The buzz around ‘extended oil change intervals’ for passenger cars and SUVs is everywhere. Most vehicle manufacturers are recommending longer oil change intervals. Oil companies are offering oils that they promote as having extended life. And motorists, pressured by the challenges of a tight economy and a hectic lifestyle, like the prospect of fewer trips to get their car’s oil changed. There are a few issues with extended oil change intervals. One is the quality of product used. The oil filter needs to have the require a capacity and efficiency to stand up against the impact of dirt, dust and engine contaminants over an extended period of time. As an owner that wants to protect your engine, know that not all oil filters are equal and a discounted oil change will probably be using a less quality filter that just can not stand up. 1. Filter Capacity The term ‘capacity,’ when used in reference to an oil filter, does not mean the amount ... read more

In our high altitude mountain environment, your car , SUV and truck brakes take a beating. Driving in dusty conditions, freezing temperatures, and on steep grades takes a toll on all brake components. All these severe environmental conditions individually are tough on a vehicle. Now put them all together on a mountain road and you have some real challenges for your braking system. Brake pad wear, rotor warping, squeaks and grinding noises are all the result of every day braking in our severe environment. So when it’s time to replace any of these components, it’s important to visit a shop that now only knows brakes, but will install a quality product that will hold up to these severe conditions. For example, a brake pad sold for a Honda Civic in Sacramento will not be beefy enough for a heavier SUV or truck in Truckee. The bottom line is, if you choose an economy brake job, you will receive an economy product which will wear easily to a daily commute on Northwoods Bo ... read more

When Should I Replace My Wiper Blades? Well, many Truckee drivers will wait until they fail. The problem with that is that you find out they have failed when you actually need them most – a little too late. Wiper blades are really a critical safety system for travelers to Truckee and Lake Tahoe and mountain residents. As 90% of driving decisions are based on what we see, if you can’t see well because your wipers can’t clear your windshield, your ability to drive safely is significantly impaired. The simple answer to when windshield wiper blades should be replaced is when they are not working well. But replacing them before they go bad and prior to a first big storm is wise. For some Truckee and Lake Tahoe car owners, once a year may be enough. For others – those who drive a lot, whose wipers are exposed to a lot of sun, or use their wipers more – replacing the blades a couple of times a year might be in order. There are several types ... read more

Used Car Buyer or Seller should get InspectionTruckee auto owners sell their cars, trucks and SUV’s for a lot of different reasons. Maybe they just want something new or maybe they’re selling that Subaru because it has a problem or two. So how do you know what you’re getting into when you buy a used car in Truckee, California? And if you’re the seller, how do you get top dollar for your four-wheel-drive (4WD) truck or car? Whether you’re buying or selling, a “buyers Inspection” from Quality Automotive Servicing will make the transaction run smoother.Buyer Beware : As the buyer, you want to know the true condition of the vehicle you are about the purchase. Having a used car “buyer’s inspection” shows the true cost of purchasing the vehicle. That is, the price plus whatever repairs or maintenance is due. Even if the vehicle has no record ... read more

Most Truckee car and truck owners come to their knowledgeable Quality Automotive Servicing service advisor with specific services in mind and an idea of how much they’ll be spending. But how should you react when additional and unexpected items are uncovered that require attention? Every vehicle repair or maintenance customer at Quality Automotive Servicing receives a Red Check Inspection at no additional cost. This inspection is performed to assist the customer in planning future service and sometimes will uncover an issue that needs to be addressed immediately. It is not uncommon for customers to suspect that a shop is just adding on unnecessarily to a work order. At Quality Automotive Servicing be assured this is not the case. Our mission is to be Your Trusted Local Auto Care and in order to accomplish this, we inspect the vehicle and give an honest recommendation of what services are needed immediately and in the future. Recommendations are based on the m ... read more