of the coolant should be checked periodically. The tightness and condition of drive belts, clamps and hoses should be checked by a certified auto technician.
Heater/defroster - The heater and defroster must be in good working condition for passenger comfort and driver visibility.
Windshield wipers - Replace old blades. If your climate is harsh, purchase rubber-clad (winter) blades to fight ice build-up. Stock up on windshield washer solvent - you’ll be surprised how much you use. Carry an ice-scraper.
Battery - The only accurate way to detect a weak battery is with professional equipment.
Lights - Inspect all lights and bulbs; replace burned out bulbs; periodically clean road grime from all lenses with a moistened cloth or towel. To prevent scratching, never use a dry rag.
Exhaust system - Your vehicle should be placed on a lift and the exhaust system examined for leaks. The trunk and floorboards should be inspected for small holes. Exhaust fumes can be deadly.
Tires - Worn tires will be of little use in winter weather. Examine tires for remaining tread life, uneven wearing, and cupping; check the sidewalls for cuts and nicks. Check tire pressure once a month. Let the tires “cool down” before checking the pressure. Rotate as recommended. Don’t forget your spare, and be sure the jack is in good condition.
Emergencies - Carry gloves, boots, blankets, flares, a small shovel, sand or kitty litter, tire chains, a flashlight, and a cell phone. Put a few “high-energy” snacks in your glove box.
Pioneer Auto Service is a full-service auto and light truck repair facility, which means we can handle all your vehicle repair needs. Mechanical repairs, wheel alignments, tires & exhaust, 4WD, engine management systems, tether straps, service engines (+diesel) and auto transmissions, rebuild engines and differentials.
At Pioneer Auto Service, our shop facility is equipped with all the latest computerized equipment, providing us with access to the auto manufacturers’ original and up-to-date specifications for your vehicle.
We are located at: 1955 San Ramon Valley Blvd, San Ramon, CA 94583. You could also contact us on the phone: (925) 837-1000. Visit our website: www.pioneerautoservice.com
Also visit www.sanramonautoservice.com and www.smogchecksanramon.com for more information on our services.
FAQ
Q. How can you tell if water has damaged your car?
A. With heavy rain pounding many parts of the country and hurricane season in full swing, there's a good chance that you'll drive through high water that could damage your vehicle. The Car Care Council recommends that motorists follow these guidelines to check for damage due to water intrusion or contamination:
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Check interior carpets, upholstery and door and trim panels for dampness. If they are wet, then the vehicle will need professional attention. If you simply let the carpet dry, it will quickly grow mildew and give off nasty odors. Seat brackets, motors and modules should also be checked for rust and proper operation. |
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Pull the engine oil and transmission fluid dipsticks and differential plug. If the fluid appears milky, diluted, is no longer its original color or is beige in color, then it is likely the pans contain water. The vehicle should be towed to your ASE-certified technician or repair shop. Driving the vehicle with water present may damage the internal parts and require extensive overhaul or repairs. The council reminds motorists that some new synthetic differential fluids may appear to be milky but are not water contaminated. When in doubt, a professional automotive technician should make the evaluation. |
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Check the air filter for water. If it is wet, replace the air filter and change the oil. |
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Check the undercarriage, bumpers, radiator area and frame for mud, grass, dirt, debris and rust. If any of these are present, the vehicle should be washed and cleaned as soon as possible. |
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Have the brake system checked by a professional automotive technician. |
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Check the exterior lights for moisture and water. Replace headlights and bulbs that contain water |
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Listen for abnormal noises while the engine is running. Make a note of where the noise is coming from and take the vehicle to a professional automotive technician as soon as possible. Pay particular attention to the alternator, serpentine belt, starter, power steering unit, air conditioner and wheel bearings. |
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Inspect the suspension joints and lubricate as necessary. Many newer vehicles are lubricated at the factory for life; however, these joints should be checked for rust. |
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By being car care aware and following these simple guidelines, you can help minimize the potential for damage to your vehicle.
For all your vehicle maintenance needs, get in touch with Pioneer Auto Service in San Ramon. Pioneer Auto Service is a full-service auto and light truck repair facility located at: 1955 San Ramon Valley Blvd, San Ramon, CA 94583. You could also contact us on the phone: (925) 837-1000. Visit our website: www.pioneerautoservice.com
Also visit www.sanramonautoservice.com and www.smogchecksanramon.com for more information on our services. |
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Greetings!
Welcome to Pioneer Auto Service’s August 2007 Newsletter
Summertime means lots of things to lots of people - one thing is a surge in the number of trailers going down the road. Whether you're towing to the lake or dragging a load of manure home to the garden, you'll need to get things straight before you do.
Towing is harder on a vehicle than normal driving. Your transmission works harder, and it takes more braking power to stop the increased load and the momentum created by having that load behind the car pushing you.
If you decide to set your car up to tow, be sure you have your package correctly wired for a trailer. It's very important to have tail lights, brake lights and turn signals on your trailer. If you haven't done a lot of automotive wiring, now's a good time to brush up on some wiring basics. Safety first!
Pioneer Auto Service is a full-service auto and light truck repair facility, which means we can handle all your vehicle repair needs. Mechanical repairs, wheel alignments, tires & exhaust, 4WD, engine management systems, tether straps, service engines (+diesel) and auto transmissions, rebuild engines and differentials.
At Pioneer Auto Service, our shop facility is equipped with all the latest computerized equipment, providing us with access to the auto manufacturers’ original and up-to-date specifications for your vehicle.
We are located at: 1955 San Ramon Valley Blvd, San Ramon, CA 94583. You could also contact us on the phone: (925) 837-1000. Visit our website: www.pioneerautoservice.com
Also visit www.sanramonautoservice.com and www.smogchecksanramon.com for more information on our services.
Keeping Your Tires Filled Saves Gas and Money
Did you know that how much air you have in your tires can have a direct affect on your gas mileage? It's true. Here's why:
Since your tire is like a balloon, the more air you have on the inside, the rounder and more firm your tire becomes. If you had six square inches touching the road at 35 psi, the flatter 30 psi tire will have eight square inches touching at once, making it harder for your engine to get things inches touching at once, making it harder for your engine to get things rolling from a dead stop.
Unfortunately you can't dangle a piece of salami in front of your car to make it go, so you're left using the engine, which uses more gas the harder it pulls. Filling your tires to the correct pressure will make it easier on the engine, and that means you'll be using less gas. It can make a difference of three or four miles per gallon. That's at least 36 more miles to the average tank of gas. At one tank of gas per week, you could be adding 1,872 free miles in a year! That's savings, and that's Automotive Empowerment for you!
Courtesy: http://www.about.com
So keep your tires filled with the correct air pressure, do contact Pioneer Auto Service for your needs of general automobile repair and maintenance.
Pioneer Auto Service Station is a fully computerized facility located in San Ramon. We are located at: 1955 San Ramon Valley Blvd, San Ramon, CA 94583. Also contact us on the phone: (925) 837-1000. or visit our website: www.pioneerautoservice.com
FAQ
Q: When I brake, the car starts shaking, the steering wheel most of all. The harder I brake the more it shakes. What could be the problem?
A: It most certainly is a brake problem -- warped front brake discs. As you use your brakes, heat builds up in all of the brake parts. When it gets hot enough, the brake disc (or rotor) will warp slightly. Unfortunately this slight warp is enough to make your car feel like a Cuisinart when you press the brake pedal. There are usually no other symptoms present, no noises other than the hideous vibration you also feel in the steering wheel.
Replacing your brake discs is the solution. Replace both of the brake discs and you'll be stopping smooth once again. While you have everything taken apart, it's a good time to replace your brake pads, too.
Brake discs warp over time for no reason other than wear, so it might be a driving habit issue. Any unnecessary depressing of the pedal while the car is moving, done on a repeated basis, could warp the discs.
For all your vehicle maintenance needs, get in touch with Pioneer Auto Service in San Ramon. Pioneer Auto Service is a full-service auto and light truck repair facility located at: 1955 San Ramon Valley Blvd, San Ramon, CA 94583. You could also contact us on the phone: (925) 837-1000. Visit our website: www.pioneerautoservice.com
Also visit www.sanramonautoservice.com and www.smogchecksanramon.com for more information on our services. |
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Greetings!
Welcome to Pioneer Auto Service’s July 2007 Newsletter
Save Money and Stay Safe
Planning for a vacation by car this summer? Getting the right preventative maintenance before you leave can help prevent roadside delays, and even increase your gas mileage!
Recommended systems' checking: |
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Oil and Filter. Fresh filters help provide better fuel economy, smoother running and optimum power. Oil is your engine's lifeblood. It is extremely important that the engine oil and filter be changed regularly, and especially before a long trip. Change the oil and oil filter according to the maintenance schedule in the Warranty and Maintenance Booklet.
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Tires. To extend tire life, keep wear uniform, and help ensure that you don't get stranded on the roadside, have your car tires rotated if they haven't been within the last 7,500 miles. Any unevenly worn or damaged tires should be replaced. Also, check and adjust your tire pressure according to the tire placard on the inside driver's door frame for the best fuel economy, ride comfort and handling. |
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Cooling system. A properly functioning cooling system is critical to engine operation. It is recommended that the cooling system and hose connections be checked frequently for leaks, damage or looseness. |
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Air conditioning system. A malfunctioning air conditioning system can make a long ride unbearable. Keep your cool! Have your system checked for refrigerant leaks, hose conditions and efficient operation before you depart. |
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Also be sure to check all lights, mirrors, safety belts, dashboard instruments, windshield wipers and all fluid levels.
Proper preventative maintenance can help ensure that your vehicle provides safe and trouble-free motoring. Have a safe trip!
Pioneer Auto Service is a full-service auto and light truck repair facility, which means we can handle your entire vehicle repair needs. Mechanical repairs, wheel alignments, tires & exhaust, 4WD, engine management systems, tether straps, service engines (+diesel) and auto transmissions, rebuild engines and differentials.
At Pioneer Auto Service, our shop facility is equipped with all the latest computerized equipment, providing us with access to the auto manufacturers’ original and up-to-date specifications for your vehicle.
We are located at: 1955 San Ramon Valley Blvd, San Ramon, CA 94583. You could also contact us on the phone: (925) 837-1000. Visit our website: www.pioneerautoservice.com
Also visit www.sanramonautoservice.com and www.smogchecksanramon.com for more information on our services.
FAQ
Q: Why would my 'check engine' light come ON and what should I do when it does?
A: When you start your vehicle, the check engine light comes on momentarily to test the engine/emission control system and bulb. The system is self-diagnostic and the light is a way to communicate trouble. The system is designed to function when trouble occurs and the light comes on - and stays on. Take your vehicle to an authorized dealer right away.
The light also can come on if you have installed electrically powered accessories (such as a radar detector or keyless entry system) that aren't compatible with your vehicle's systems.
For all your vehicle maintenance needs, get in touch with Pioneer Auto Service in San Ramon. Pioneer Auto Service is a full-service auto and light truck repair facility located at: 1955 San Ramon Valley Blvd, San Ramon, CA 94583. You could also contact us on the phone: (925) 837-1000. Visit our website: www.pioneerautoservice.com
Also visit www.sanramonautoservice.com and www.smogchecksanramon.com for more information on our services. |
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Greetings!
Welcome to Pioneer Auto Service's June 2007 Newsletter
Summer is here the season of activity, vacations and travel, warmth and joy.
Every summer millions of Americans take to the highways and Interstates in search of fun, sun, and adventure. They want to take a much needed vacation from their everyday concerns and problems.
Car trouble, usually due to neglected preventive maintenance, brings an abrupt end to vacation plans. No one wants to spend a vacation stranded along side of the highway, but breakdowns happen to millions of people each year. The situation usually means more than just a repair bill, says the Car Care Council. It can involve towing charges, lodging and possibly a rental car. Add to that the cost of extra phone calls, meals and general inconvenience, and the ordeal becomes expensive.
It's easy to think of today's vehicles as maintenance free, but they're not. Something as simple as a loose belt or low fluid level could strand you with little or no warning.This scenario usually can be avoided with a pre-vacation inspection performed by a qualified automotive technician.
So, this summer before you head to the beach, mountains, or your favorite family getaway take a few extra minutes to make sure your vehicle is running in top shape.
Pioneer Auto Service is a full-service auto and light truck repair facility, which means we can handle all your vehicle repair needs. Mechanical repairs, wheel alignments, tires & exhaust, 4WD, engine management systems, tether straps, service engines (+diesel) and auto transmissions, rebuild engines and differentials.
At Pioneer Auto Service, our shop facility is equipped with all the latest computerized equipment, providing us with access to the auto manufacturers’ original and up-to-date specifications for your vehicle.
We are located at: 1955 San Ramon Valley Blvd, San Ramon, CA 94583. You could also contact us on the phone: (925) 837-1000. Visit our website: www.pioneerautoservice.com
Also visit www.sanramonautoservice.com and www.smogchecksanramon.com for more information on our services.
Before leaving on a road trip, be sure of the following: |
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Take your vehicle to your dealer and have them check your belts, hoses, brakes, lights, windshield washer fluid, wiper blades, engine oil and coolant |
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Make sure your trunk has a jack, lug wrench and other tools youll need to change a tire |
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Check tire pressure of all tires, including the spare |
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Make sure you have a working flashlight with extra batteries, emergency reflectors, sunglasses and a first aid kit |
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Take your driver's license, vehicle registration and auto and medical insurance cards |
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Carry a spare set of vehicle keys |
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Plan your route and leave a copy of your itinerary with a relative or neighbor |
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Take any special medications and prescription information |
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Take your doctor's phone number |
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Take your eyeglass prescription |
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Bring a cellular phone or sign that tells passersby to 'Call Police' in case of trouble |
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Have any repairs or vehicle maintenance performed before the trip - See your vehicle's Owner's Manual for vehicle maintenance schedules |
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Courtesy: http://www.goodwrench.com/
For your needs of fuel injector service and general automobile repair and maintenance, do contact Pioneer Auto Service.
Pioneer Auto Service Station is a fully computerized facility located in San Ramon. We are located at: 1955 San Ramon Valley Blvd, San Ramon, CA 94583. Also contact us on the phone: (925) 837-1000. or visit our website: www.pioneerautoservice.com
FAQ
Q: Why is a vehicle maintenance schedule important?
A: If you're not planning on keeping your vehicle too long, showing potential buyers a consistent maintenance record can be a key factor in maintaining resale value, clinching the sale and getting the price you want.
Remember, preventive maintenance can be scheduled at your convenience and at less cost than a major repair. Preventive maintenance of your vehicle can help you avoid roadside breakdowns, reduce costly repairs, and keep your vehicle safe, reliable and in proper operating condition.
Vehicle maintenance is an important factor for proper vehicle operation. The vehicle's driver should ensure that fluid levels (engine oil, coolant, etc.) are checked frequently (i.e., each time you add fuel) in accordance with the instructions in the owner's manual. Vehicle Maintenance Management procedures are variable, depending on the year, make, and model.
For all your vehicle maintenance needs, get in touch with Pioneer Auto Service in San Ramon. Pioneer Auto Service is a full-service auto and light truck repair facility located at: 1955 San Ramon Valley Blvd, San Ramon, CA 94583. You could also contact us on the phone: (925) 837-1000. Visit our website: www.pioneerautoservice.com
Also visit www.sanramonautoservice.com and www.smogchecksanramon.com for more information on our services. |
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Greetings!
Welcome to Pioneer Auto Service's May 2007 Newsletter
Happy Mother's Day!
Mother's day is May 13th. It is time to honor Mom for all the loving things she does every single day. Have you thought about how you will celebrate Mom?
On Mother's Day you may want to do something special for your Mom and make her feel appreciated. With a little advance planning you can come up with the perfect gift for your Mom. All you need is a little 'out of the box' thinking and some good old-fashioned creativity. The most endearing Mother's Day gifts are those with a personal and sentimental touch.
How about an Oil Change and Tune Up for her car? If possible, surprise her with a complete vehicle maintenance gift certificate. Maybe you could include wash and wax for an added bonus. And the perfect place to get all this done could be Pioneer Auto Service in San Ramon.
No matter what gift you give, you can bank on the fact that your Mom will love it.
Pioneer Auto Service is a full-service auto and light truck repair facility, which means we can handle all your vehicle repair needs. Mechanical repairs, wheel alignments, tires & exhaust, 4WD, engine management systems, tether straps, service engines (+diesel) and auto transmissions, rebuild engines and differentials.
At Pioneer Auto Service, our shop facility is equipped with all the latest computerized equipment, providing us with access to the auto manufacturers' original and up-to-date specifications for your vehicle.
We are located at: 1955 San Ramon Valley Blvd, San Ramon, CA 94583. You could also contact us on the phone: (925) 837-1000. Visit our website: www.pioneerautoservice.com
Also visit www.sanramonautoservice.com and www.smogchecksanramon.com for more information on our services.
Fuel Injector Service
Fuel injectors can cost a hundred dollars or more a piece, and you may have one for each cylinder. Cleaning them before they are plugged can remove harmful deposits and keep them spraying in top form. After they plug, replacement is sometimes the only option. It is very important to keep the fuel injector clean.
The most common form of injector fouling comes from unused gasoline evaporating inside the injector after you turn the car off.
Fouled injectors may give no overt symptoms, even while they are cutting your mileage and pumping extra pollution into the air. When they get bad enough, they can cause hard starting, hesitation, and loss of power. On a scope, they will show the cylinders out of balance on a power balance test. In order to pass a smog inspection, they have to be inspected and properly cleaned.
The first two things to try for cleaning your injectors are using premium fuel, which has more detergents, and putting a fuel additive in your gas tank. These will be only partly successful, however. For the best results, a technician will disconnect the engine from its gas supply and feed pressurized solvent directly into the fuel rail in order to flush out the injectors.
Failing that, injectors can be removed from the car, their fuel spray patterns tested, and they can be more extensively cleaned. Sometimes, nothing works and the injectors must be replaced.
For your needs of fuel injector service and general automobile repair and maintenance, do contact Pioneer Auto Service.
Pioneer Auto Service Station is a fully computerized facility located in San Ramon. We are located at: 1955 San Ramon Valley Blvd, San Ramon, CA 94583. Also contact us on the phone: (925) 837-1000. or visit our website: www.pioneerautoservice.com
How to Improve Your Odds of Passing an Emission Test
Q: My car failed an Emission Test. Now what?
A: First try to figure out why it failed the test, get the problem fixed and then try to pass the test again. The worst case scenario is spending a lot of money on repairs only to find that they didn't solve your emissions problem. In states or municipalities where periodic emissions testing is required, you cannot get your vehicle registration or emissions compliance sticker unless you either pass the test or meet the 'waiver' requirements.
The best way to improve the odds of passing an emission test is to maintain your vehicle.
A well-maintained engine is usually a clean engine as far as emissions are concerned.
Changing the spark plugs, air filter, fuel filter, PCV valve and oil regularly (or just before an emissions test), checking ignition timing and adjusting the carburetor (if you have an older vehicle) can reduce emissions and greatly improve your chance of passing.
Also, filling up your fuel tank with gasoline that contains 10% ethanol alcohol (many premium grade fuels use alcohol as an octane booster) may help lower your emissions even more.
For all your vehicle maintenance needs, get in touch with Pioneer Auto Service in San Ramon. Pioneer Auto Service is a full-service auto and light truck repair facility located at: 1955 San Ramon Valley Blvd, San Ramon, CA 94583. You could also contact us on the phone: (925) 837-1000. Visit our website: www.pioneerautoservice.com
Also visit www.sanramonautoservice.com and www.smogchecksanramon.com for more information on our services. |
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Welcome to Pioneer Auto Service April 2007 Newsletter
Everybody wants to work with a mechanic they can trust. Finding one can be difficult but here are some tips to find a reputable and highly skilled auto care technician. Doing a little homework will not only save you money, but you will find a mechanic you can trust and one that will give you peace of mind. |
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Shop around for an auto care facility before you need repairs. Having to find a shop when your car is on the back of a flatbed is not a good time to find a quality shop. Basic automobile maintenance is the best way to keep your car running smoothly and avoid costly repairs. |
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Ask the shop for references and follow up with calls to them. A few minutes on the phone goes a long way to ensuring you get the quality car repairs you need. |
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Ask family, friends, and co-workers to recommend a reputable shop. Personal recommendations account for 60% of all car-buying decisions. This same method should be used to find a quality care center. |
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Call your local Better Business Bureau and check the shop’s reliability and performance before you have repairs done. |
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There is an old saying; 'Quality is not expensive, it’s priceless.' This is true when looking for an auto care shop. Don’t shop for price alone. It’s important to remember that you’re not just paying for the cost of the part and the time it takes to install it, but you're also paying for the professionalism and technical expertise of the technician. |
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Look for signs that the shop has the equipment needed to properly diagnose your car’s problems. Nearly all cars built since the early 80’s have computer-controlled systems designed to increase engine efficiency, reduce emissions and aid in engine troubleshooting. If a shop doesn’t have the proper equipment to diagnose your car, you may be taking a risk by having it repaired there. |
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Look for a repair facility that employs certified technicians. |
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Ask if the repsair facility uses brand name parts when repairing your vehicle. Brand name parts are typically engineered to original manufacturer’s quality or better and often carry warranties. |
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Choose an auto care center that provides a customer satisfaction policy. Such policies allow you peace of mind, not to mention saving you money. |
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Finding a good mechanic can be a daunting task, but once you find him you’ll find that in addition to quality work, he also brings you many miles of trouble free driving and a lot of peace of mind. Once you’ve selected your auto care center, a good rule of thumb is to give your technician time to do a good job for you.
Pioneer Auto Service is a full-service auto and light truck repair facility, which means we can handle all your vehicle repair needs. Mechanical repairs, wheel alignments, tires & exhaust, 4WD, engine management systems, tether straps, service engines (+diesel) and auto transmissions, rebuild engines and differentials.
At Pioneer Auto Service, our shop facility is equipped with all the latest computerized equipment, providing us with access to the auto manufacturers’ original and up-to-date specifications for your vehicle.
We are located at: 1955 San Ramon Valley Blvd, San Ramon, CA 94583. You could also contact us on the phone: (925) 837-1000. Visit our website: http://www.pioneerautoservice.com
Also visit www.sanramonautoservice.com and www.smogchecksanramon.com for more information on our services.
Automobile service and oil-change
During any regular car service the mechanic should ensure that the engine oil is changed. But there are other oils in your car which unless drained periodically and replaced, could cause parts of your car to wear more quickly than they should.
Pioneer Auto Service station is a fully computerized facility located in San Ramon.
What are these other oils?
The automatic transmission, manual gearbox, differential and power steering systems are all lubricated by oil or fluids of various types. Some of these systems don’t have the luxury of an oil filter, like the engine uses.
Why change these oils?
Simply put, oil reduces friction between mechanical parts in a car and thus reduces wear. Unless these oils are drained periodically and replaced with clean oil, parts of your car can wear more quickly than they should. As oil gets older it collects abrasive impurities. Additives used in the oil to help it suit a certain application can diminish over time and with use. Heat produced, particularly in automatic transmissions, can also affect the oil’s lubricating properties.
How often should the oil be changed?
This will vary depending on the particular oil, the job it does and the type of driving you do. You can refer to your vehicle owner’s manual for recommended intervals or your Auto Repair mechanic will be happy to advise you.
For your needs of clutch repair and general automobile repair and maintenance, do contact Pioneer Auto Service. We are located at: 1955 San Ramon Valley Blvd, San Ramon, CA 94583. You could also contact us on the phone: (925) 837-1000. Visit our website: http://www.pioneerautoservice.com
Automobile Economy Tips
Here are some tips to keep your car’s on-road costs down: |
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Cold Starts ... Pumping the accelerator when the engine is cold wastes fuel - it’s less wasteful to drive off immediately. Don't attempt higher speeds until the engine’s warm. In automatic cars you should move off as soon as the engine’s running smoothly. |
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Don’t overfill the tank ... Heat increases the pressure, so fuel rises and overflows. So when it’s hot, don’t over fill a fuel tank. |
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Keep your air conditioner longer ... Run the car’s air-conditioning for a good ten minutes each week, even in winter. This prevents the refrigerant from leaking out. |
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Near empty costs ... By waiting till your fuel is all gone you could be shortening the life of your fuel filter. It can get clogged with the detritus that builds up in all petrol tanks. Try to keep your tank at least a quarter full. |
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Save Petrol ... You use 25% less fuel at a lower speed. |
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The more weight, the more it costs ... For every half ton that a car weighs, it uses 700 litres of petrol a year. Keep your car light-weight and lean and save. |
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Pioneer Auto Service is a full-service auto and light truck repair facility located at: 1955 San Ramon Valley Blvd, San Ramon, CA 94583. You could also contact us on the phone: (925) 837-1000. Visit our website: http://www.pioneerautoservice.com
Also visit www.sanramonautoservice.com and www.smogchecksanramon.com for more information on our services. |
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Welcome to Pioneer Auto Service March 2007 Newsletter
Why is auto maintenance important?
Your vehicle has hundreds of moving parts all working together. Through normal driving over time, some of these parts simply wear out or no longer perform the way they should. To make sure that your vehicle is running at its best, your vehicle manufacturer recommends that certain parts and systems are checked at certain intervals. By following their recommendations, more costly repairs down the road may be avoided.
What is the difference between Maintenance and Repairs?
Repairs are services that are required or necessary when something on your vehicle is not working properly. Also, when your vehicle has worn to the point where a replacement is required to maintain the performance of your vehicle.
Maintenance is the routinely scheduled services, inspections and part replacements that your vehicle manufacturer recommends based on the age or mileage of your vehicle.
The schedule for performing these maintenance services varies from vehicle to vehicle. You will find the schedule for your vehicle in your owner’s manual. Following this schedule is the best way to make sure your vehicle is performing as it should.
Pioneer Auto Service is a full-service auto and light truck repair facility, which means we can handle all your vehicle repair needs. Mechanical repairs, wheel alignments, tires & exhaust, 4WD, engine management systems, tether straps, service engines (+diesel) and auto transmissions, rebuild engines and differentials.
At Pioneer Auto Service, our shop facility is equipped with all the latest computerized equipment, providing us with access to the auto manufacturers’ original and up-to-date specifications for your vehicle.
We are located at: 1955 San Ramon Valley Blvd, San Ramon, CA 94583. You could also contact us on the phone: (925) 837-1000. Visit our website: http://www.pioneerautoservice.com
Also visit www.sanramonautoservice.com and www.smogchecksanramon.com for more information on our services.
Clutch problems and Repair
The first thing to understand about clutches is that they need to be spotlessly clean. Even the smallest bit of dirt or grit will send all your hard work to an early grave. Grease even from your fingers will make the clutch squeal or make the car jerk on take off and shifts. None of this is to say that the average guy can’t replace his clutch only that care needs to be taken to keep this area exceptionally clean.Some of the likely causes for clutch problems are Slippage, Clutch Release Problems and Clutch Chatter.
There are several internal failures that can cause a clutch to slip, but all result in the same requirement. Replace the clutch. Be sure the servicing technician checks closely for oil contamination. Clutch failure is often caused by engine or transmission oil contaminating the clutch friction material. If there is oil contamination, be sure you fix the oil leak before completing the clutch replacement. Once clutch linings are contaminated, there is no way to clean them. Replacing the clutch is the only way to restore proper clutch operation.
Pioneer Auto Service station is a fully computerized facility located in San Ramon.
For your needs of clutch repair and general automobile repair and maintenance, do contact Pioneer Auto Service. We are located at: 1955 San Ramon Valley Blvd, San Ramon, CA 94583. You could also contact us on the phone: (925) 837-1000. Visit our website: http://www.pioneerautoservice.com
Clutch Repair FAQ:
Q: My clutch needs to be replaced. Are there any other things that should be replaced at the same time?
A: There are certainly numerous parts that should be examined and considered during a clutch replacement. In fact, it is always a good idea to perform an overall vehicle inspection whenever any work is being done. But in direct relation to a clutch failure/replacement, be sure to consider the following items: |
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Motor/transmission mounts |
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Rear engine crankshaft (rear main) seal |
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Transmission gear oil |
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Transmission seals |
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Universal joints/CV joints |
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Shifter linkages/bushings |
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Clutch hydraulic components (master & slave cylinders) |
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Flywheel/ring gear |
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Pioneer Auto Service is a full-service auto and light truck repair facility located at: 1955 San Ramon Valley Blvd, San Ramon, CA 94583. You could also contact us on the phone: (925) 837-1000. Visit our website: http://www.pioneerautoservice.com
Also visit www.sanramonautoservice.com and www.smogchecksanramon.com for more information on our services. |
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Welcome to Pioneer Auto Service February 2007 Newsletter
Wish you all a Happy Valentine Month!
Pioneer Auto Service is a full-service auto and light truck repair facility, which means we can handle all your vehicle repair needs. Mechanical repairs, wheel alignments, tires & exhaust, 4WD, engine management systems, tether straps, service engines (diesel) and auto transmissions, rebuild engines and differentials.
At Pioneer Auto Service, our shop facility is equipped with all the latest computerized equipment, providing us with access to the auto manufacturers' original and up-to-date specifications for your vehicle.
One of the most important things to remember when it comes to auto safety: It's up to you to decide when something's wrong! Nobody knows your car better than you. If something seems funny, look into it. If it seems dangerous, don't take the chance of something terrible happening. Look into the problem or get a pro to diagnose the situation. It's just not worth an accident to just "see how it goes." This is especially true when you're talking about something vital to your driving safety like brakes or steering. Reading up is always a good idea when you're trying to figure out an automotive issue, but if things seem fishy, go with your gut. If you step on the brake pedal and nothing happens, it's you (or worse, a loved one) behind the wheel.
This may seem like common sense, but it's worth taking a second to make a mental note. And it's one more good reason to consider regular auto maintenance!
We are located at: 1955 San Ramon Valley Blvd, San Ramon, CA 94583. You could also contact us on the phone: (925) 837-1000. Visit our website: http://www.pioneerautoservice.com
Are you padding your brake pads?
As you pull up to the stoplight you hear a deafening screech. It's either the flock of pterodactyl that escaped from Jurassic Park or it's time to replace your brake pads. You should go ahead and take care of it before you start getting those dirty looks in the supermarket parking lot.
It's easy to replace your brake pads. If your brakes start to grind, it can damage those spinning shiny discs - your brake rotors. Rotors aren't cheap to replace. So install some new brake pads for safety's sake!
Pioneer Auto Service station is a fully computerized facility located in San Ramon.
For all your needs of automobile repair and maintenance, do contact Pioneer Auto Service. We are located at: 1955 San Ramon Valley Blvd, San Ramon, CA 94583. You could also contact us on the phone: (925) 837-1000. Visit our website: http://www.pioneerautoservice.com
Winter Driving Tips From the Experts
You are driving along a lonely stretch of back road, the sun goes down, the temperature drops and all of sudden boom! your car is skidding off the road and into a ditch. This time of year, as the temperature starts to drop, the accident rate starts to rise precipitously.
Here are some everyday winter driving tips from famed rally racing instructor, Tim ONeil, of the Team ONeil Rally School. ONeil teaches a 1-day Winter Safety School in Dalton, New Hampshire.
Tim has four tips to keep you safer this winter: |
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Always monitor the conditions of the road, their surroundings and adjust your speed accordingly. Remember, its not an accident; its someone who made a bad decision and drove too fast for the terrain they were on and for the grip of their tires. |
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Monitor the temperature. Adding a temperature gauge is one of the most important things you can add to your car. It will tell you when the road is either about to freeze or has frozen over. |
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Listen to your tires. On a wet road the tires make a sizzle sound. If they are quiet; thats black ice. You have three chances to know the black ice is coming: dropping temperature, windshield fogging and the lack of tire noise. Now youre on black ice. Drive safer. |
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Keep your foot on the gas. When the car starts to slide out of control, people tend to over steer and let off the gas. Lifting off the gas is bad. If you stay on the gas when you start to slide, it will pull you out of the slide. Also, people tend to get target fixation. It helps to look down the road and pick where you want to go. Dont look anywhere else. If you start to skid, look where you want to go, not what you think youll hit. If you look at that tree, youre going to hit it. |
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Courtesy: http://www.yahoo.com
Pioneer Auto Service is a full-service auto and light truck repair facility located at: 1955 San Ramon Valley Blvd, San Ramon, CA 94583. You could also contact us on the phone:
(925) 837-1000. Visit our website: http://www.pioneerautoservice.com |
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Welcome to Pioneer Auto Service January 2007 Newsletter
Wish you all a Happy, Healthy and Wonderful New Year!
Los Angeles Auto Show wraps up!
The Los Angeles Auto Show marks the start of auto show season in North America. Many used this opportunity to introduce new vehicles to the market, hoping to gain an advantage over the competition as we head into 2007. Visitors to the show were treated to a total of 21 world debuts and more than a dozen North American introductions over a 10-day period.
The 2006 LA Auto Show is the last show of the calendar year in North America, but the first of 4 major automotive shows that define the upcoming new model year. Bigger and better than in the past, it celebrated a 100 year history in grand style. With the amount of energy on display in LA, the next 100 years should prove to be even more exciting!
For more information on the LA Auto Show, read here: http://www.laautoshow.com/show/
Pioneer Auto Service is a full-service auto and light truck repair facility, which means we can handle all your vehicle repair needs. Mechanical repairs, wheel alignments, tires & exhaust, 4WD, engine management systems, tether straps, service engines (+diesel) and auto transmissions, rebuild engines and differentials.
At Pioneer Auto Service, our shop facility is equipped with all the latest computerized equipment, providing us with access to the auto manufacturers’ original and up-to-date specifications for your vehicle.
We are located at: 1955 San Ramon Valley Blvd, San Ramon, CA 94583. You could also contact us on the phone: (925) 837-1000. Visit our website: http://www.pioneerautoservice.com/
While buying a new set of tires, should you have it balanced?
Yes. Balancing helps to guarantee a smooth ride at highway speeds, and it helps to maximize tire life. An out-of-balance tire can be very annoying because it produces a shake that increases in intensity the faster you go. The up-and-down shaking of the wheel is hard on the suspension, not to mention your nerves, and also increases tread wear. An out-of-balance tire can develop a cupped wear pattern. So do yourself and your tires a favor and have them balanced.
Pioneer Auto Service station is a computerized wheel alignment and balancing facility located inSan Ramon.
For all your needs of automobile wheel alignment and balancing, do contact Pioneer Auto Service. We are located at: 1955 San Ramon Valley Blvd, San Ramon, CA 94583. You could also contact us on the phone: (925) 837-1000. Visit our website: http://www.pioneerautoservice.com/
Auto Repair Tips
Are there general safety tips I should follow when working on my own car?
First and foremost, do not attempt repairs that are beyond your ability. If you feel unsure about a repair, you should seek out a competent professional to do the work for you. Better to pay someone who knows what they’re doing than to attempt to fix it yourself and screw it up. Many systems on vehicles today are very complex. Repairs often require considerable skill and expertise, not to mention special tools and equipment. A simple mistake could ruin sensitive (and expensive!) electronic components.
Know your physical limits, too. Replacing certain components may require heavy lifting (changing or removing tires, pulling a cylinder head, etc.), crawling under the vehicle, laying or working in an awkward position, reaching, bending, twisting, pulling, tugging, straining, jerking and motions you may not be accustomed to making. If you have a bad back, joint problem or lack the physical strength to do something, then don’t. Hire someone to do it for you.
Also, do not attempt to undertake any maintenance or repair work on your vehicle if you’re tired, not feeling well, tipsy, on medication or otherwise impaired. Exhaustion, illness, alcoholic beverages and even some medications may affect your judgment and perception creating a potential for injury or error.
Courtesy: http://autos.yahoo.com/
Pioneer Auto Service is a full-service auto and light truck repair facility located at: 1955 San Ramon Valley Blvd, San Ramon, CA 94583. You could also contact them on the phone: (925) 837-1000. Visit their website: http://www.pioneerautoservice.com/ |
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