Auto Maintenance: Ways to Prepare Your Car for Holiday Travel

When packing your bags for the holidays, remember that your vehicle might not be 100% road-ready for long-distance trips. There are some auto maintenance tips you need to remember.

These are six things to auto maintenance tips to remember before you hit the road this holiday season.

1. Inspect Your Tire Pressure

Proper tire inflation is the main cause of premature tire replacements and blowouts. You don’t want to have to stop to change a flat or miss a party.

Before you take off, make sure that your tires are filled with the correct amount of air. The correct amount can be found in your owner’s manual. If you don’t have your manual, a licensed mechanic will fill your tires to the correct PSI.

2. Make an appointment for an oil change

Every 3,000 miles, you should have your oil changed. You should schedule an oil change before you travel if you suspect your oil is reaching boiling point.

Some people wait until the end of their trip before getting an oil change. This is a good idea, if your trip starts before the 3,000-mile mark. However, fresh oil can be helpful with:

• Long-distance driving requires engine lubrication
• Gas mileage is improved
• Reduce greenhouse gas emissions on the road

3. Rotate Your Tires

Make sure you schedule a tire rotation before you go on your trip.

Rotating the tires can prolong their life by avoiding uneven and premature wear. It also gives technicians an opportunity to inspect your wheels thoroughly before you go on a long trip.

4. Check Your Brakes

Your brakes are essential for keeping your ride safe and smooth. You’ll need them to be in tip-top condition so you can enjoy your trip.

Go for a drive around the block with your vehicle and make sure to stop every now and again. You should take your vehicle to an inspection if you hear unusual noises such as grinding or squeaking.

If your vehicle vibrates when you apply the brakes, a thorough auto inspection is necessary.

5. Take off all necessary fluids

Have an auto mechanic inspect all fluid levels in your vehicle. When maintained at the right levels, fluids such as oil and coolant can help to keep your vehicle in good condition and extend the life of your investment.

6. Repairs and replacements are possible

You should take care of your vehicle if it needs minor auto repairs, such as a cracked tail light or worn windshield wipers.

It’s not a good idea to slow down your big trip. You don’t want to slow down your family’s journey.

Call Miller Brothers Transmission Auto Repair and Body Shop now if you need expert help in auto maintenance or repairs.

Like our Facebook page for more great info about auto repairs.

Miller Brothers Transmission Auto Repair and Body Shop
7123 Tazewell Pike
Corryton, TN 37721
(865) 689-5072
https://www.millerbrosautorepair.com/

Serving Knoxville, TN and Knox County

Service areas include: All of Knox County, Corryton, Fountain City, Halls Crossroads, Powell and Knoxville

Auto Maintenance Tips To Prepare Your Vehicle For Winter

Winter holidays are full of joy and laughter, but the chilliest season is often accompanied by cold temperatures, ice, and snow. With a little planning and auto maintenance, your vehicle can be prepared for inclement weather.

Auto Maintenance Tips For Winter

Get a tune-up

The first thing you need to do is get an auto tuneup. To check the level of the wiper fluid, you should first remove the hood. Keep your windshield washer reservoir topped up during winter so your windshield can be kept clear even in the snowiest months. The windshield wiper fluids should be concentrated or you might require a deicer if you live in extremely cold areas.

Cold temperatures can affect oil viscosity so you might need to switch to a winter-grade oil. The temperature increases and your engine’s oil gets thinner. Therefore, in warmer climates, thicker oils with higher viscosity will keep your engine properly lubricated. In cold and windy conditions, heavier oils won’t work as well. To make sure you are choosing the correct type, consult the owner’s guide or speak to your auto mechanic.

You should also inspect any other parts under your vehicle that could fail in extreme circumstances while you are checking your fluids. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, (NHTSA), seasonal changes are a good opportunity to check that your cooling system is working properly, your battery is charged, and that your rubber hoses are in good condition.

Check your tires

Your air tire pressure drops as the temperature drops. Tires can lose pressure at a rate of around one pound for every 10 degrees Fahrenheit. Low tire pressure can cause dangerously poor handling. It’s therefore important to ensure that your tires are properly inflated.

Buy snow tires if you live in an area that experiences severe winter weather. These snow tires are specifically designed for snowy or icy surfaces.

Examine the exterior of your car

To ensure that your headlights work properly, check the exterior of your vehicle. Clean and replace any damaged bulbs. NHTSA also recommends that windshield wipers be in good working order. Windshield wipers are continually exposed to the elements. It is important to regularly replace worn or damaged wiper blades to maintain visibility, especially in the event of a snowstorm.

Make sure you have a winter emergency kit

You can also keep a year-round emergency kit in your car. Consider adding a winter emergency kit.

• A shovel
• Gloves
• Boots
• An ice scraper
• For traction on slippery roads, sand or cat litter is recommended.
• Keep your doors open to prevent them from freezing

Spray the rubber seal on your car’s door with regular cooking spray. Then, wipe any drips off your car using a dry paper towel. This will keep your car from freezing all year.

Although we cannot avoid winter’s driving hazards, there are some things you can do to prepare for the colder months.

Call Miller Brothers Transmission Auto Repair and Body Shop now and let our mechanics help prepare your car for winter.

Like our Facebook page for more great info about auto maintenance and repair services.

Miller Brothers Transmission Auto Repair and Body Shop
7123 Tazewell Pike
Corryton, TN 37721
(865) 689-5072
https://www.millerbrosautorepair.com/

Serving Knoxville, TN and Knox County

Service areas include: All of Knox County, Corryton, Fountain City, Halls Crossroads, Powell, and Knoxville

Winter Driving: Be Prepared

Winter driving can be difficult, especially when there are snowstorms or icy conditions. You can handle any weather Mother Nature throws at you by getting your car prepared for winter and following some simple tips to safely drive.

Get ready for Winter Driving

Here are some tips for winterizing your car, in addition to regular auto repair and maintenance.

• Check your battery. Battery power drops when the temperature drops.
• Check that the cooling system is working properly
• Install winter tires that are deeper and more flexible to your vehicle’s tread.
• All-season tires should be inspected and replaced if the tread is less than 2/3 of an inch
• The temperature can affect the pressure of your tires. If the temperature drops, the pressure of your tires will drop.
• Replace your wiper blades if necessary.
• Add wiper fluid that is rated for -30°C
• To avoid gas line freeze, keep your gas tank at minimum half-full
• Keep your car’s emergency kit fully stocked.

Make sure to clean your car’s side view mirrors and external camera lenses so that you can see what’s going on around you.

To allow assistive-driving functions like an automatic emergency brake to work. You may need to heat up your car in cold weather before you drive it. Carbon monoxide poisoning can be prevented by not allowing a vehicle to run in your garage. If you are unsure about the weather, you can wait it out. If you have to travel, you should share your plans and route with someone before departing

Before you start

• Make sure to clean your car’s side view mirrors and external camera lenses so that you can see what’s going on around you
• Make sure assistive-driving functions are working like automatic emergency brake to work, remove dirt, ice, and snow
• You may need to heat up your car in cold weather before you drive it
• Carbon monoxide poisoning can be prevented by not allowing a vehicle to run in your garage.
• If you are unsure about the weather, you can wait it out. If you have to travel, you should share your plans and route with someone before departing

How to Avoid a Crash

AAA has the following driving tips:

• In winter conditions, it is best to not use cruise control
• You can steer in the direction of a skid so that your wheels regain traction and you don’t need to overcorrect in order to keep in your lane
• Slowly accelerate and slow down
• Increase the distance between 8 and 10 seconds
• When you are going uphill, do not stop if it is possible
• If visibility is very limited, pull off to a safer place and don’t drive until the conditions improve. Unless it’s an emergency, do not pull off onto the shoulder. Other vehicles can’t see you because of the limited visibility.

Winter driving can be difficult, especially when there are snowstorms or icy conditions. You can handle any weather Mother Nature throws at you by getting your car prepared for winter and following some simple tips to safely drive.

If visibility is very limited because of a whiteout, pull off to a safer place and don’t drive until the conditions improve. If it is an emergency, do not pull off onto the shoulder. You can’t see other vehicles if you have limited visibility.

Know your car’s capabilities

Most new vehicles now have traction control. This function allows your vehicle to gain traction on snowy or icy surfaces. It is especially useful when you are trying to accelerate from a slowed or stopped position or climbing a steep hill.

Anti-lock brake system (ABS), which is standard on all new vehicles, helps you steer in emergency situations by restoring traction. When ABS is engaged, ABS might vibrate or pulse. This is normal. Continue pressing and holding the brake pedal down.

You are your car’s greatest safety feature. You must take safety precautions to make sure you reach your destination safely. Do not abandon your vehicle if you are stranded in unfamiliar territory. Use flares to illuminate the area in front and behind your car. Also, ensure that the exhaust pipe does not become blocked by objects, snow, or mud.

Call Miller Brothers Transmission Auto Repair and Body Shop now if you need help repairing or maintaining your car.

Like our Facebook page for more great info about auto repair services.

Miller Brothers Transmission Auto Repair and Body Shop
7123 Tazewell Pike
Corryton, TN 37721
(865) 689-5072
https://www.millerbrosautorepair.com/

Serving Knoxville, TN and Knox County

Service areas include: All of Knox County, Corryton, Fountain City, Halls Crossroads, Powell and Knoxville

Step-by-Step Guide to Car Accident Repair Part 2

How does the claims process work and what is covered by your insurance, especially for car accident repair? Each accident is unique, and each policy is different. However, you need to know which factors fall within your coverage.

Fault vs. None-Fault States

The two most common systems used by the U.S. for car accident claims are:

Fault States: Any party that was at fault in an accident can be compensated. This includes your insurer or the insurance company of the other driver. This system is used by 38 states, including Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont.

No-Fault: Compensation can only be sought through your own insurance regardless of whose fault it was. Massachusetts, New York, and twelve other states have no-fault laws. Each state has its own variations.

Collision Coverage

Collision coverage “helps pay for your car to be repaired if it is damaged in a collision or object such as a fence.” Collision coverage is generally available to drivers who are involved in an accident.

Collision insurance covers your vehicle from:

• Single-car rollovers
• Potholes
• Accidents that involve objects like fences or trees
• Accidents involving other vehicles

Comprehensive Coverage

Comprehensive car insurance covers damage to your vehicle due to covered events like theft, vandalism, hail, and other non-collision-related events.

Comprehensive insurance covers damage to your vehicle starting at:

• Theft
• Natural disasters
• Fire
• Animals
• Falling objects

If you lease or finance a vehicle, comprehensive and collision insurance coverage is usually required. These policies do not cover damage to other people’s vehicles or medical bills (yours and anyone else’s). Liability insurance covers the damages to property and medical injuries of “other drivers” if they are at fault in an accident.

Car Accident Repair Tips

Do you have Geico Insurance? Did you know that many auto repair shops in the Knoxville area do not accept Geico Insurance? Miller Brothers Auto Repair is proud to partner with your local Geico insurance company to provide top-quality collision repair.

1. You have the option to choose your auto repair shop.

Contrary to what your insurer may tell you, you don’t have to take your car to the auto shop they recommend. While your insurance company may have a list that recommends the best auto shops, it is ultimately up to you to choose.

2. Take a look at a few repair estimates.

You can save time and money by getting estimates from multiple repair shops to find the best price. Don’t be tempted by the lowest price. Sometimes, the cheapest option won’t produce the best quality auto repairs.

3. Make sure that the replacement parts are brand new if your insurance covers them.

You will find out whether OEM or aftermarket parts are allowed to be used for your vehicle’s repair under your insurance policy. Aftermarket parts are not always the best option because they are manufactured by a different company than your vehicle. OEM parts should be included in your lease agreement if your car is on a contract.

4. All insurance communications can be handled by your auto shop.

Except for initiating the claims process, you don’t need to act as a middleman between your auto repair shop and your insurance company. From the initial estimate through final billing, your repair shop should coordinate all aspects of the work that is being done on your vehicle.

5. If you discover new damage, ask to be notified.

Auto mechanics may find additional damage while they are fixing your repair. To notify your insurance company, technicians must report any additional damage to be approved to do these repairs.

Call Miller Brothers Transmission Auto Repair and Body Shop now if you need help in repairing your car.

Like our Facebook page for more great info about auto repair shops.

Miller Brothers Transmission Auto Repair and Body Shop
7123 Tazewell Pike
Corryton, TN 37721
(865) 689-5072
https://www.millerbrosautorepair.com/

Serving Knoxville, TN and Knox County

Service areas include: All of Knox County, Corryton, Fountain City, Halls Crossroads, Powell and Knoxville

Step-by-Step Guide to Car Accident Repair

Whether you were just in an accident or are in the midst of searching for an auto body shop, it helps to understand the car accident repair process. Read on for a step-by-step guide, expert tips, claims and coverage details, FAQs and more!

If you’re looking for an auto body shop or just got involved in an accident, you need to know the process involved in car accident repair. Here is a step-by-step guide that you should know.

Understanding The Car Accident Repair Process

1. Call 911 to get to safety

First, get out of the way of any other traffic. You should then call the police. This is legal in certain states, regardless of whether you are in a minor or major collision.

An accident report will be prepared by the responding officer, which you might need to give to your insurance company. You can file a report at the nearest police station if an officer is unable to reach the scene.

2. All things should be documented

Taking pictures of the scene is one of the most important actions you can take. This includes:

• All cars involved in the accident
• Weather conditions
• Road conditions
• Lighting on the roads
• Any injuries that you may have sustained
• You should contact another driver if you were involved in an accident.

3. Don’t Admit Fault

You tell the truth if you are responsible for an accident. But, don’t be afraid to stick to the facts. Remember that it is up to the insurance companies who determine the fault.

4. Seek medical attention

You might not need to seek medical attention if you haven’t suffered any visible injuries from the accident. Immediately after an accident, your body starts pumping adrenaline which can make injuries sometimes difficult to detect. You should immediately seek medical attention if you have any visible injuries. Even if you feel fine and the accident was minor, it is important to make an appointment with your primary doctor for an examination.

5. Get in touch with your insurance company

You can either start a claim while you are still at the scene or afterward. You will be given an overview of what the next steps are and what you can expect.

6. Locate a car accident repair shop

You may be offered a list by your insurance company of preferred shops to take your vehicle to for repairs. However, you don’t have to follow their recommendations. You have the option to choose an auto repair and body shop you feel comfortable with or search for one near you.

No matter what route you take, ensure your auto body shop offers these:

• Free, quick estimates
• I-CAR-certified technicians
• All repairs covered by a lifetime limited warranty

A meticulous quality control process

Each auto body shop is unique and will vary in how extensive the repairs are. When you bring your vehicle in for repairs, the following steps can be expected:

Estimate: An auto body shop will assess the extent of damage to your vehicle and compile an estimate. This will allow you to get an estimate of the extent of damage and the cost of potential repairs.

Insurance Approval: Your insurance company will receive the estimate from the auto body shop. This step is not a simple one.

Dropoff: After the estimate has been approved, you can bring your vehicle to be repaired.

Disassembly – Technicians will disassemble your vehicle and create a blueprint for the repairs.

Order Parts: Once a blueprint is available, replacement parts can be ordered. In order to obtain the best parts for the lowest price, this requires coordination with your insurance company.

All structural and mechanical repairs are covered. This step can be completed before new parts arrive in most cases.

Painting: Restoring vehicles to factory condition with a new coat of paint.

Reassembly – After all pieces have been freshly painted, the vehicle can be fully reassembled.

Detailing: This includes cleaning, vacuuming and finishing touches.

Final inspection and delivery: The vehicle is inspected by the quality control department. Your vehicle will be ready for collection once they approve.

Auto mechanics may find additional damage while they are fixing your car. To notify your insurance company, technicians must report any additional damage to be approved to do these repairs.

Call Miller Brothers Transmission Auto Repair and Body Shop now if you need help in repairing your car.

Like our Facebook page for more great info about auto repair shops.

Miller Brothers Transmission Auto Repair and Body Shop
7123 Tazewell Pike
Corryton, TN 37721
(865) 689-5072
https://www.millerbrosautorepair.com/

Serving Knoxville, TN and Knox County

Service areas include: All of Knox County, Corryton, Fountain City, Halls Crossroads, Powell and Knoxville

7 Ways To Make Your Car Last Longer

Owning a car can bring enjoyment and relaxation. However, without regular maintenance, cars can be a source of major frustration. Preventive auto tuneups will ensure that repairs are not costly. You will save money on repairs if you are more knowledgeable about cars. Always see to it that you gain enough knowledge about your car to make it easier to work alongside a mechanic in case you run into a problem with your vehicle. These tips can help you keep your car in good condition without having to take it to the auto repair shop every so often.

Reduce your driving

You can save money on fuel and maintenance by reducing the miles you drive each week. You can reduce your driving by taking public transport, walking, biking, or carpooling. While you will still need your car to keep fluids flowing and prevent parts from rusting, it is best to take shorter trips whenever possible. Your vehicle’s lifespan can be extended by carpooling for a few days each week. While you don’t have to stop recreational driving, it is important to limit your enjoyment of these rides.

Avoid overdoing it with the Accelerator

Traffic laws are becoming more strict than ever. Forget about your dream of driving a race car on the streets or highways. You don’t have to go faster than a car capable of accelerating from 0-60 mph in five seconds. A slower acceleration is better for your car’s health. You don’t need to rev the engine as hard when you first start your car, especially in colder weather. You will see a smoother engine if the oil has had time to warm up before you drive.

Pay attention to the engine

If you notice anything unusual with your engine, it should be checked immediately. If you hear a ticking sound coming from the engine, or if the engine makes a loud clicking noise when you turn the ignition on, it could be a sign of a serious problem. It is best to get it checked immediately. You should have your engine checked if you notice an indicator light up. Even if the engine is in good condition, you should have the light repaired so that it doesn’t distract from your attention. Your engine is the heart of your vehicle. It must be kept clean, particularly within the cylinders.

Regular oil and fluid changes

It is possible to ignore your oil and cause engine damage. Check your manual to see the recommended oil change intervals, which are usually every 1000-3000 miles. It is important to check vital fluids regularly, especially during seasonal changes. Go to your trusted auto mechanic for regular car maintenance.

Do not store heavy objects

You don’t need to store heavy items in your vehicle unless you have a large truck. The extra weight can cause your tires to wear faster and put more strain on the vehicle. While it’s okay to transport items that can fit into your car, you should find a better storage solution for longer periods. It’s better to store your vehicle in a garage, carport, or somewhere else, especially during winter.

Get periodic tune-ups

To determine how often you should have your car checked by a professional at a reputable auto repair shop and consult the manufacturer’s manual. Modern cars do not require as many tune-ups, but it is still important to have your car checked out by an expert every once in a while. Although it may not seem obvious, a clogged fuel line can cause poor gas mileage and can also affect efficiency. Most importantly, ensure that all safety features such as brakes are working properly at all times.

It is important to check your tires regularly in order to prevent accidents. Tires can burst if they become bald. If your tires become smooth around the edges, you may need to align your front end.

Find an Honest Mechanic

You should find a trusted mechanic with experience. Due to ignorance, many mechanics charge too much. Miller Brothers Transmission Auto Repair and Body Shop is your local automotive expert in Corryton. We offer quality automotive services for all makes and models.

Call Miller Brothers Transmission Auto Repair and Body Shop now for an auto tune-up, bodywork, and other professional automotive services.

Like our Facebook page for more great info about auto services.

Miller Brothers Transmission Auto Repair and Body Shop
7123 Tazewell Pike
Corryton, TN 37721
(865) 689-5072
https://www.millerbrosautorepair.com/

Serving Knoxville, TN and Knox County

Service areas include: All of Knox County, Corryton, Fountain City, Halls Crossroads, Powell and Knoxville

Preventative Car Maintenance Tips for the Changing Seasons

Car maintenance is an ongoing practice that should be done all year. However, it becomes more important in the changing seasons and when the road conditions change.

The top priority of Miller Brothers Transmission Auto Repair and Body Shop is to provide excellent service to all of our customers and to ensure that our clients and their families are safe on the roads. We have compiled this list of five car maintenance tips to help you and your vehicle stay safe in the changing seasons.

Car Maintenance Tips

Tires

Because your tires change with the seasons, this is an important part of seasonal preventive maintenance. You can choose to drive in all seasons until snow and ice hit, or switch between winter and summer tires depending on the weather. This will require you to help with switching back and forth and making sure everything aligns properly for safe and smooth driving.

As summer turns to fall, and winter comes with the snow and ice of winter, it’s not just about changing your tires. Regular maintenance of your tires includes wheel alignment and rotation.

Your tires’ tread wears down over time. Usually, one side is more worn than the other. This can lead to uneven driving and make it more difficult to steer your vehicle properly. Rotating your tires frequently will ensure even wear, which improves vehicle performance and prolongs the life of your tires.

Oil Change

Spring and summer can lead to a buildup of debris and dust. The effects of the environment on your car’s well-being are greater during warm seasons. This is why it is important to have your oil changed. Your oil can become dirty over time.

The heat of the summer can also cause fluid depletion faster. Your car’s oil can become clumpy and sticky over time, making it unusable. Every 6 months, or 10,000 miles, you should have your oil changed.

Brake Inspection

When it is snowy or icy, brake power decreases. This makes any season change an opportunity to have a brake inspection. To make sure that everything is working properly, your auto mechanic will inspect the rotor, caliper, drum, and pads. This is the time to change your brake pads if they have not been changed in a while. Put the new pads on your car and you will give it the best chance of stopping when it breaks. You’ll be glad you did it when the roads become slick.

Heating and air conditioning

You need a vehicle that can properly regulate the temperature when the weather changes. Seasonal changes can mean that your AC and heating systems need to be checked. The auto repair shop will inspect your vehicle and check for leaks and problems with fluids or vents. He’ll also make minor repairs so that it is comfortable and warm in winter and cool in summer.

Car Tune-up

Uncertain which part of your car needs the most attention? Care tune-ups are a great way for you to relax before the weather and seasons change. Your mechanic will check for any issues with your engine, ignition, battery, or engine and will scan for default codes.

This will ensure that your vehicle is safe. There is no standard on what needs to be checked during a car tune-up. It varies from one shop to the next. Miller Brothers Transmission Auto Repair and Body Shop will catch any problem quickly and have it fixed right away so that you don’t have to worry later.

Call Miller Brothers Transmission Auto Repair and Body Shop now if you’re looking for a reliable auto repair shop.

Like our Facebook page for more great info about auto services.

Miller Brothers Transmission Auto Repair and Body Shop
7123 Tazewell Pike
Corryton, TN 37721
(865) 689-5072
https://www.millerbrosautorepair.com/

Serving Knoxville, TN and Knox County

Service areas include: All of Knox County, Corryton, Fountain City, Halls Crossroads, Powell and Knoxville