Friday, May 5, 2023

Auto Maintenance: How to Prepare Your Car for Summer



The warm summer weather can be tough on your vehicle. The heat expands the tire air and increases the cooling system’s workload. The harsh sun can cause hoses and belts to wear faster. You can reduce the damage that heat and sunlight do to your car by taking the proper precautions and regular auto maintenance.

Here are summer auto maintenance tips to “summerize” your vehicle. The majority of these tasks can be performed at home with minimal tools.

Summer Auto Maintenance Tips

1. Winter tires can be removed and the air pressure checked.

They are only useful in winter. Winter tires will also wear out much faster if you use them on warm, dried pavement. Use summer or all-season tires instead of winter tires.

The ideal would be to have two sets: one with winter tires, and the other with all-season or summer tires. It will save you the trouble and cost of having the summer tires remounted.

It is vital to regularly check your tire pressure, no matter what you are doing with your wheels. Properly inflated tires are essential. Proper inflation ensures that the tires have the best possible contact with the road. Incorrectly inflated tires can cause a tire to overheat and possibly blow out on the highway.

You can find out the correct tire pressure by checking your owner’s guide or the door jamb on the driver’s side. Check the tire pressure in the morning when the tires are still cold. Properly inflated tires will last longer and increase gas mileage.

auto-maintenance-2-1-300x188.jpg2. You will need your air conditioner in the summer, but you probably didn’t use much of it in the winter.

Check if the A/C still blows cool air. Be alert to strange sounds or smells. You can check your air conditioner yourself or ask your mechanic to do so. It may be that the system needs cleaning, has a leak, or requires recharging.

3. You may have used wiper fluid to de-ice your windshield a lot.

If necessary, top of the wiper liquid reservoir. Some people may also opt for a product that clears the glass from bugs.

Also, check the wipers. We recommend that you replace these during the winter months, as the heat may dry out the rubber. If summer storms are frequent in your area you may want to consider replacing the wipers now. Check to see if the wipers streak the glass when you use the new washer fluid.

4. Under-the-hood Inspection:

Who can blame you for not having opened the hood during winter? Now that it’s warm enough to enjoy an afternoon outdoors, now is the time to inspect your car. Before you do this, make sure that the engine has cooled down. Check these items:

Battery: Check the terminals of your battery for corrosion. Baking soda and a brush can be used to remove the corrosion. Check the battery again in a few months to see if corrosion has returned. This could indicate a serious problem. The majority of modern batteries are “maintenance-free,” meaning they do not need to be filled with water.

Oil: In years past, it was common wisdom to use heavier oil during the summer months and a lighter one in the winter. This advice is old and should not be applied to cars built within the last 10-15 years. Modern cars require a very specific type of oil, and their engines are built to handle a wide temperature range with factory oil. Check your owner’s guide to find out what kind of oil you need for your vehicle.

You should take your car to be serviced by a reputable auto repair shop if you have a maintenance light on and if you have been putting it off due to cold weather. Check the oil level in the meantime. Check the oil level and top it up if it is low. Here are illustrated step-by-step instructions with a video to help you change your own oil.

Check the condition and level of the coolant. It should be clear and not cloudy. Use the pre-diluted mixes to make it easier. This video goes into more detail about how to check your coolant and what you should look for.

You should not top up the brake fluid if the level appears low. The brake fluid level will often drop in proportion to the pad wear. If the fluid level is low, it could be an indication of a brake leak. In this case, topping up the fluid will only delay the inevitable. Take your car to a mechanic or dealer if you are running low on brake liquid. They can examine the brake system.

5. Wax and wash your car.

Road salts and grime left behind by melting snow can be hard on the clear coat, paintwork, and undercarriage of a vehicle. Summer is the perfect time to detail your car. A sunny weekend is the best time to wash your car. The job will also last longer. You can either take your car to a car wash for a detailed cleaning or you can follow these instructions to do it on your own. Here’s how to wash your car without having to.

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

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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 CountyCorrytonFountain CityHalls CrossroadsPowell, and Knoxville

Wednesday, May 3, 2023

Auto Maintenance Tips To Beat The Summer Heat



U.S. drivers are making longer trips this summer than before the pandemic. The high temperatures in summer can be dangerous to your car’s performance, but the dangers are magnified when there are more cars on the road. That’s why auto maintenance is crucial during this time of the year.

Here are some car maintenance tips that will keep your car running smoothly and keep you safe during the summer heat. If you are planning a road trip, or a quick drive to run errands to get to work, make sure that:

Summer Auto Maintenance Tips

1. Inflate your tires regularly

Tire pressure can be negatively affected by high temperatures, so make sure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires will overheat more in summer.

Overheated tires are more likely to blow out, which can be dangerous for you and other vehicles. Check your vehicle’s manual or inside the driver’s door if you are unsure of the correct inflation level.

Check your spare tire while you’re there to make sure it’s properly inflated and will serve you if needed.

2. Check your windshield wiper blades

Auto-maintenance-2-300x225.jpgWiper blades can be damaged by extreme weather changes. Make sure your wiper blades are working properly so you can maintain clear visibility and safety during summer storms.

It’s not necessary to wait for a severe storm to test your wipers. You can test the effectiveness of your windshield wipers before you drive by putting them up on their side and running your fingers along the blades. Replace them if you find pieces missing or if they are rough.

Carry a spare pair of windshield wipers with you on a road trip. This will save time and provide an extra measure of safety in the event that your wipers are rendered ineffective in a severe storm. Replace them as soon as you can.

3. Check your air conditioner

Discomfort is a distraction. Make sure that your car air conditioner works efficiently if you want to be comfortable and cool while driving during the hot summer months.

Check your air filter first to make sure it is not clogged up with dust or dirt. Check to see if your coolant levels are correct. It will keep your air conditioner working and your engine cool.

4. Keep your car away from the sun

The sun’s extreme heat can increase the risk of your airbags, belts, and hoses failing, cracking, or breaking. You can keep your car in good working order by parking in the shade or in a garage.

The summer sun can also damage your car’s interior and exterior fabric. This will decrease the value of your vehicle. To give your car additional protection, you can buy a car shade to cover your windshield. You can also use a UV polish on your car.

Safety and preparation are important all year round. These tips will help you keep your car running smoothly even on the hottest summer days. These are the essentials you should always have in your vehicle.

Call Miller Brothers Transmission Auto Repair and Body Shop now if you need professional help in dealing with your car problems.

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 CountyCorrytonFountain CityHalls CrossroadsPowell and Knoxville

Monday, May 1, 2023

The Benefits Of Regular Car Maintenance



The goal of car maintenance is to ensure that all the systems in a car are working correctly. This could include changing fluids, replacing or cleaning parts, and tightening components. Regular maintenance is essential, regardless of whether your car requires additional attention.

Repairs are needed when a vehicle does not run properly. They are expensive because they require dealing with unexpected problems and paying for extra labor and parts.

You can avoid or fix problems by performing scheduled maintenance. This will not only save you money on repairs but also the time, stress, and danger that come with a breakdown. Car maintenance in Knoxville TN also helps to keep your car running as efficiently and cleanly as possible. This has a positive impact on the environment and limits your contribution towards local air pollution.

Regular maintenance is good for the environment and saves time and money. Let’s now look at the specific benefits of following your vehicle’s maintenance schedule.

Why Regular Car Maintenance Is Crucial?

Keeps Your Car Running Longer

Regular maintenance by a reputable auto repair shop such as fluid flushes and component cleaning can help keep your car on the road longer. Some of these tasks may be possible to do yourself.

Two financial benefits come with longevity. A well-maintained car will not need the same repairs as an older vehicle. The longer the vehicle is in service, the more time you have to wait before purchasing a brand-new car. New cars require either a large upfront cash payment or a monthly payment plan.

The environment is affected by the production of new cars as well as the scrapping of older vehicles. The act of assembling a vehicle, along with sourcing materials like rubber, steel, and plastic, leaves a significant carbon footprint. Battery acids, fluids, and plastics are not recyclable even though 75% of old car components can be recycled. They can cause pollution, toxicity, and other issues in the environment.

When should you buy a new vehicle? You can delay this decision by performing regular vehicle maintenance, but you’ll eventually have to decide if it is worth the effort. When faced with major repairs such as engine or transmission replacements that, according to Edmunds could cost anywhere between $3,000-$7,000, you could trade in or scrap your old vehicle. If the repair and maintenance costs of your car exceed half its value, you may decide to sell it.

The environmental benefits of new cars may outweigh their carbon emissions. Emissions from newer cars have decreased by 23 percent, and fuel efficiency has increased by 30 percent since 2004. You may want to upgrade if a new car would provide a significant improvement in fuel efficiency.

car-maintenance-2-300x200.jpgImproves Fuel Efficiency

Maintenance can improve fuel economy dramatically. Regular tune-ups increase fuel efficiency by 4%. Find your car’s OBD connector and use a diagnostic device to check for larger issues that may be causing problems with efficiency. When you see maintenance warning lights on your vehicle’s information console, you can use a diagnostic tool. You can pair this device with an online code database or app to better understand the diagnostic data.

You can increase fuel efficiency by up to 3% by checking tire pressure. Changing motor oil will also result in a 2% improvement. When you combine these regular maintenance tasks together, they can help ensure that your vehicle is using the least amount of fuel possible. This will benefit your wallet, and reduce pollution.

How to Increase the Value of Your Car

The value of a used car can vary significantly depending on its state. When determining a price for a new car or trade-in, most buyers and dealers consider the model, trim, make, and condition. The condition of the car may be assessed using a code-reading device and visual inspections. Keep a log of your maintenance to show that you took care of your car and maximized its value.

Regular maintenance will reduce the wear and tear on a vehicle and ensure that new buyers won’t need to worry about major auto repairs. Resale and trade-in values will be affected by the likelihood of major repairs. You may be required to perform regular maintenance in order to maintain the warranty on a new vehicle. If you fail to comply, the warranty may be voided.

It is safer

A poorly maintained car can be expensive, but it can also pose a risk to the driver, passengers, pedestrians, and other road users. Lack of maintenance can increase the likelihood of a malfunctioning vehicle. This issue could be dangerous if it occurs while driving.

For example, worn brake pads or a lack of brake fluid could reduce stopping power, increasing the risk of an accident. Regular maintenance includes replacing both of these items.

Inefficient engines, leaking fluids, and emission issues can also cause harm to the environment. These factors increase carbon emissions and release toxic substances.

Fewer vehicle repairs

You can run a diagnostic test to determine if a problem is present. You can avoid costly repairs by confirming a problem as soon as it is detected.

With proper maintenance, your vehicle will require fewer repairs, as everything will be properly greased and worn parts replaced before they cause additional damage.

Reduce the chances of your car breaking down

Regular maintenance will also reduce the chances of you being stranded by a car that is malfunctioning. Towing and repairs are expensive when a car breaks down. The average towing cost at $109. This cost is in addition to the parts, labor, and fees required to fix whatever broke down.

Consider the inconvenience of waiting for repairs, as well as the stress you will feel if you are stuck at the side of the road.

Call Miller Brothers Transmission Auto Repair and Body Shop now if you’re looking for a reliable auto shop that can take care of all your car issues.

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 CountyCorrytonFountain CityHalls CrossroadsPowell, and Knoxville

Wednesday, April 26, 2023

Tips To Avoid Car Accidents



It’s not always the obvious things that have the biggest impact. You’ve studied statistics and taken driving classes. What about the statistics that show teen drivers have a higher rate of car accidents?

Steps to avoid car accidents

Develop the right attitude towards driving. Teen auto accidents often result from attitude and maturity rather than skills or knowledge. Commit to driving with a responsible attitude. You are in control of over 3,000 pounds of fast-moving metal.

As much practice driving under supervision as you can. You should involve your parents in the practice of driving. Set a schedule and stick to it. Keep it up until your license test.

In many states, graduated licensing laws are now in place. Visit the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety to learn more about your state’s laws.

Always wear your seat belt.

Wear your safety belt every time you’re in a vehicle, as a passenger or driver – there are no exceptions.

Illegal underage drinking and drug usage.

Even if a single drink or joint is consumed, the brain can still be affected by a chemical reaction that affects judgment and response time. You could lose your license or even your life if you drive under the influence. For more information on drug abuse, visit Above the Influence.

Limit your passengers.

Every additional passenger increases the risk of a fatal accident. It’s best to keep your passengers low when you are a novice driver.

Limit your night-time driving.

For every mile driven, the risk of a fatal accident is three times greater at night. Avoid night driving until you feel comfortable with driving during the daylight hours.

car-accidents-2-300x171.jpgStart out slow and cautious.

Avoid driving in high-volume traffic that moves fast. This can make you uncomfortable. So, avoid it until you have enough experience under supervision. You can then gradually introduce more challenging driving situations like merging, driving on highways, and driving in city traffic.

Prepare for bad weather.

It’s better to avoid driving in poor weather conditions, even if you feel comfortable driving on dry pavement. Start off simple and practice as much as possible under supervision before you try it yourself.

Cell phones should only be used in an emergency on the road.

Talking on the cell phone while driving is one of the worst habits you can develop. Only keep a mobile phone in your car for emergencies. You should pull over safely to the side of the road if you need to use your cell phone.

Driving a vehicle that is safe will help you to avoid car accidents in Knoxville TN. When you’re thinking about buying your own vehicle, choose one that has high safety ratings. Avoid small cars or trucks. To help you evaluate the safety rating for a car or truck, check out consumer reports and federal statistics. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, the people who perform crash tests, offers useful vehicle and safety test advice.

Call Miller Brothers Transmission Auto Repair and Body Shop now if you’re looking for a reputable auto repair shop to deal with your car problems.

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Click this link for more information.

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 CountyCorrytonFountain CityHalls CrossroadsPowell and Knoxville

Monday, April 24, 2023

Signs Of Auto Electrical Problems



Auto electric issues can frustrate drivers, especially if the battery does not seem to be at fault. The battery is the most likely culprit in older cars. Newer cars have an extensive and complex electrical system. The complexity of automotive technology makes it more likely that they will fail. While the majority of drivers find driving to be more comfortable and safe, this is not true for all. Modern cars are more dependent on their electrical system than older vehicles. When the alternator or battery fails, drivers can experience many problems.

Common Symptoms for Auto Electrical Issues

Electrical problems are easy to misdiagnose in any car. Here are some common electrical symptoms to look out for.

The engine doesn’t start correctly

To start the car, it needs electrical power. The battery ignites the fuel mixture inside the engine with a spark. A bad battery could be the cause of an engine that won’t start. It could be an alternator problem or something else.

A clicking sound is the most common indication of electrical problems within a vehicle. The clicking indicates that the electrical system of the car is not able to supply enough current for the engine to start. This usually means that the battery in the car has lost its charge, or it is nearing the end of its life. This could indicate a problem with the alternator or even the starter.

The car may make grinding noises when it starts up. This could be a problem with the starter, or the flywheel ring gear.

Electrical problems are more common in vehicles with high mileage. If the car seems to be having electrical issues on startup, you should have it checked by a qualified auto mechanic.

auto-electrical-issues-300x217.jpgBattery Problems

The obvious problem is a dead or discharged battery. Do not just replace the battery in your vehicle without checking for other electrical problems. Batteries last for about five years. It may be time to replace it. Alternator problems could also be the cause.

Make sure the cables are connected correctly and check for corrosion. Consider taking the battery to a local auto repair shop for testing. If the auto repair shop determines that the battery is working properly, then the problem may lie elsewhere in the electrical system of the car. Next, check the alternator as well as other areas that are commonly problematic for your vehicle.

Headlights and other lights are not working properly

Lights are essential for the safe operation and maintenance of your car. Turn signals, headlights, and brake lights help drivers communicate and stay safe on the roads. Interior lights help drivers find things at night and in low-light conditions.

Drivers may notice their lights dimming if the electrical system of the vehicle is malfunctioning. Dimming lights are usually caused by low voltage in the system or a battery charging problem. But loose wires or an alternator belt that is malfunctioning could also be the cause.

Corrosion is another problem that can cause light problems in a vehicle. The electrical system of your car can be tested with a voltmeter by most reputable auto repair shops in Knoxville TN.

Blown Fuses

Fuse boxes prevent overvoltage and short circuits. Fuse boxes are designed to prevent overcurrent and short-circuiting of electrical components. Fuse blows for a variety of reasons. If the car’s fuses keep blowing, it could be a sign that the vehicle is experiencing electrical problems. A professional mechanic should be consulted if a fuse has to be replaced more than once within a short period of time. A short-circuit, or an electrical fault can cause further damage to your vehicle if you leave it unattended.

auto-repair-300x225.jpg

Burning Plastic Smell

Stop driving immediately if the car displays any of these electrical symptoms and emits a burning plastic smell or an electrical insulation burning smell. Tow the vehicle to an auto shop. If you continue to drive the vehicle, it will likely cause further damage. It could also result in injury if the vehicle stops working completely.

Diagnose electrical problems in cars

It can be difficult to diagnose electrical issues in modern cars. The car will need to be checked by a qualified technician. However, there are some things you can do to try to diagnose the problem before the inspection. Each circuit of the car must have a continuous power supply. Most electrical devices require a minimum voltage in order to function correctly.

Safety First

There is little danger of getting shocked when inspecting the electric system unless the car has a hybrid battery with high voltage. Ensure that the battery has been disconnected completely before working on the vehicle. If the driver doesn’t know the vehicle’s electrical system, they run the risk of doing more damage.

Avoid direct contact with the wiring and battery if the car is a hybrid to prevent shock. If the electrical problems are serious, you may also risk a fire when working to fix them.

What Can We Do to Help You?

Our combined experience in the automotive industry spans decades. We offer free estimates and are committed to providing quality customer service. We are concerned about the safety of our customers and understand how frustrating car problems can be. Bring your family car to our shop if it is experiencing electrical problems. We use the most advanced scanning technology, and voltmeters, and have highly trained car technicians.

Call Miller Brothers Transmission Auto Repair and Body Shop today to schedule an appointment and let our expert technicians deal with your car problems.

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 CountyCorrytonFountain CityHalls CrossroadsPowell and Knoxville

Friday, April 21, 2023

How to Choose the Best Auto Body Repair Shop After an Accident



Miller Brothers Auto Repair is a Geico approved auto collision shop in Knoxville TN.

auto-body-shop-1-3-300x200.jpgA car accident can be a frightening experience, and the aftermath is stressful. What happens if your car is damaged? You’ll have to file an insurance claim. If your vehicle is damaged, you will need to file an insurance claim. But what happens next? You should bring your vehicle to an auto body shop.

Getting the post-accident repair done doesn’t need to be difficult. You have two main options. You can choose an auto body shop on the list of shops approved by your insurance company. You can also find your own auto body shop and have them handle the repairs.

Remember that the same technology that makes your car easier to drive can also complicate repairs. Car repairs could become more costly. Consider the following factors when making your decision.

Why use an insurance company-recommended auto body shop?

The benefits of using a body shop recommended by your insurance company are numerous. Your insurance company will repair your car after an accident. However, the best option depends on your situation.

Save Time and Money

You can save time and money by choosing an auto repair shop approved by your insurer. You don’t need to find the shop, wait for an inspection, or get an estimate. The shop has been approved by your insurance company. Working with a shop that is recommended can help you return your vehicle sooner because you will save time.

Reduce Paperwork

Working with an approved repair shop will save you time and the headache of completing paperwork for your insurance company. In most cases, the insurance company will require that their approved shops guarantee their work if there are any problems with the repair down the line, as long as the car is owned by the customer. If you select your own shop you will be responsible for any future problems.

Savings Potential

If you choose an auto repair shop in Knoxville TN that is recommended by your insurer, you may be eligible for a discount on your deductible – the amount you have to pay yourself out of pocket. These discounts are helpful when you’re dealing with the stress that comes from an accident and its repairs. The option to use an approved shop can help you avoid extra worries at a time when things are already stressful.

The shop should give you an estimate of whether they are an approved shop. If you choose a body shop recommended by your insurer, they will work directly with them to cover any extra costs that may arise during repairs. You won’t need to pay for any additional costs that might arise, and you can wait until your insurance company reimburses you.

auto-body-shop-3-300x200.jpgRent a Car Insurance

You may need to find alternative transportation while your car is being repaired. Rental car coverage is included in some insurance policies. Your insurance company will often work with you to extend the rental agreement if you choose a repair shop that is approved and repairs take longer than expected due to hidden damage. Find out what your insurance covers for rental cars while they are being repaired.

Why go to another auto body repair shop?

There are many benefits to choosing an auto repair shop that is approved by your insurer. However, for some car owners, it may be more beneficial to look at other auto repair shops.

Prior Relationships

You may, for example, have a relationship with a shop where you’ve been working for many years. If the technician who works at your auto repair shop knows your car and its history, he or she may be able to better determine the damage that your vehicle suffered in an accident.

There are no approved shops near you

It’s also a good idea to open your own shop if there isn’t one in your area. The benefits of an approved shop may not be worth it if you have to travel a distance to reach them. If you find a shop that can fix your car for less than the approved shops by your insurance company, it may be worth going to your own shop.

You are not on your own if you choose to use a shop for repairs that aren’t recommended by your insurer. You can still work with your insurance company to handle and pay for damages caused to your vehicle. The insurance company will still work with you to resolve your claim, but they won’t do it directly.

auto-body-shop-300x225.jpgAsk the Right Questions

It’s important that you make a careful choice, whether it is an auto repair shop recommended by your insurer or one you choose yourself. You may want to get an estimate from an independent mechanic or shop to help you decide.

Asking questions to your insurance company as well as the auto repair shop you are considering will help you ensure your vehicle’s repairs are done correctly and efficiently.

Here are some questions to ask your insurance representative:

  • What information is needed to make a claim and what do I need?
  • What and how much coverage is there?
  • How long can I rent a car with my insurance policy?
  • What should I do next?
  • How long will it take to repair my car?
  • Which shops are approved by my insurance company in my area?

Asking the following questions when evaluating an auto repair shop is a good way to evaluate it.

  • Are your technicians certified?
  • Are you using original manufacturer replacement parts or not?
  • Do you provide a warranty for repairs?

Your estimate is higher/lower than the other shop. Why? You only need one estimate to determine the damages. However, if there are several estimates and they differ greatly, you should ask this question.

Check the List of Approved Products

Check your insurance company’s list of approved shops to see if the shop you use is on it. You can still use your favorite body shop while also getting the benefits that come with using an approved shop by your insurance company.

Your insurance company may have approved the businesses listed on their list. However, this does not mean that they are all right for you. Ask questions before using an auto body shop in Knoxville TN that is on an approved list to ensure you are comfortable with the shop’s repairs and feel informed about it. Ask your insurance company questions or do some research online about the auto body shop.

Call Miller Brothers Transmission Auto Repair and Body Shop now and let our mechanics help you with your car problems.

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 CountyCorrytonFountain CityHalls CrossroadsPowell and Knoxville

Tuesday, April 18, 2023

Signs The Auto Body Shop Did Their Job Correctly



You last saw your car as a twisted wreck being towed from the accident scene. It’s been weeks since the accident and now the car is in the parking lot of an auto body shop. You just have to write a check, and your car will be back in your possession. How can you be sure that the car has been repaired correctly under the surface?

The first step to repairing your car correctly is selecting a reputable shop. You should inspect the work done before driving away. Here are some tips and tricks from seasoned body shop professionals to help you better understand what you should be looking for.

Auto Body Shop Tips

It is important to have a clear understanding from the get-go.

When you drop off your car, the process begins. Clarify what the shop will fix and how they will repair it. All correspondence should be in writing. You can also ask about the warranty offered by the shop. Review the documentation to ensure that the repair was done correctly.

Reputable repair facilities will walk you through the entire process. The best shops will touch up any bolts that were scratched under the hood during the auto repair.

A Clean Car is a Must

Appearances are important. Your car should be clean and vacuumed when you pick it up. The car should be free of dirt and dust, with no old items in the trunk.

Returning a clean vehicle to a client can be difficult. Body shops are the filthiest on Earth because of all the dust that comes from sanding.

auto-body-shop-2-1-300x214.jpgCloser inspection

Look closely at the repaired area if the general appearance of the car is satisfactory. Start by looking for gaps between the body panels. The gaps should be uneven if they are. This is a sign that the panels have not been aligned properly. The owners should ensure that the doors are aligned properly and open and close correctly.

It can be hard for the body shop to fix a car that has extensive damage on the front end. You can spot a problem by examining the distance between the tire and the fender. It’s a sign that something was not fixed correctly if it is wider on one side than the other. Turn on the headlights and check that the beams of light are aligned.

The rack is used by the body shop to straighten the frame of a vehicle that has been hit on the front. It is used by the workers to straighten the frame rails. You can see the “butcher marks”, which are caused by poor repairs, under the car.

Visual auto inspections may be challenging for the average consumer. The owner should look at the printouts of the frame specifications. After the repairs, a good body shop should measure the area that was damaged and measure it again. After the repair, the frame specs should match what they were prior to the accident. A printout of the frame specs is a great reference to ensure that everything has been done correctly. You can ask for a second opinion if you’re concerned about a major repair not being done properly and you want to have someone else look at it.

auto-body-work-300x225.jpgPaint jobs: Consistency and matching colors

Paint matching is one of the hardest jobs to do in an auto body shop in Knoxville TN. You can match the color to 95 percent by simply entering the paint codes from the factory. The remaining 5 percent must be handled by auto professionals.

The majority of factory paint finishes have an orange peel texture, to a lesser or greater degree. It doesn’t matter if you like the effect, but most factory paints have it. Body shops can find it difficult to replicate.

You can arrange to pick up the car during the day. Look at the car under the sun to ensure that the paint color and finish match the original. If the shop has repainted multiple panels, you can also check the color consistency along the side. Finally, check the paint for any runs or imperfections like hairs or dirt specks.

Fixing it Right isn’t Always Possible

Sometimes, the problem may not appear until months after the car repair. Uneven wear on the front tires is a common problem. This could indicate that the suspension on the front has not been repaired or straightened correctly. Bring your receipt and paperwork to the shop, and show the manager how the tires are worn. The shop should be able to fix the problem as per the warranty.

Call Miller Brothers Transmission Auto Repair and Body Shop now if you’re looking for a reputable auto repair and body 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 CountyCorrytonFountain CityHalls CrossroadsPowell and Knoxville