What’s this light on my dash mean? 

A vehicle winter survival kit is essential if traveling in the mountains in winter.When driving in poor weather, chances are at some point you will become stuck on the road due to    Traffic accidents - Road closures - Car troubles - It's more than inconvenient to be stranded on the road, it's scary and dangerous. Being prepared can make this experience a little more bearable and a lot safer for you and your passengers. Here is what we advise you carry.  Small bag/bucket of sand, gravel or kitty litter -  Small shovel -  Extra waterproof mittens, gloves, hats, boots and jacket -  Reflective vest (up to four) -  Flashlight (fresh batteries) -  Road flares -  Whistle -  Blankets -  First Aid Kit -  Jumper cables -  Temperature rated washer fluid -  Tow straps and kn ... read more

Memorial Day marks the start of summer travel season. Before you start packing, start preparing with an "Peace of Mind" inspection at QAS.    Check out Ruth and Roxy's experience that underscores the need for a thorough pre-trip inspection of vital vehicle systems.    Ruth & Roxy in Trouble on Donner Summit Ruth along  with her husband were traveling cross-country towing Ruth's beloved horse, Roxy. With over 20,000 pounds of truck, trailer and horse, the Ford F350 dashboard warning lights lit up as they approached Donner Summit. They were able to safely pull over and have the truck towed to QAS while Roxy and trailer were towed to a local stable. What happened next will impress upon all travelers the need for a pre-trip inspection of the vehicle systems.    Peace of Mind Inspection Receive a professional inspection at no cost with any service or repair. You get a report detailing vital info ... read more

Driveline inspections and maintenance is an essential part of keeping your mountain car, truck, SUV or van running strong and keeping your lifestyle moving forward.  When driveline maintenance is overlooked, not only is it costly to repair but it will dangerous if you lose control of the vehicle. Simply put, the driveline transfers the power of the transmission to rotate the wheels. If any component is not lubricated with fresh fluids, vital components become worn, damaged or broken and you’ve got some serious troubles taking place. When should I do this maintenance? Mountain vehicles drive in 4WD, negotiate steep mountain roads and often carry more weight – work equipment, passengers or towing trailers. A mountain vehicle is taxed more than vehicles driven off the mountain. To avoid expensive damage don’t ignore the importance of driveline service.  At Quality Automotive Servicing we follow the “severe driving&rdqu ... read more

At German Import Garage and Quality Automotive Servicing in Truckee, CA, we often field inquiries about our diagnostic testing fee. Our rationale is simple: Diagnostic testing and service is about giving our customers accurate information and answers to their vehicle questions so their vehicle is fixed right the first time.      Why can’t QAS or GIG take a diagnosis from another shop? To provide a comprehensive warranty on work performed, we need to be assured the right work is being done. Accepting another shop's diagnosis risks an incomplete or inaccurate assessment resulting in an incomplete or inaccurate repair. I have the trouble code, can you just do the repair it indicates? A trouble code is just a starting point that directs a technician. A qualified technician needs to delve deeper and discover the intricacies of the trouble. With expertise, online technical resources, a ... read more