Technical Service Bulletins (TSB) by Kevin Schappell

Technical Service Bulletins (TSB) by Kevin Schappell

Smart home mechanics use all the information available to diagnose problems with their vehicle. Below you will find the two most valuable sources of data available today. Most people know nothing about TSBs, but they should. Both of these excellent resources are available online from websites like AllData.com
Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs):
TSBs are issued by vehicle manufacturers to help automotive technicians diagnose and repair problems reported by consumers and repair shops. It's amazing how many fixes are found in these bulletins that can't be found anywhere else. Car manufacturers issue thousands of bulletins every year.
TSBs contain up-to-date factory fixes for difficult to diagnose problems such as rough idles, intermittent stalls, hard starts, and all kinds of "shakes", "rattles" and "clunks" that can sometimes drive you nuts. TSBs describe service procedures that may improve performance, reduce future breakdowns, or show a factory authorized modification for your vehicle.
This information can be valuable to the home mechanic when trying to troubleshoot problems with his or her car. Most times the manufacturer gives detailed instructions on how to fix the problem with part numbers included. You can choose to fix it yourself or take it to your mechanic and alert him to the TSB.
Recall Notices:
Automobile manufacturers issue Official Safety Recall Notices to inform vehicle owners of car defects that have come to the manufacturer's attention. Recalls also suggest improvements that can be made to improve the safety of a particular vehicle. Oftentimes your car dealer can perform this recall work for free. Knowing what recall notices have been issued on your vehicle helps you keep your vehicle in the best and safest working order. The best way to keep your family safe is to check for recalls issued for your vehicle every 1 - 3 months. Not all recalls are serious enough to warrant the manufacturer to contact owners, so it's up to you to check for yourself.

About the Author
Kevin Schappell maintains http://www.carbuyersclub.com where he gives advice on buying, selling, insurance, and financing. A mechanical engineer and car guy, Kevin has decided to spend his online time helping others learn about automobiles. To learn more about how your car works, Kevin has createdhttp://www.mycarwizard.com

Winter Car Care by Kevin Schappell

Winter Car Care by Kevin Schappell

As the weather turns colder, it is time to think about your car for a second. A little preparation can go a long way to making your winter travels a lot safer. Here is a checklist to get you started.

1.Check the antifreeze. The freezing point can be checked with a simple tool available at any auto parts store. Make sure you check the antifreeze when it's cool. Opening a hot radiator can be a dangerous thing.
2.Check the air pressure in your tires. As the air gets cooler pressure drops in your tires. Maintaining your tire pressures will reward you with higher gas mileage and longer tire life.
3.Make sure you have the following items in your car.
- Ice Scraper
- Salt or sand for traction
- Blanket in case you are stranded and need to keep warm
- Good first aid kit (not just for winter)
- Road flares
4.Check all belts and hoses. As the temperature drops rubber tends to stiffen and break allot easier. Make sure all your rubber hoses and belts are in tip-top shape.
5.Treat your gas tank to a can of gas line antifreeze before the cold weather strikes. The additive will remove any water in the system and prevent your fuel lines from freezing.
6.Check your tires for wear. Make sure you have plenty of tread left to get you through the snow. Nothing is worse than 3" of snow and bald tires.

About the Author
Kevin Schappell maintains http://www.carbuyersclub.com where he gives advice on buying, selling, insurance, and financing. A mechanical engineer and car guy, Kevin has decided to spend his online time helping others learn about automobiles. To learn more about how your car works, Kevin has createdhttp://www.mycarwizard.com