Wishing you a safe and driver-friendly holiday out on the road. Take your time, encourage kindness and enjoy the winter weather.

When you are looking for interesting information about cars, check out our blog! We strive to entertain and educate Truckee drivers about any and all auto repair related topics, and if you have any other questions, we encourage you to ask the auto mechanics at Quality Automotive Servicing.

Tag Archives: inspection

Don't ignore this dashboard light, TPMS.

Don't ignore this dashboard light, TPMS.

What’s this light on my dash mean? 

If you’ve seen this light it's the TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System) light. But don’t worry—you’re not alone. This safety feature monitors the air pressure in your tires, ensuring they’re at optimal levels for safe driving. Often shaped like a horseshoe with an exclamation point inside, the TPMS light is one of the easier dashboard warnings to address. Here’s how to manage it, why it comes on, and when you might need professional assistance.   Why Does the TPMS Light Come On? As the seasons change, fluctuating temperatures can cause your tire pressure to drop. For every 10-degree decrease in temperature, your tires can lose around 1 PSI (pound per square inch) of pressure. In fall and winter, this can lead to low-pressure readings that activate the TPMS warning. If your tires drop below the
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Winter Won't Wait. Be Prepared with a Winter Survival Kit

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

What Could Go Wrong?

What Could Go Wrong?

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

Drive With Confidence - The Importance of Digital Vehicle Inspections

Ensure Safe Travels: The Importance of a Digital Vehicle Inspection (DVI) with Every Service As the harsh driving conditions of Truckee's winter give way to the promise of summer adventures, it's crucial that your vehicle is ready to hit the road. One often overlooked but essential aspect of car maintenance is the Digital Vehicle Inspection (DVI) conducted alongside routine services like oil changes or smog checks. A DVI offers invaluable insights into your vehicle's condition, providing you with peace of mind and potentially saving you from unexpected breakdowns or repair bills. For customers of Quality Automotive Servicing, it's an opportunity to have experts scrutinize your vehicle while it's on the rack, offering a comprehensive evaluation of its various systems. As summer travel season approaches, a DVI becomes even more critical. Discovering a repair issue before embarking on a long journey can prevent an inconvenient roadside breakdown and ensure a smooth ... read more

Why to Not Buy the Pre-Purchased Maintenance Plan When Buying a New Car

Thinking about whether to invest in that pre-purchase maintenance plan when you buy a new car from the dealership? Before you sign on the dotted line, let's delve into what you might not see at first glance. Hidden Costs: While the dealership may promise a comprehensive maintenance plan, it's essential to know the quality of what you’re getting. Some dealerships might skimp by using lower-quality parts or opting for cheaper fluid alternatives to maximize profits. Additionally, inexperienced technicians used for these services could lead to catastrophic mistakes, like a recent situation that a  friend experienced when her oil drain plug was mis-threaded  resulting in a blown engine in the middle of Nevada. Inconsistent Service: Despite assurances, dealerships might not always follow through on the promised services. Instances of dealerships skipping recommended maintenance items, which you've paid for, have ... read more