Baltimore Auto Repair

           Let's talk about windshield wiper blades. It's something we really don't think about unless it's raining, then forget about when the rain stops. We should think about wiper blades as one part of the safety systems on our vehicles. Wiper blades help us see the same as glasses or contacts help us see with our eyes. When they are worn they smear the rain across our windshield creating streaks. New wiper blades and a clean windshield can make all the difference driving in the rain. Remember wiper blades live on the outside of the vehicle exposed to the hot sun in the summer and cold in the winter. Replacing your wiper blades in the spring and the fall will help with driving conditions year round. At Framerite Auto Repair we stock many sizes so if the need arises we can take care of you right away

Do you know if your tires will get you through the 6-12 inches of snow in the immediate forecast? If you don't know the answer you better find out. Winter weather is starting early early and slippery conditions can appear without warning. If your tires tread is too thin slipping and sliding is in your forecast. Check your tread depth with a quarter. If you can't see the top of George's head you should be alright. Personally I would not want to see his hairline on top of his head. You can also look between the tread bars for the wear indicator. The tread wear indicator is a small rubber bar that if near even with the remaining tread lets you know your tires need to be replaced. If you have any questions stop by for a quick inspection and we will show you what to look for. Here at Framerite Auto Repair we can take care of you and your vehicle to keep you safe for whatever Old Man Winter brings

This was a blog post from a while ago but it bears reposting, especially while there is a rebate on Hankook tires. There are several ways to determine if you need new tires. One way is to insert a quarter upside down into the tire's tread. If you can see the top of Ole George's head then your tread is measuring 4/32 and the tire needs to be replaced. Another sign that you need new tires is the presence of grooves or cracks in the sidewall. Other indicators are blisters and bulges because they can quickly become the source of a dangerous blowout. In addition, feeling too much vibration when driving can be a sign of several issues. Your tires may need balancing or you may need an alignment. The vibration can actually be a sign of a problem with your tire. If you have any questions concerning your tires, or any other vehicle repair or maintenance issue, give us a call and our certified mechanics will be happy to answer your questions and advise you. #newtires #tiresnearme #tires ... read more

Why do I see a puddle of water under my car? We get this question often when the weather turns hot and humid. What you actually see is condensation from the air conditioner dripping on the ground. The air conditioner is in reality removing the heat from the air and dispersing it at the condenser that sits in front of the radiator. A byproduct of a properly working air conditioning unit is the water you see on the ground which should be clear. If there is any color to the liquid it is probably something else leaking and should be diagnosed. If you have any concerns with your air conditioner our certified technicians can diagnose your problem to keep you cool while driving in the summer heat! 

What is your engine breathing? Better yet, what are you breathing? You and your engine need clean air to survive. When the filters in your vehicle become contaminated with dirt and debris they need to be replaced. As in the accompanying pictures you can see that with neglect, the filters become clogged and do not allow sufficient airflow. Restricted airflow to the engine or the passenger cabin can can cause running problems for the engine and comfort problems for the people in the vehicle. During a routine oil change our technicians inspect the engine air filter as it is much more accessible than the cabin filter. If we find a contaminated engine air filter we generally recommend both. Something as simple as an air filter can make a big difference in engine performance and in comfort for the vehicle occupants. Replace your filters so you and your engine can breathe easier

We had a Acura TL in to check out for a subframe needing to be welded. What we found was the left front lower control arm forward bushing had separated from the rubber allowing the control arm to rub against the subframe. Unfortunately the metal to metal contact has occured for so long the subframe area is now paper thin. The damage has been done, the subframe now requires replacement. If the bushing separation had been spotted years ago the costs would have been minimal but now it will take one or two thousand dollars to repair. Having your vehicle serviced by a certified technician may cost a little more in the short run but could save you a lot in the long run. https://studio.youtube.com/#/video/tC5lLXFWfP0

Are you planning a road trip for the Memorial Day Weekend? Have you thought about making sure that your car is ready to go when you are? Your car should be inspected before taking a trip to ensure that you arrive safely and without unexpected delays and bills. Generally speaking all your fluids should be inspected and topped off, your tires should be checked for condition and the correct amount of air pressure, and your battery should be checked as well. One tip is to also check the condition and the amount of air pressure in your spare. They are often neglected but are very important if the need arises. Your air filter should be changed if not done recently. Your oil level should at least be checked and have your oil and filter changed, if due. Check all your lights and wipers to be sure they are working properly. Your brakes should be checked, as well as your suspension parts. Let's not forget your air conditioner; you definitely want to be cool while traveling. This rain is goi ... read more

While April is National Car Care Month we are reminded of something that we can take for granted. We assume that our car is going to start AND take us from point A to point B when we want it to. In order for that to be the case, we need to take some maintenance and preventative actions, much like we do with our bodies. In general your oil levels need to be checked or changed if due and your hoses, brakes, battery and exhaust system should be inspected. Below is a chart that shows some general guidelines to follow in maintaining your vehicle. You should always check the factory recommended maintenance for your specific vehicle. As always, Framerite and our experienced mechanics are here to help

How much is a tune-up? We get calls asking this very question several times a week. A tune-up is actually a misnomer with the vehicles on the road today. In reality, the question really should be about when the vehicle manufacturer recommends replacing filters (air and fuel), spark plugs and wires. If the vehicle is exhibiting poor performance, it should be properly diagnosed to find the problem, not just replacing parts in the hope they will correct the problem. Regular vehicle checkups and maintenance will help you keep your vehicle safe and reliable. At Framerite Auto Repair,our mechanics perform Digital Vehicle Inspections that can be emailed or sent by text to you so that you can see exactly what the technician sees. Let us show you how we use the latest technology with a personal touch

Does your vehicle not handle like it used to? Are your tires wearing too quickly? Worn shocks and struts could be the cause. They are what keeps your tires on the road and allows you to safely steer your car in turns and over bumps. If they are worn your car can have excessive bounce, premature tire wear and an overall poor ride quality. If you suspect that you have an issue contact our qualified technicians and we will be glad to advise you. We are offering a rebate, up to $100, on a prepaid Visa card, on shocks and struts. Call for details, offer valid March 1-April 30, 2018. http://bit.ly/2xXDjWlhttp://frameriteautomotiveservice.mynapasa.com/2018/01/27/your-vehicle-s-suspension-in-baltimore-md