Preventative Car Maintenance Tips For the Changing Seasons

As winter approaches and the roads become increasingly treacherous, Miller Brothers Transmission Auto Repair and Body Shop are here to ensure your family stays safe. With preventative car maintenance, you can be confident that your car is prepared for anything Mother Nature throws its way. To help get started on making sure you’re ready for seasonal changes, we’ve collected our top 5 car maintenance tips – from checking tire pressure to topping off fluids – so nothing takes a wrong turn this season!

Car Maintenance Tips You Need To Know

1. Tires:

As temperatures and climates vary, so too should the tires you utilize on your vehicle. To ensure a safe journey no matter what weather conditions lie ahead, it is essential to properly maintain your car by switching between all-season or summer/winter tire sets depending on the season. Let an expert in seasonal preventive auto maintenance take care of this task for you and guarantee reliable performance every time!

Summer winding down and the impending winter months arriving can bring about more than just a change of tires – it’s also essential to maintain your vehicle’s tire alignment and rotation. Over time, uneven wear on the tread develops which can impair driving performance; rotating your tires ensures that their life is maximized while providing even contact with the road surface for improved handling.

2. Oil Change:

Warmer months can take a toll on your vehicle, causing dust and debris to accumulate. To ensure that your car continues running at optimal performance levels throughout the seasons, it’s important to get an oil change regularly – every six months or 10,000 miles is recommended. This prevents the buildup of clumpy residue which results from prolonged exposure to heat over time; maintaining clean engine fluid helps maintain its efficacy even in harsh summer conditions.

3. Brake Inspection:

As temperatures change, so should your approach to brakes. Give your vehicle the best chance of a clean stop in any weather by scheduling an inspection with your auto mechanic – they’ll check out pads, calipers, and rotors for functionality before winter arrives. Your stopping power on icy roads will be much better if you invest in fresh brake pads now rather than later; plus its peace of mind knowing no matter what Mother Nature throws at us, you’re ready for anything!

4. Heating and Air Conditioning:

Seasonal temperature changes can make all the difference in your driving experience. Make sure you’re prepared for summer heat and winter chill with regular maintenance of your vehicle’s heating or AC system! Your mechanic will inspect, check fluid levels, secure vents and fix minor problems to give you a pleasant ride no matter what temperatures hit outside.

5. Tune-Up:

Keep your car running smoothly with a tune-up from Miller Brothers Transmission Auto Repair and Body Shop. Our technicians will thoroughly inspect the ignition, battery, and engine to catch any potential problems before they become real issues that could leave you stranded on the side of the road come winter or summertime. We understand there isn’t a set formula for what should get checked during a tune so at our shop we always go above and beyond to make sure all components are in top condition. Don’t let pesky breakdowns spoil sudden season changes — stop by today!

At Miller Brothers Transmission Auto Repair and Body Shop, we’re passionate about delivering the best auto services around. We strive to meet our clients every need – and have a team of friendly experts ready to do just that! Whether you’d like some advice on preventative maintenance or would simply like your vehicle checked over by one of our certified mechanics; all it takes is a simple appointment booking with us today. Our commitment goes beyond taking care of your car: from the moment you step into the shop, we want to make sure everything runs smoothly for you too — so don’t hesitate in getting in touch if there’s something else on your mind!

Call Miller Brothers Transmission Auto Repair and Body Shop now if you need the help of the best auto mechanic in your area.

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

Car Maintenance Tips Before A Road Trip

A road trip is an exciting adventure, but car trouble can quickly put a damper on the fun. Don’t let it ruin your plans. Take some proactive steps in car maintenance to make sure that you and your vehicle are prepared for whatever lies ahead! A little time spent performing simple maintenance tasks before departure may save you from spending hours in the service station during vacation instead of enjoying all those miles between destinations.

Car Maintenance Tips

Check The Battery

Maintain your car’s battery annually after it ages two years or more. This includes checking the connection is secure and free of corrosion, which may require a wire brush if there’s buildup. Though you can try to clean off any corrosion yourself, be sure to take necessary precautions as batteries contain corrosive acid that could spill if connectors are forcefully removed. For added safety and peace of mind, an auto mechanic should check on your vehicle’s power source each year.

Check Belts and Hoses

It’s critical to ensure your car’s electrical, power steering, and cooling systems are functioning optimally. Have the engine belts and hoses inspected regularly – checking for fraying or cracking of the belts, as well as any leaks or drips with regard to hoses. Additionally, make sure your belt tension is secure without excess slack. To keep up-to-date on recommended service intervals according to your particular vehicle model; consult its owner’s manual – typically starting at 60k miles in some cases!

Change Filters and Top Off Fluids

Before taking a road trip, make sure to inspect your car’s vital fluids and verify they are up to the levels outlined by its manufacturer. It is also recommended that you top these off if necessary or have an oil change before traveling – this will ensure optimal performance on longer journeys. The NHTSA advises drivers to check their engine coolant/antifreeze tank for any potential leaks in order to prevent unforeseen issues when out on the highway.

To keep your car running at its best, it’s important to stay up-to-date on simple maintenance tasks such as routinely replacing the engine air filter. This small step prevents dirt and debris from compromising acceleration performance by clogging or otherwise obstructing the system.

Check Lights and Electrical System

Ensure all the lights of your car are working, and swap out any bulbs that may’ve burned out. Maintaining active windshield wipers is essential too; experts recommend changing them up every 6 months to ensure they effectively wipe away water while staying streak-free. To make sure you’re road trip ready, also inspect air conditioning systems — should it not be blowing as coldly as usual in warm climates, consider taking it for an auto service checkup with an experienced auto mechanic in Knoxville TN!

Inspect The Brakes

Worn brake pads can be the cause of unexpected squeals when you hit the brakes. Don’t take risks on roads – have them professionally inspected before your next drive! Does pressing down feel more like sinking into a sponge rather than making contact with solid resistance? This could indicate low levels of braking fluid, so check this and top it off to ensure maximum safety while out on frequent drives.

Check The Tires

Make sure your car is ready for the road with a comprehensive tire check! According to the NHTSA, start by ensuring tires are properly inflated when cold before any trip, and don’t forget about your spare. You can also check tread quality using the penny method; if Abe Lincoln’s head is visible on top, it may be time for a new set of rubber. Uneven wear? That could mean it’s high time for an alignment or rotation. Have yours inspected at home by an experienced mechanic now?

Make sure your vehicle is ready to hit the road before you embark on any long-distance trips. If there’s something that needs fixing, it’s better to diagnose and repair potential issues ahead of time rather than having an unexpected breakdown during vacation! Don’t hesitate to consult a professional car technician if needed – they can help ensure a smooth journey for all.

Call Miller Brothers Transmission Auto Repair and Body Shop now if you’re looking for a reliable auto shop to help you with the maintenance and repair of your vehicle.

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

Money-Saving Auto Tune Up Tips

There are many ways you can maintain your car’s health, and also save money over the long term. Here’s an auto tune up list to help you save money:

OIL CHANGES

Many drivers forget to change their oil, which can cause damage to their cars. Oil problems can be costly to fix. To avoid oil issues, remember that you only have to change your oil once you’ve had it done, you will still need to do the same for every 6,000 miles.

BATTERY CARE

Proper battery care is a great way to prolong the life of your vehicle’s batteries. Cleaning the battery is one way to care for it. You will need a pair of gloves, a stainless steel wire brush, and a microfiber towel. Cleaning your vehicle’s battery is important because it removes corrosion. A bad connection can cause your car to not start. Other problems could also occur. Cleaning your battery can prolong its life.

SPARE TIRE

Be ready for anything! It is important to have a spare tire in your car. This can help you avoid having to pay for towing. Make sure your spare tire is always ready and inflated. Your spare tire kit contains all the tools necessary to change your tire. You should consider buying a spare tire if your vehicle does not have one. Repairs and towing can cost more than buying a new tire.

BRAKE PAD REPLACEMENT

Are you hearing strange sounds from your brakes? Are they working properly? What about when you push the brake harder than usual to decrease your speed? This is something you should address immediately. To prevent this from happening, it is important to check your brake fluid and brakes every time you go for an oil change. You should change your brake system immediately if your brake fluid appears as a dark liquid.

AIR FILTER REPLACEMENT

Car air filters are designed to keep dirt, dust, and debris out of your engine. These materials can lead to engine deterioration or corroding. This is a serious problem that must be addressed if you want your car to perform well in extreme and varied weather conditions. In case you suspect something is wrong, visit your trusted auto repair shop for immediate action.

INSTALL NEW WIPERS

You should replace your windshield wipers if they are not working properly. Your windshield wipers must be able to withstand heavy rains and the fall of leaves. It is important to check your wipers at every change of season in order to ensure they are prepared for any changes in weather or terrain. Poor windshield wipers are an obvious safety risk in some states. You risk being in a collision if you can’t properly wipe off snow and rain.

TIRE ROTATION

Rotating your tires regularly can increase the life of your tires. It is important to rotate all four tires regularly, as they wear most often on the outside. Tire wear can cause slipping, and eventually a flat tire. It can cost a lot to replace a single or all four tires.

COOLANT TOPUP

Coolants can affect the heater, water pump, air conditioning system, radiator, and air conditioning system of your vehicle. Coolant cools the engine. Overheating can cause engine damage. Your engine can overheat, and it will shut down completely. This could leave you on the sidelines or cost you a tow. We recommend checking your coolant at minimum twice per year, before the warm weather starts or when winter is approaching.

CHECK THE SUSPENSION SYSTEM

Your car’s suspension system includes shocks, springs, and struts. Your car’s suspension system is an integral part. It is vital to determine if your shocks are in need of replacement. We inspect the shocks and complete the suspension system, as well as oil changes.

INSPECT HOSES AND BELTS

We recommend that you inspect your belts, hoses, and other devices. Belts that are worn down will usually break and eventually stop working. The engine’s belts create power by transferring energy to various components. If your radiator hose is damaged or missing, it can cause your engine not to run properly. Your belt should be replaced every 60,000 miles. We recommend that you replace your hoses once every four years, or when there is wear. Car maintenance in Corryton is necessary to keep your vehicle in top shape for the longest time possiblele.

When was the last time you brought your car in for maintenance? Tune-ups might be long overdue. Head over to Miller Brothers Transmission Auto Repair and Body Shop today and get your car professionally serviced.

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 Tune Up Checklist

You won’t enjoy the new car feeling if you don’t take care of your vehicle. The lack of proper auto tune up can cause safety issues and malfunctions that can lead to costly repairs. It’s not difficult to maintain your car. We have compiled a list of ways to help you keep it running smoothly for many years.

Car tuneup checklist

Tire maintenance

There are many factors that influence how often you need to change your tires, such as the type of car, where and how it is driven, and how well-maintained they are. Your vehicle’s tire pressure can help reduce wear and tear and give you the best gas mileage. Checking your tire pressure includes checking the PSI (pounds per square inch) and inflating/deflating the tires according to the recommendations. Overinflated or underinflated tires can cause many problems, as well as uneven wear. Flat tires can cause serious damage to your car and yourself. Rotate your tires every 5000-6,000 miles.

Light testing

You should ensure that your lights work properly. A broken or burned-out bulb can cause serious injury and even lead to a ticket. You should have your car checked by an expert to determine if the bulb has been damaged or if the fuse needs to be changed. Your car’s safety is partly dependent on your headlights. Keep them bright and clean by changing the bulbs or cleaning the lenses when they become dimming.

Replace windshield wipers

Don’t wait for your wipers to stop working. Worn-out or damaged blades can make it difficult to see in the rain and snow. They should be checked and replaced (if necessary) every six months. They can become damaged, worn, or cracked and may not be able to grip the windshield or remove snow, sleet, and rain.

Oil change

Regular oil changes are essential to maintain a healthy engine. Make sure to check your oil every month and change it as instructed in the owner’s guide. You will be able to see how much oil your car uses, and identify any potential problems before they occur. Oil changes should be performed every 5,000 miles, or every three months, whichever comes first.

Check the fluids

Other fluids, aside from oil should be kept at the right level in order to maintain a car’s performance. These fluids include:

• Engine oil
• Coolant
• Power steering fluid
• Brake fluid
• Transmission fluid
• Washer fluid

Low levels can cause your car to behave differently and may lead to damage. It might be possible to identify the fluid color and help your auto mechanic or you determine where it is coming from. This will speed up the repair process.

Inspect the brakes

Your car’s brakes are an essential part of its maintenance. They should not be neglected. Regular inspection is necessary. There is no set schedule, but you should have your brakes checked every time your tires are rotated. To understand the service schedule for your vehicle, consult the owner’s manual. The location and how you drive will affect the wear of your brake pads. Because of the constant stopping and starting of city traffic, brake pads can wear faster in urban areas than they will on rural roads.

Wash your car when needed

Although you may not consider washing your car a maintenance task, it is vital. Everyday dirt, road salt, ice melt, and sap can all be found on your vehicle. These things are not only unattractive to look at but can also cause damage to your vehicle, including to the paint, undercarriage, brake lines, and electrical wires. Keeping your car clean may help prevent long-term damage.

Inspect hoses and belts

Keep your car’s hoses and belts in good condition to keep it running smoothly. Many of your car’s systems could fail if your serpentine belt is damaged while you drive. To ensure that they are in good condition, have them checked at each oil change. Every time you bring your car in for service, make sure that your mechanic in Corryton does a thorough inspection of all parts.

Get regular car maintenance

Regular check-ups by professionals are a must to ensure that all your vehicle’s systems run smoothly. Some routine maintenance can be done at home, but others require professional attention. Routine checks are important to avoid any major problems that may arise due to age or mileage.

Protect from the Weather

Protecting your vehicle from the elements is one of the most important things you can do. Your vehicle can be damaged by the weather. The most serious things that can cause damage to your vehicle, both inside and outside, are extreme cold and heat. In winter, make sure to park in a covered area. Make sure you park your car in a garage. Snow can cause damage to your vehicle. Not only can it cause damage to the exterior, but also freeze interior parts.

When was the last time you brought your car in for maintenance? Tune-ups might be long overdue. Head over to Miller Brothers Transmission Auto Repair and Body Shop today and get your car professionally serviced.

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

The Importance Of Wheel Alignment

Do you feel the steering wheel is crooked when driving straight? Are you feeling a pull to one or the other side while driving? You probably need a wheel alignment and are not paying attention to your vehicle’s maintenance. Let’s discuss when you should recommend a tire alignment.

An important suspension-tuning tool, a wheel alignment can influence the operation of your vehicle’s tires. Let’s face the facts: Wheel alignment is complicated. Wheel alignment refers to a system that measures suspension angles and adjusts suspension components.

It is important to know the alignment angles for the camber, toe, and caster. You can also use this information to understand why your car is not in alignment and what the consequences will be if you refuse an alignment service. Let’s now discuss some questions and how to answer them.

What is a wheel alignment?

A technician will adjust your vehicle’s suspension angles using the technology in the shop. This will ensure that your vehicle is straight down the road and provides a comfortable ride. You can get a wheel alignment done at your local tire shop or auto repair shop.

Why does my wheel need to be aligned?

There could be many reasons. It is normal for suspension parts to wear over time. If they are hit by a curb or a pothole, it can cause alignment problems.

What is the worst-case scenario for me if I don’t get a wheel alignment in Corryton?

If you have problems with your vehicle’s handling, you should get one as soon as possible. It’s not about what happens now, but what happens over time. Uneven pressure on the tires can result from a misaligned suspension. Over time, uneven tire wear can lead to uneven tire wear, which could mean that you need to purchase tires sooner than necessary. It will also make it difficult to drive the vehicle. You may feel vibrations in the steering wheel if the tires wear unevenly. This could lead to other problems. Last but not least, cars work harder if the tires are worn unevenly. The more difficult the car works, it will burn more fuel. When the tires are worn unevenly and are out of alignment, you will end up paying more for gas. Be sure to visit an auto repair shop like Miller Brothers Transmission Auto Repair and Body Shop for complete automotive services.

Misaligned wheels can lower your gas mileage and even possibly put you in harm’s way. Visit Miller Brothers Transmission Auto Repair and Body Shop today and get your wheels aligned.

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

Do Auto Body Shops Report Car Damage To Insurance Companies?

Car accidents happen every day. Sometimes your vehicle may be damaged beyond repair. You might be curious about whether auto body shops report damage to insurance companies when it comes to repairs. Let’s take a look at what happens at an auto shop when it comes to insurance and reporting damage.

What Happens in an Auto Body Shop?

After an accident, your auto body shop in Corryton will ask if you are going to have insurance or pay out of pocket. While you have the right to request an estimate before you decide to purchase insurance, it is possible for more damage to occur during the repair process. The repair facility will take photos of your vehicle and provide a detailed estimate of labor and parts costs. Based on their assessment, the estimator will include any additional work such as frame straightening or paint touch-ups.

Are Auto Body Shops Required to Report Damage to Insurance Companies?

Absolutely, if you have insurance. After assessing the damage, and preparing an estimate, they will contact your insurance company to review your claim details. Your insurance company may need additional documentation or information before they approve the auto body repair cost. An adjuster may be sent out to inspect the vehicle before the final approval of payment. In such cases, it is important to have an auto body repair facility certified in order to ensure that your insurance company covers the quality of the repair. Once everything is approved by your insurance company, they will pay directly to an automotive body shop for any repairs done on your vehicle.

What if you don’t have insurance?

If you don’t have any insurance or decide not to file a claim, you will be responsible for all costs associated with repairing your vehicle. In this instance, the repair facility is not required to report the vehicle to an insurance company. Depending on your insurance policy, you may be required to report any damage to your vehicle. Before you start any work on your car, the auto repair shop should give you a detailed invoice detailing all costs. You should also be provided with an invoice detailing the time it will take to complete all repairs so that you know when your vehicle will be back from them.

If you have insurance, auto body shops can report any damage caused by an accident. This ensures customers get fair and accurate compensation for any repairs that are required after an accident. Employees at auto body shops must adhere to the law regarding honesty and accuracy in reporting damage. Fraudulent activities could result in serious consequences for all parties. At Miller Brothers, we take pride in honest and top-notch auto services. You can count on us to get your car repaired in the best possible way.

Getting your car repaired can be a hassle but we aim to improve your experience. Visit Miller Brothers Transmission Auto Repair and Body Shop today and witness hassle-free auto repairs first-hand!

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

When To Visit A Local Auto Body Shop

A minor scratch on your car can not only be annoying but could also expose the paint and metal underneath your vehicle, which could lower its resale price. The good news? Most nicks or scuffs can be fixed if you have the right tools. However, for more serious scratches, you will need to see an auto body shop and have it fixed.

It is important to get the car scratch repaired quickly. Delaying will expose the metal or paint underneath and cause further problems down the line. An auto body repair is essential if you are considering selling your car or trading it. Any bodywork issues, no matter how small, could impact your trade-in estimate.

Here are some signs you should visit an auto body shop in Corryton:

An auto body shop is a business that repairs cars, trucks, or other vehicles. They can do basic repairs such as repairing scratches and dents, or more complex repairs such as repainting the vehicle’s surface or replacing damaged parts due to accident damage. These are six signs that you should visit an auto body shop:

1. The car’s surface is dented or scratched

While car dents and scratches are quite common, if you have a lot of them, it might be worth visiting an auto body shop near you. Although some people may try to fix small scratches or dents on their vehicle at home it is not recommended and can be very time-consuming. The best option for your vehicle is to have it repaired by an auto body shop. They have the industrial tools and experience needed to deal with such surface damage.

2. Your car has been involved in a collision

An auto body shop can help you if you are involved in a car accident. Collision damage can cause minor cosmetic problems to serious internal and structural damage that will require extensive repairs. The auto body shop that you choose will assess the extent of damage and provide an estimate of the cost to repair it.

3. Weather damage to your car

You should take your vehicle to an auto body shop if it has been damaged by weather conditions like hail and snow. A professional auto body shop can help restore your vehicle’s paint from hail and snow damage.

4. The paint job on your vehicle is fading

Your vehicle’s paintwork adds aesthetic value and protects the interior metal. You will need to bring your vehicle into an auto body shop for a touch-up or repaint if the paint is damaged or worn. You cannot guarantee your car will look professional if you try to paint it yourself.

5. Broken parts need to be repaired or replaced

Broken parts include anything from a damaged headlight to a damaged side mirror and many other parts. Auto repair shops are able to replace any part of your vehicle at the most affordable prices.

Fixing car scratches on your own isn’t rocket science but requires a certain skill set. To make sure scratches and dents are dealt with properly, visit an auto body shop near you. Visit Miller Brothers Transmission Auto Repair and Body Shop today!

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