Last updated 4 days ago
Changing the oil is one of the most basic car maintenance items that every driver learns about, but it might surprise you to learn just how many types of car oil are out there. Most drivers simply assume that one bottle of oil isn’t different from the next as long as it has the same oil ratings, but this couldn’t be farther from the truth. Here’s a closer look at the different types of motor oil and how they can help your car in Arizona:
Conventional Oil
Conventional oil will perform fine under the conditions indicated by American Petroleum Institute ratings on the bottle, but they do not offer optimal lubricity under heavy loads or in high-performance engines. If you have a high-performance engine, you'll want to consider using synthetic oil instead.
Synthetic Oil
Synthetic oil is arguably the best quality oil in terms of long-term performance and resistance to wear. Full synthetic oil is typically only used in high-performance engines, but there are also synthetic blends that offer some of the high-load protection of full synthetics at a significantly reduced cost.
High-Mileage Oil
As vehicles age and accumulate mileage, internal parts and seals become more susceptible to wear, even with regular auto maintenance. High-mileage oils are formulated with more anti-wear additives and with conditioners to help maintain the integrity of rubber seals. These qualities are generally are generally more advantageous than the benefits of full synthetic oil.
Keep your car in great condition with Greulich’s Automotive Service & Collision. Our auto repair centers throughout Phoenix and Tucson are recognized by AAA and the Better Business Bureau. Plus we guarantte your complete satisfaction. We even provide shuttle services to help you keep your life on track during major auto repairs! Just visit us online to read our customer reviews and call (480) 389-2358 to schedule a service appointment.
Last updated 14 days ago
Your system requires a full discharge every two years and a recharge and top up every year.I'm not getting enough cold air, what's wrong?
Not enough cool air, or air that is warmer than usual, is generally caused by:
-
Low refrigerant
-
Loose drive belt
-
Slipping compressor clutch
-
Partially clogged valves or filters
-
Slow leaks in components or hoses
-
Clogs in the evaporator or condenser
Why did my air conditioning suddenly stop working?
The most common reasons why an air conditioning system will stop working include:
-
Broken or very loose drive belt
-
Blown fuses
-
Broken compressor or compressor clutch
-
Leaks in components, seals or hoses
-
Defects or clogs in the expansion valve, orifice tube, accumulator, receiver-drier, or hoses
If you are asking yourself either of these questions, it's time to have your vehicles air conditioning system checked. Finding a solution that corrects the problem now, will help you save on repairs and maintenance down the road. For more information or to schedule your next appointment give us a call at (480) 389-2358!
Last updated 15 days ago
Temperatures are rising, and it won’t be long before they regularly exceed 100 degrees. Arizona summers can be particularly harsh on your car, and without preventative maintenance you could end up stranded. Stay cool this summer and save money on car maintenance with these tips:
Tires
If you’ve every stepped outside while barefoot, then you’re already well aware how hot the roadways can get in summer. These high temperatures can damage your tires quickly without proper maintenance. Keep your tires aligned to reduce wear and check the pressure during the coolest part of the day (early mornings or late evenings).
Air Conditioner
Fortunately, any signs of potential A/C trouble are fairly apparent. If your vents give off a musty odor every time you turn them on, consider having your ducts vacuumed. If your system isn’t blowing enough cool air, it may need a recharge. And if it isn’t blowing any air at all or is making strange noises, the blower or compressor may be damaged.
Fluids
Fluids prevent your car from overheating and provide moving parts with lubrication. The oil, coolant, brake, and windshield wiper fluids can all be checked from under the hood, as can the transmission fluid in some models. Learn how to check fluid levels and fluid quality so that you can bring your vehicle in for early service.
Electronics
Even if all of the mechanical parts are running fine, a blown fuse or shorted wire can still cause sudden failure in the headlights, taillights, air conditioner, radio, or other major component. Invest in an inexpensive box of spare fuses for the road.
These are only a few of the most common maintenance items to keep your car safe and cool on the road. For professional AAA-approved auto repairs in Arizona, visit Greulich’s Automotive. With 11 locations throughout the Valley and Tucson, we’re always nearby to lend a helping hand. Call (480) 389-2358 or visit us online for details about our latest auto maintenance specials.
Last updated 22 days ago
Odds are your car will run fine with any type of oil so long as your find the appropriate rating, but not all types of motor oil offer the same long-term performance. Conventional car oil is refined from crude oil and is generally the cheapest type of oil available, but synthetic oils are further modified with additional additives to provide better performance at a slightly higher cost.
There’s no question that synthetic oils offer better performance, but is the price premium worth it for your vehicle? It mostly depends on the vehicle; high-performance sports cars and light trucks which tow heavy loads can benefit from the additional protection, but a fuel sipping compact or an old beater may not necessarily need anything beyond regular oil changes. Synthetic blends also offer some of the high-performance protection of full synthetics at a lower cost.
No matter what make or model you drive, Greulich’s Automotive Service & Collision is here to help you stay on the road with reliable auto maintenance throughout Arizona. Call (480) 389-2358 today to learn more about our current auto service specials.
