mcneilsautocare

Hal Wing Memorial Ride

Wed, 02 Oct 2024 12:50:11 GMT

Hal Wing Memorial Ride

Dear McNeil's,

The 4th annual Hal Wing – Honoring Heroes Foundation Memorial Ride was a successful event! You can check out images of the ride on the Legends Motorcycle Facebook page. We will also be creating a video of this year’s event and we plan on posting that on our Facebook page as well.
With the help of our sponsors we were able to make the Silent Auction and Raffle exciting and productive. As you know all proceeds of the event are donated to the Honoring Heroes Foundation, which provides financial assistance and academic scholarships for the families of Utah law enforcement officers.
We would like to thank you and your company for the sponsorship provided to support the Hal Wing – Honoring Heroes Foundation ride. The ride could not be successful without the generous support of our caring community. Thank you all for your thoughtfulness, generosity, and continued support to the Honoring Heroes Foundation.
The donated items not only help us produce a major portion of the proceeds, they also help us attract participants who might not otherwise attend the event. We greatly appreciate your generosity and cannot thank you enough.
Next year’s ride will be held on July 15th 2017. We look forward to planning next year’s event to be bigger and better. We hope to have your company be a part of its success next year as well.
Again, thank you for your donation and your support.

Sincerely,

The Hal Wing – Honoring Heroes Foundation Team

Zambia’s Scholarship Fund

Wed, 02 Oct 2024 12:50:09 GMT

Zambia’s Scholarship Fund

To Whom It May Concern:

In February of 2013, I was to go to Zambia, Africa on behalf of the Zambia Scholarship Fund (ZSF) to purchase a vehicle. I am not a mechanic and was warned that everyone in Africa would try and take advantage of me in the purchase of a vehicle. We advertised for a mechanic to go on this charitable mission even to the extent of me writing and submitting an article to the Deseret News about the ZSF and the trip. The newspaper called me and interviewed me and published the article that included a portion that the ZSF was looking for a good mechanic to go on the trip with me--no response. I called Tad Draper, a good friend who was a prior law partner of mine. I knew he was my last hope. "Tad would you like to go to Africa with me for three weeks to purchase a vehicle for the ZSF on your nickle?" I asked him. Whoever goes with me will buy their own plane ticket, pay for their own food and lodging, and even pay for the gas used for the vehicle once we purchase it. This is how our charity operates; 100% of the donations go to put Zambians through high school as the Zambian government does not pay for high school. We are trying to make a difference in the lives of the people in Zambia. Tad had a conflict and confessed that his knowledge of cars was not sufficient anyway but he knew an expert mechanic that he had used for years. Tad called me the next day and informed me that Mike McNeil and Pete McNeil, the owners of McNeil's Auto Care in Sandy, Utah had agreed that one of them would go on the trip with their wife. After they discussed the matter it was decided that Mike and his wife Leslie would go because the trip was for three weeks and Pete McNeil who was actively running the business at that time could not leave for a solid three weeds. Pete McNeil, as President of McNeil's Auto Care agreed that the company would finance the McNeil's expenses of this charitable trip. I soon learned that the McNeil famile are very kind, compassionate, giving and loving people. I was taking my daughter Katie with me. I made several joint calls with Mike McNeil and we purchased one way tickets on Orbits from SLC to Dar, Tanzania leaving Feb 5 and one way tickets from Lusaka, Zambia to SLC that would get us back on Feb 24 in the evening. We were now committed. The president of the ZSF informed us that no U.S. bank would wire funds to a bank in Dar unless we signed an agreement that if the funds did not get there the ZSF would stand the loss. There is simply too much dishonesty and fraud in this region of Africa to attempt a wire transfer. No business would accept traveler's checks or money orders in Tanzania which was also a big problem. We called several auto dealers in Dar and no one would take a credit card. The only solution was to take cash--and lots of it. Leslie made cash belts to wear under our clothing and we each carried about $9,000.00 cash. After arriving in Dar we met up with some people who were to help us find a vehicle. With Mike's expertise we soon figured out they were trying to make a $5,000.00 commission on our purchase and were trying to sell us junk vehicles. Based on Mike's expertise, we ventured off on our own. I was always amazed that once a vehicle was started Mike could tell within a few moments what major problems the vehicle had. We met with one dealer who tried to sell us a 2010 Toyota Land Cruiser for $42,000 that really was a 2007. Mike read the serial number and explained to the dealer that it was not a 2010 but a 2007. Mike finally found a 2007 TLC series 70 which we negotiated for the sum of $26,500 which was virtually identical to the one the other dealer had just tried to sell to us for $42,000.00. The repairs Mike had requested were made as part of the price and as part of the consideration we were provided a driver from Dar to the Zambia border which was about a 14 hour drive. After the repairs were made we paid for the vehicle with $100 bills and were on our way to Zambia. This 2007 TLC Series 70 we purchased will seat 8 in the backplus the two int the front. NO QUESTION ABOUT IT. WITHOUT THE FINANCIAL COMMITMENT OF MCNEIL'S AUTO CARE AND MIKE'S EXPERTISE WE NEVER WOULD HAVE PULLED THIS OFF. We were on our way. At 4:00 a.m. we pulled into the border town of Tunduma, Tanzania and the driver parked by some big rigs for a few hours sleep. We finally crossed the boarder into Zambia and met the ZSF employee that drove us into Kasama, Zambia where we spent a few days visiting high schools where the ZSF sponsors students. The ZSF has been using the vehicle ever since to accomplish its charitable work. Mike and Leslie McNeil in Zambia Mike and Leslie McNeil spent three weeks of their lives and McNeil's Auto Care provided at least $8,000.00 to $10,000.00 of its funds to help the ZSF purchase the vehicle. The ZSF is determined to build a trade school in Kasama, Zambia which will give the students we support through high school a means to develop skills post-high school to make a living and support a family in a country where unemployment exceeds 90%. Mike and Pete McNeil have committed to oversee the set up of the auto mechanic portion of the trade school. The ZSF is deeply indebted to McNeil's Auto Care and the McNeil family for all that they have done to help the charity and for their future commitment to help with the trade school. Pete, Mike and their spouses are all both generous and charitable people who are trying to make a difference in the world. As I look around at our competitive society and see so many that become selfish and greedy it is refreshing to meet people like McNeils and companies like McNeil's Auto Care who see the individual worth of "the least of these" and are willing to share what they have with them to give them a hope for a better life. My time spent in Tanzania and Zambia with the McNeils was a life changing experience and I am grateful to have become lifelong friend of the McNeil family. I returned from another trip to Zambia in October of 2014 and Pete and Mike wanted a full report.1 went over the trip with them and they again expressed their commitment that they and McNeil's Auto Care would help me set up the automotive aspect of the trade school the ZSF will be building in Kasama, Zambia. The McNiels and their business, McNeil's Auto Care, are a great asset to the community in which they live.

Jim Boud, Vice President of the Zambia Scholarship

NAPA Salt Lake City

Wed, 02 Oct 2024 12:50:07 GMT

NAPA Salt Lake City

To Whom It May Concern:

I would like to take this opportunity to recognize the efforts of one of our valued customer's Pete McNeil. McNeil's Auto Care Center has been a long time customer of NAPA Auto Parts. The partnership developed with Pete McNeil as a supporter in our NAPA Auto Care, Integrated Business Solutions programs, and our NAPA products and supplies has proven to be a match made in heaven. Pete's keen business sense and knowledge in many different areas has been an asset to us with our other customers as well. Pete is always willing to share his knowledge and experience with other members of our NAPA Auto Care Business Development Groups, and provides guidance and assistance where ever he can. Pete has been chosen by our National AutoCare Committee to be a guest speaker at our upcoming NAPA Expo and will present to over 15,000 people. With Pete's guidance, McNeil's Auto Care Center has become a leader in its field, with the dedicated and knowledgeable staff, we feel comfortable in having them repair our own vehicles, and recommending them to others. Pete is an advocate in seeing that his staff takes advantage of all training opportunities, and assists in the development and growth of each and every employee. We highly recommend Pete and McNeil's Auto Care Center as a business whose integrity, customer service skills, and expertise in their field will always find themselves as a leader in the community, and will always represent our NAPA programs with pride.

Sincerely,

Tully Arends NAPA Salt Lake District Manager

Inter FC Utah

Wed, 02 Oct 2024 12:50:05 GMT

Inter FC Utah

To whom it may concern,

Inter FC Utah (a non-profit youth soccer club) writes this letter of recognition and appreciation for McNeil's NAPA Auto Care sponsorships and Pete McNeil's personal volunteer time. McNeil's NAPA Auto Care is one of our club's annual sponsors and has been a tremendous help in assisting us with professional branding and future opportunities for all of our youth soccer players in our organization. We are extremely appreciative to Pete McNeil for his tireless volunteer efforts in behalf of the Inter FC organization. Pete volunteers on our Board of Directors and is a priceless asset to which the Inter FC soccer club is really fortunate to have in our soccer family. Inter FC is a non-profit 501c3 organization (#87-0686000) dedicated to assisting youth soccer players with their long term athletic and academic goals. We are a "College Prep Soccer Club" that is passionate about college soccer placement and our youth players long term futures. With this assistance of McNeil's NAPA Auto Care and Pete McNeil's volunteer efforts there is no way we would be able to continue moving forward in a positive direction for our youth players!!

Thank you for your consideration,

Matt Broadhead Technical Director Inter FC Utah

Honoring Heroes Foundation Board

Wed, 02 Oct 2024 12:50:04 GMT

Honoring Heroes Foundation Board

Dear McNeil's Towing/Auto Care,

The board for the Honoring Heroes Foundation would like to express our appreciation for your efforts in fundraising money for our foundation. The Honoring Heroes Foundation was formed "To protect and provide for fallen and wounded Troopers and for the well-being of the dependents and employees of the Utah Highway Patrol and the Department of Public Safety." We accomplish this by assisting with expenses not covered by insurance when Troopers are injured on the job or encounter other catastrophic expenses. There are several Troopers with severe financial and family problems because of extreme medical expenses, uninsured house damage from weather, or unbearable financial strain from other sources. Most of these Troopers simply suffer along without telling anyone. They are forced to get a second job to supplement their wages, in some cases; spouses may take a part time job at the expense of raising their children. As a result troopers may choose to simply take their skills and experience, and reluctantly go to other departments for higher wages. When these unforeseen emergencies arise, The Honoring Heroes Foundation is able to help our troopers overcome these difficult times. In doing so, we alleviate the pressing financial stresses of the emergency. Because of generous donations The Honoring Heroes Foundation makes a difference in the lives of those who protect us each day. Through your generous donation we can further help these everyday heroes with what they need. With all the bad opinions towards police lately it is great to see that your company still supports these great men and woman. We speak on behalf of all the troopers and DPS employees in saying thank you for all you have done.

Sincerely,

Honoring Heroes Foundation Board

Canyons Technical Education Center

Wed, 02 Oct 2024 12:50:03 GMT

Canyons Technical Education Center

To Mr. McNeil,

I would like to thank you for donating three vehicles to our high school fire fighting program. It provided our students with an opportunity to train on auto extrication. The trainings assisted not just the fire program but several of the programs at our school. Each semester the firefighting, EMT, criminal justice, and forensic science programs participate in a mock mass casualty training. During the scenario students must not only apply the knowledge they have learned throughout the semester to the scenario but also work with students from the other programs. Sometimes this aspect of the scenario — communication and coordination of roles - is the most challenging for the students. The vehicles help set-up the scenario and create a more realistic environment. For the fire fighting program specifically, our students are taught about various methods of extrication and how the methods depend on the vehicle, the crash, and how victims may be trapped. The vehicles you provided gave our students a chance to use extrication equipment — including the Jaws of Life—to experience how the extrication equipment affects vehicles. Each cut made, each time the Jaws spread a door or support, the vehicle changes and the dynamics of the extrication process must be re-evaluated. The extrication process needs to be quick and efficient but always with the safety of the trapped patient as the top priority. Our students gained valuable experience through this hands-on training. I look forward to working with you in the future. From donating the vehicles, to bringing them to the school, to taking them away once our training was finished, McNeil's Towing was wonderful to work with. I appreciate your support of our program.

Sincerely,

Sarah Domyan CTEC Fire Science Program Administrator

Angel’s Hands Foundation

Wed, 02 Oct 2024 12:50:02 GMT

Angel’s Hands Foundation

To Whom It May Concern:

My name is Deb Harper and I am blessed with the title of Vice President of Angel's Hands Foundation. www.anoelshands.orq. Our foundation gives help to children and families with the rarest of diseases. I can't even express to you the hardship that we see with these families. Because of Pete McNeil I have one story with a very happy ending. I also own a heavy highway construction company, Deb Harper Concrete, Inc. and have worked with Pete McNeil for many years having him work with my fleet. Not only do I respect him as a business man, and the comfort I feel in his honesty I have the utmost respect for him with what he does throughout the community. I have a personal story I would like to share with you. One of our families who had just gotten their young son out of Primary Children's Hospital, after enduring his 12"' surgery, and has had an extremely hard year financially due to this and other factors, blew their engine on their one and only vehicle that got Mom and Dad to work and Jack to many Dr. visits. I decided I would reach out to Pete McNeil with the situation and see what help he could be, if any. NEVER did I expect the reaction and help that I got. He immediately towed the vehicle to his shop for the unsuspecting parents to get an "estimate to fix it. The day he called with the estimate I knew I had one donation to go toward the repair, but also knew that we had a long way to go to repair this van that needed much work, including a new engine. I told him about the donation I had and he said "Deb I want to do this for this family". Not only did Pete and McNeil's Auto fix the engine, they repaired everything that was needed and had it completely detailed. I was so touched by the humbleness that I saw in him. Needless to say it was one of the best days of this family's life, mine, and I am sure Pete's when Santa was at the shop waiting for them to "go over the estimate" and surprised them with Christmas for their family and a bill for ZERO to fix their van. This father is not one to show emotion and as long as I have worked with this family have never seen him express much. He broke down in tears that day and has sent emails since stating "we have no idea how this has touched his life. There is not a day goes by I don't think about the kindness that was shown to my struggling family." What Pete McNeil and McNeil Auto did that day has changed the life of this family for the better. After Pete met the Founder of Angel's Hands, (Our Santa Claus) he was already reaching out to us and wanting to get involved in our Foundation. Mark and Roxann Kristensen the founders of Angel's Hands can relate to these families. They lost their son Matt 12 years ago from a rare disease and now his legacy is here to help as many families in their situation as possible. Having Pete on our side is a blessing, and a bonus that I can never express enough gratitude for.

Sincerely,

Deb Harper, VP Angel's Hands Foundation

Police Department

Wed, 02 Oct 2024 12:50:00 GMT

Police Department

To Whom It May Concern:

I am writing this as a letter of recognition for McNeil's Auto Care in Sandy, Utah for the many ways they have contributed to the betterment of our community. McNeil's is a sponsor for "Sandy Pride" which is an annual community beautification day where citizens participate in a variety of projects around the city, in an effort to clean-up and beautify our community. They also participate as one of the rotation wreckers for the Sandy Police Department and are the only towing service we use that carries AAA certification. They have worked hard to build a reputation as a business with integrity and they have invested large amounts of money in their business as well as their tow yard to demonstrate their commitment to the community. It is a pleasure to have a company like McNeil's Auto Care in our city. I hope you will strongly consider them for the recognition they deserve. If you have any questions or would like to discuss anything further please do not hesitate to contact mc.

Sincerely,

Kevin Thacker Chief of Police

Bad Vibes (Disc brake rotor problems)

Fri, 19 Jul 2024 21:09:09 GMT

Bad Vibes (Disc brake rotor problems)

If you were to name the most important safety feature on your vehicle right now, what would your answer be? A lot of driving experts would agree that it’s your brakes. Most newer vehicles use a well-engineered and efficient style of brakes called disc brakes.

The name disc brakes comes from one of the components: a disc attached to the wheel hub that is squeezed by parts called calipers. If you’ve ever ridden a bicycle with hand brakes, you probably have seen how they squeeze against the rim of the bike wheel to stop the bike. It’s similar to the way your vehicle’s calipers squeeze against the disc rotor, with added parts called brake pads attached to the calipers that are what create the friction and stop your vehicle.

Here’s why disc brakes need regular maintenance. Over time, that friction creates wear and tear on the brake pads and the rotors, and you’ll start to see the signs. Your brakes may have one of the 3 “S” sounds: squeaking, squealing, or scraping. The sound is usually the first sign of brake pad wear which can lead to rotor damage. Soon you may notice a pulsating or vibration when you brake. That’s because your once smooth and straight rotor disc is warping from the heat generated from friction. Or it may be due to wear. Eventually, your brakes will take a longer distance to stop your vehicle, and the rotors can have grooves carved into them.

When you start noticing any of these signs, it’s a good idea to have them inspected by a trained technician. They will measure the rotor thickness, check wear patterns for grooves and heat discoloration, and see how much of the brake pads remain. They will also check to make sure all brake components are moving freely, check your brake fluid, and look for corrosion.

Most vehicle manufacturers require worn or damaged rotors to be replaced, not resurfaced. It’s all part of a complete brake job, replacing pads and the brake hardware parts along with the rotors. It reduces the chance of premature failure.

How often you will need your brakes serviced depends on the manufacturer’s recommendations, your driving habits, and the environment you live in. Your service facility can recommend the best replacement parts based on those factors.

Regular maintenance and attention are vital for keeping your brakes performing like they are designed to. Remember, your brakes are your vehicle’s most important safety feature.

McNeil's AutoCare

Always on Guard (TPMS)

Fri, 19 Jul 2024 21:07:10 GMT

Always on Guard (TPMS)

One of the most important things you can do to keep your vehicle running safely is to make sure your tires are properly inflated. If one or more is vastly over- or underinflated, that has the potential to cause major handling problems and may result in a dangerous accident.

All vehicles in recent years are equipped with Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems, or TPMS. One system uses small sensors in the tires that continually check the pressure in each tire. That sensor sends a signal to computers in your vehicle which turns on an instrument panel light warning of low pressure when at least one is very low. Or it may update a numeric reading on your instrument panel which gives you an approximation of how many PSI (pounds per square inch) of air is in each tire.

Another system works with your antilock brake system to measure the size of your vehicle’s tires. When one wheel is going faster than another, it will spin faster. A computer sees that and alerts you that tire’s diameter is smaller than the others and therefore must be underinflated.

No matter what system you have, it’s also helpful for you to know how much pressure each tire is supposed to be inflated to. You can find that on a label on the driver’s side door sill. In addition, the TPMS system should not be used as a substitute for checking your tires with a tire gauge since the TPMS accuracy usually isn’t quite as precise. Keep in mind that tire sensors can fail, so each system acts as a backup for the other.

Since many vehicles these days don’t have spare tires, it’s good to know that your TPMS can warn you if you have a leak in one of your tires. If you get a low-pressure warning, many systems will tell you which tire is low, so you can do your own visual check. Often you can see if you’ve picked up a nail or a screw if it’s sticking out of the tread or near the sidewall.

Being able to receive an early warning from your vehicle of abnormal tire pressure may give you a chance to safely drive to a service center before your tire slowly goes completely flat (which can ruin the tire and badly damage the rim). It also may ultimately prevent you from being stranded somewhere with a flat tire or, most importantly, having a sudden blowout on the road.

McNeil's AutoCare

Lubricate Driveshaft

Fri, 19 Jul 2024 21:05:07 GMT

Lubricate Driveshaft

See if any of these are happening to your vehicle. You feel it vibrating excessively underneath when it’s running, or you hear strange clunking, grating, or grinding sounds coming from beneath. Maybe it’s hard to turn your vehicle, or you can hear squeaking when you’re going slow. Perhaps you feel a shudder when you step on the throttle.

Any of those could be signs that your vehicle’s driveshaft might need lubricating, and it’s important to have one of our technicians check it out. Your vehicle’s engine puts out a lot of twisting power. That force is called torque, and the driveshaft is the part that handles the job of transferring all that torque from your engine to the wheels. If it’s a four-wheel or all-wheel drive vehicle, it will have driveshafts front and rear.

Some driveshafts have different segments which are connected by couplings called U-Joints. So that everything can glide along fine, that whole assembly needs to stay well lubricated. Our technician can inspect the driveshaft and U-joints to make sure there aren’t any broken or excessively worn parts.

Many manufacturers recommend servicing and lubricating the driveshaft at certain intervals, and it’s important to keep on that schedule. It’s essential because poor lubrication can lead to a failure while you are driving, possibly causing other expensive parts to fail. Not keeping your driveshaft lubricated or failing to maintain it regularly is the top cause of driveshaft problems.

McNeil's AutoCare

Rotation Explanation (Tire Rotation Patterns)

Fri, 19 Jul 2024 21:04:12 GMT

Rotation Explanation (Tire Rotation Patterns)

You may notice that when you get your vehicle's oil changed, your service adviser may recommend that you have your tires rotated at the same time. The reasons are simple. That will allow your tires to wear more evenly and reduce the noise your tires make as you drive down the road.

There are different ways of rotating tires. If your vehicle has non-directional tires and the same size wheels at each corner, here are the different rotation patterns.

For all-wheel drive and rear-wheel drive vehicles, one is called the rearward cross pattern. The rear tires are moved to the front and stay on the same side of the vehicle, and the front tires are moved to the rear on the side opposite of where they were on the front.

For all-wheel and four-wheel drive vehicles, use the X pattern. The rear tires are moved to the front on the opposite side of the vehicle, and the fronts are moved to the rear on the opposite side of where they were on the front.

For front-wheel drive, there's the forward cross. The front tires are moved to the rear wheels on the same side of the vehicle as they were on the front and the rear tires are moved to the opposite side of the vehicle than they were on the rear.

If you have directional tires (they only can be mounted in one direction) and the same size directional wheels, the rear tires are moved to the front on the same side of the vehicle where they were, and the front tires are moved to the rear on the same side they were on the front. And if you have tires with different sizes of non-directional tires and wheels on the front and rear, rotation will be from one side of the vehicle to the other.

If you have a spare, it's put into the rotation using a forward cross or rearward cross.

Yep, that's a lot to keep straight. So, we suggest letting your service advisor recommend the right rotation pattern for you at the interval your vehicle's manufacturer specifies.

McNeil's AutoCare

A Clean Sweep (Fuel Injector Cleaning)

Fri, 19 Jul 2024 21:02:55 GMT

A Clean Sweep (Fuel Injector Cleaning)

Your vehicle gets its power from burning fuel, usually gasoline, and it counts on something called fuel injectors to send gas to the engine in a spray that is easy to ignite. It’s a precise operation, and when it’s working well, you have plenty of power and an efficient engine.

But after time, contaminants in the fuel system may prevent the injectors from spraying like they’re supposed to. They can also shoot contaminants into the engine.

One sign that could point to dirty fuel injectors is a misfiring engine. Misfires can be caused by several things, so it’s a good idea to bring your vehicle to us so we can trace the cause. Another sign is that your fuel economy has gone downhill or your engine doesn’t have the “pep” it used to.

If we discover that your injectors are clogged or not working the way they should, we can clean them to get rid of those contaminants to restore your engine to its top performance. When you bring your vehicle to us, we will connect the flushing equipment, flush out the injectors and reassemble the system.

A good time to have fuel injectors inspected is when you bring your vehicle in for routine maintenance. An oil change is an ideal time to have a technician take a close look at your entire fuel delivery system.

When you have your fuel injectors cleaned, you may see your mileage go up, your engine performance improve, and your exhaust emissions decrease.

McNeil's AutoCare

Getting Off to a Running Start (Starter Replacement)

Fri, 19 Jul 2024 20:06:15 GMT

Getting Off to a Running Start (Starter Replacement)

When you start your vehicle’s engine, there’s another motor that makes that whole process possible. It’s called the starter, and it’s a small electric motor that gets your vehicle running.

As you can imagine, it’s quite a chore for a little electric motor to turn over the big engine that powers your vehicle. And after hundreds of successful starting missions, after a while, it will start to give out.

You’ll know the starter is starting to give up the ghost when it turns too slowly or sometimes doesn’t do anything when you turn on the ignition. Maybe it makes funny noises like grinding when you try to start your vehicle or maybe there’s just a click. Those are all reasons to get your vehicle over to us so we can see what’s going on.

A technician will make sure the problem is the starter and not in the battery, a switch, or other electrical component or connections. If all of those are ruled out, your starter will be replaced. The technician will also make sure all the cables and connections to the battery are clean and solid.

Often starter problems come on gradually, and they often give you advanced warning that it’s time to have it fixed—before you find yourself frustrated— and stranded.

McNeil's AutoCare

Don't Blow a Gasket! (Valve Cover Gasket Replacement)

Fri, 19 Jul 2024 20:04:32 GMT

Don't Blow a Gasket! (Valve Cover Gasket Replacement)

When you head out to your vehicle after it's been parked and notice oil leaking underneath it, that's something to have looked at right away. Oil leaks mean your oil level is probably low, and running a vehicle in that condition can lead to expensive repairs.

While there are many reasons oil leaks develop, one possibility is a bad valve cover gasket. Vehicle engines have a cover bolted over the spot where the engine valves are, and that cover keeps the oil inside the engine. In between the cover and the engine is a gasket that keeps that seal tight. But after many years of high engine temperatures and vibrations, that gasket or the bolts that hold on the valve cover can fail or loosen, and oil can leak.

You may see dirty oil on the valve cover in the engine compartment, near the spark plugs, or around the bolts that hold the valve cover on. All those are signs of leakage and time to bring your vehicle in for our technicians to check out.

In some vehicles, taking off the valve cover and replacing the gasket is a relatively easy job. In some models, though, other engine parts are located near that part of the engine and must be removed to get at the gasket, so repair costs can vary widely.

The technician will measure to make sure the valve cover isn't warped so it can be reused. If it is warped, they'll recommend replacing it with the gasket.

While the technician has that area of your engine accessible, they will also check to see if other components need replacing at the same time, which could save you money. And because valve cover gaskets usually fail in older vehicles, the technician will check for other oil leaks then, too.

One of the best ways to be sure your valve cover is doing its job is to have your vehicle regularly maintained. The technician will periodically look over your engine compartment and make sure you know when things are showing signs of age and wear BEFORE they fail and leave you stranded.

McNeil's AutoCare

Stopping "Brake" Downs (Brake Pad Replacement)

Fri, 19 Jul 2024 20:02:38 GMT

Stopping "Brake" Downs (Brake Pad Replacement)

If someone tells you to put the brakes on something, you know it means stop. And stopping is one of the most important safety maneuvers you can do in any vehicle. That means your brakes have to work properly.

Let's face it. You stop dozens of times every time you drive. And over time, that takes its toll on your brakes. Friction is what stops your vehicle. Most newer vehicles have disc brakes, and the parts that wear out the fastest are those that rub against each other every time you stop, the rotors and the pads.

The rotors are discs that rotate with the wheels, and the pads are removable surfaces that make contact with the rotors to slow or stop your vehicle. Bits of both wear off each time you stop, and when enough of either (or both) lose too much material, your brakes become unable to safely slow or stop your vehicle.

The pads usually are the parts that wear out first. Signs that your brakes might be getting worn are:

You hear grinding, squeaking, or clicking when you apply them
It takes a longer distance to stop
Your pedal vibrates when you brake
The front of your vehicle pulls to one side when you brake

If you notice any of these, bring your car to us so we can have a technician inspect your brakes. Most brake pads have a wear indicator that indicates it's time they should be replaced. The technician who is checking things out will also look at your rotors for wear, as well as other brake system components.

With regular inspections and maintenance, you'll be sure that when you need to stop, your vehicle will be up to the task.

McNeil's AutoCare

Bad Vibrations (Brake Rotor Replacement)

Fri, 19 Jul 2024 20:01:03 GMT

Bad Vibrations (Brake Rotor Replacement)

If you’ve ever stepped on your brake pedal and felt your vehicle vibrate, that’s a signal that you shouldn’t ignore. A pulsating brake pedal is a sign that something is wrong. Braking action should be smooth, sure, and quiet, not shaky and noisy.

Most newer vehicles have disc brakes, called that because they have a round, flat disc connected to each wheel. Those discs are the rotors. Other parts called brake pads are squeezed against those discs when you press on the brake pedal.

Remember that vibration we mentioned? That can be caused by the rotor not having a straight, true surface. Rotors can heat up from friction and warp. They can become thinner from constant wear. Rotors can rust from the elements they’re exposed to, such as rain, snow ice, and salt. They can get grooves in them from so many contacts with the pads.

The signs of worn rotors are vibrations, grooves on the rotor (which you can see sometimes through open spots in the wheel) noise such as squealing or scraping when you brake, and increased stopping distance.

While it used to be common for rotors to be machined (shaved down to restore their flat surface), newer vehicles have thinner rotors, so your service adviser may suggest you replace rotors when they start showing signs of significant wear.

Brakes are important safety equipment for every vehicle. They enhance your control while driving, so it’s important that they be regularly inspected and maintained. A good time is when you have your tires rotated. A technician can then look at all components of your brakes and recommend any service you may need to keep your brakes in top shape.

McNeil's AutoCare

How Cool is That! (Coolant level sensor replacement)

Fri, 19 Jul 2024 16:09:31 GMT

How Cool is That! (Coolant level sensor replacement)

Your vehicle’s engine runs hot. It should, since it’s a series of little explosions that create the power that gets you going where you want to go. To keep the engine cool, engineers have designed wonderful cooling systems that use liquid coolant, hoses, and a radiator to transfer the heat from the engine to the outside air.

In order for the system to work right, it has to have the right amount of that liquid coolant in it. So that you know when the coolant has dipped below the correct amount, there is a sensor that keeps an eye on it. When the coolant gets low, that sensor lights up a signal on the dash to alert you. It may literally say “Check Coolant” or it may have a picture that looks like an old-style bulb thermometer sitting in liquid. Your owner’s manual will usually tell you exactly what the one in your vehicle looks like.

If that sensor system isn’t working right, you could wind up driving for a long time with not enough coolant in the engine, and the excess heat can cause some extensive—and expensive—damage.

There are a couple of ways you will know if something’s wrong with your coolant level sensor. One is when you top off the coolant tank, and the low coolant light stays on. If you suspect yours might be having a problem, bring it in so we can thoroughly check your coolant system.

If it is a sensor, we can run a test to see where the problem is in your cooling system. It could be a bad sensor, but it also could be that there is something causing your coolant level to be low. If the sensor needs replacing, the technician will replace it, fill your coolant level to the manufacturer’s recommended level, and test for any leaks in the system. Really, how cool is that?

McNeil's AutoCare

10665 S 700 E

Sandy, UT 84070

Easy on the Wheel (Power Steering)

Tue, 16 Jul 2024 21:06:16 GMT

Easy on the Wheel (Power Steering)

Steering a vehicle these days doesn't take much effort, but if you got behind the wheel back before power steering was invented, you'd need to practically have the strength of Hercules to turn the wheel.

The first power steering systems widely available changed everything. Chrysler introduced its Hydraguide power system in 1951. The "hydra" was for a hydraulic pump. It pressurized fluid that multiplied the force applied to the steering wheel so it was easier to turn the wheels on the ground. That pump got power from a belt attached to the engine, but unfortunately it wasted a lot of energy in the process. Plus, the system of hoses and pumps required a fair amount of maintenance and repair. Some say this system provides the most "natural" steering experience of power systems.

Recently, automakers have turned to electric power steering. It gets its power from the car's electrical battery and charging system and uses an electric motor to turn the wheels. Since it's not powered by the mechanical energy of your vehicle's engine, electric power steering increases fuel economy. Electric power steering also doesn't require hoses and fluids, meaning there are fewer things that can go wrong. That means less maintenance.

There's a third system that combines both of the others, called electro-hydraulic power steering. In this system, the hydraulic power steering pump is powered by an electric motor and, some say, gives the driver that more natural feel of hydraulic systems.

Because steering is so important for the safe operation of any vehicle, it's essential to make sure yours is working the way it should. Different types of systems require different kinds of upkeep. Regular, scheduled maintenance according to the manufacturer's recommendations should help keep your steering in top shape so you can avoid any sudden steering failures. Bring your vehicle to us so a technician can inspect your steering system. And, of course, if you notice any steering problems, make an appointment right away to have those issues looked at. Now that's one stop that makes sense!

McNeil's AutoCare

Do I Need Brake Service? (Brake Service)

Wed, 19 Jun 2024 16:05:42 GMT

Do I Need Brake Service? (Brake Service)

Think of how many times you put your foot on your vehicle’s brake pedal every day. And think of how much you rely on your brakes to slow down and stop your momentum. When it comes to safety systems, your brakes are at the top of the list, and that’s why it’s so important to keep them in top condition. Brakes are something you make sure you keep maintained before they start showing signs of problems.

Some of those signs are a grinding sound when you step on the brake pedal, your vehicle pulling to one side when you brake, you don’t feel your brakes stopping you as quickly as they used to, or you notice the brake light is illuminated on your instrument panel.

We ask a lot of our brakes. They have to work no matter how hot or cold it is outside. That means whether it’s sunny, snowing, raining, or icy; you’re traveling at highway speeds or school-zone speeds; or when suddenly you find yourself trying to avoid hitting another vehicle, animal, person, or obstacle in the road. They have to work on smooth or rough pavement.

When you bring your vehicle in to us for brake service, we will first inspect your brakes and all the parts in the system. Our technician will closely check all the components for wear, deterioration, and corrosion. We’ll check fluids, bushings, seals, and other components and make recommendations for what should be replaced or repaired to keep the system in top condition. We’ll recommend quality parts that meet your vehicle manufacturer’s specifications.

We want to make sure your vehicle’s brakes are doing for you what they are designed to do. Your safety—and the safety of all the people around you—is at stake when it comes to your brakes.

McNeil's AutoCare

10665 S 700 E

Sandy, UT 84070

Losing Your Cool (Why is My Air Conditioning System Not Working?)

Tue, 30 Jan 2024 19:54:44 GMT

Losing Your Cool (Why is My Air Conditioning System Not Working?)

When you turn on the air conditioning in your vehicle, you expect cool air to come out of the vents. You depend on it, especially in hot weather, but it can also be important in humid weather when you need it to help defrost your windows and windshield.

The air conditioning system has a lot of parts to it. It has fans and blowers to move the air through the vents into the cabin. It has parts that take hot air and cool it off. An electrical problem can be as simple as a broken switch or a broken blower motor. The air may not be getting cool because a hose in the system is broken or the refrigerant has leaked out.

Two major components are the compressor and the condenser. The compressor pressurizes the refrigerant, one step in the air conditioning process. The condenser takes that hot refrigerant and cools it down. It also reduces the pressure.

Because the climate control system in your vehicle is so complex, it’s best to leave the diagnosis to a trained, experienced technician. You can help the technician zero in on the problem by noting what is happening and being able to show them where you notice the issues. Note what’s going on and write it down.

When you bring your vehicle in to us to look at, a technician will inspect the system, conduct tests to make sure there’s enough refrigerant, and check to make sure there are no leaks anywhere.

Air conditioning is now included in most vehicles. We all have grown used to being able to keep the cabin comfortable no matter what it’s like outside. Let us make sure your system is working the way it was designed to. That’s definitely the cool thing to do.

McNeil's AutoCare

5 Tips for Buying Used in Sandy

Tue, 04 May 2021 21:08:17 GMT

5 Tips for Buying Used in Sandy

Here are 5 tips from McNeil's AutoCare for used car buyers:

1. Ask for service records. Most owners who document regular maintenance service take care of their vehicle.

2. Inspect the vehicle thoroughly. Check for uneven tire wear, alignment, suspension issues, strange sounds and funky odors.

3. If everything checks out up to this point, take it to McNeil's AutoCare for a thorough used car inspection. Your friendly and knowledgeable service advisor at McNeil's AutoCare can give you a heads up on any pressing issues or emerging problems that will need to be addressed eventually. If the seller won't let you do this before you buy, move on.

4. Buy a CarFax report. This will show any major accidents and title status concerns including whether it is a salvaged vehicle. You don't want a car that was underwater for a week after Hurricane Sandy.

5. After you buy, stay on top of regular maintenance (and save the records). McNeil's AutoCare will help keep your car running well and you will enjoy not having a car payment.

As always, give us a call if you have any specific questions.

McNeil's AutoCare

At McNeil's AutoCare we install quality NAPA replacement parts.

Have McNeil's AutoCare Check Your Tire Tread Depth

Tue, 04 May 2021 16:07:34 GMT

Have McNeil's AutoCare Check Your Tire Tread Depth

You may have heard of racing slicks. Now, slicks have no tread, but they give race cars maximum traction on dry racetracks. Insert a little water into the equation, however, and slicks can’t maintain control. Because there is nowhere for the water to go, the tire rides on top of a thin film of water and slides all over the place

Street tires have treads that are designed to move water out from under the tire so that it can grip the road. The deeper the tread, the move water it can move. As tires wear, they have progressively less traction on wet roads. That means longer stopping distances and less traction in corners

So, having enough tire tread is very important for your safety. There have been tests comparing stopping distances of vehicles with new tires and those with worn tires. The vehicle with worn tires is still traveling at a high rate of speed at the point at which the vehicle with new tires has already stopped. That could be the difference between getting home safely and a serious accident.

Many safety experts recommend you replace your tires when your tread is worn down to a depth of 4/32ths of an inch. That’s the distance to George Washington’s head when a quarter is inserted upside down into the tread of a properly inflated tire.

You may have heard of the same test using a penny. That gives you about 2/32ths of an inch of tread. The studies have shown a significant safety benefit in replacing tires with the quarter standard.

Ask your service advisor to have your tires checked to see how much life you have left in them.

Give us a call

McNeil's AutoCare

10665 S 700 E

Sandy, UT 84070

How Time Flies

Mon, 14 Oct 2019 20:10:07 GMT

How Time Flies

Funny how the mind can play tricks on you when it comes to your vehicle's service. If you're not keeping track closely, time can slip away.

A driver recently took his 10-year-old vehicle into his AutoCare Center for an oil change. Knowing the colder weather was approaching, his technician took the opportunity to check out a few components that are vital for a vehicle to work correctly in the winter months.

One was the battery. They performed a battery test to determine the battery’s health and ability to hold a charge. The service technician found this battery was not holding a charge well. The Service Advisor asked the driver how old the battery was, and he thought he'd replaced it "a couple of years ago." The battery said otherwise. Most batteries have a manufacturing date stamped on them, and the technician was able to determine it was five years old. That's about when most batteries begin to fail. The technician also checked to see if the vehicle's charging system was sending enough current to charge the battery; it was.

The diagnosis and recommendation: a new battery. The driver realized if the technician hadn't run that simple test on the old battery, he might have wound up stranded on a cold day because the battery didn’t have the cranking power to start his engine. With so much to keep track of these days, it’s easy for a driver not to be able to remember when the battery had been replaced, or many other services were performed last.

That's why it's important to stay on top of your vehicle maintenance. It helps to save your service records. Your NAPA AutoCare Center keeps records of what services you've had done, and which need doing. Time marches on, and so will your vehicle if you make sure all its systems are kept up to date.

McNeil's AutoCare

Drum Brakes

Thu, 18 Jul 2019 21:09:59 GMT

Drum Brakes

Brakes that work properly are essential to your safety. You want to carefully maintain your brakes. In vehicles equipped with drum brakes, the brake components are housed inside a drum that rotates with the wheel. When you step on the brake pedal, brake shoes push out against the inside of the drum, slowing the wheel.

Now brake shoes just wear away with use from rubbing on the drum as you brake. When it’s time to replace brake shoes, it’s a straight-forward repair.

If you hear squealing or grinding when braking, have your service advisor check them out. He’ll have a technician perform a thorough brake inspection to see what needs to be done. He’ll check for signs of brake problems and go over other brake components to see that they’re working properly.

He can tell you if it’s time to replace the shoes or if there are other issues with your brakes that should be addressed. Some people ignore the warning signs and keep driving long after the shoes are completely worn out. When that happens, metal brake components will grind against the drum, damaging it enough that it must be resurfaced or replaced.

When you push on your brake pedal, the wheel cylinder is activated, and it pushes the shoes against the drum to slow the vehicle. This cylinder, and various springs within the brake, can wear out affecting your ability to stop. The worn components can be easily replaced.

The new shoes we put on your vehicle will restore your brakes to manufacturers’ specifications. Or, we can install upgraded parts to increase your stopping power and reduce brake noise and brake dust. We have several options to meet your braking requirements and your budget.

Taking care of your brakes keeps them working safely – and you could prevent premature brake repairs down the road.

Give us a call

McNeil's AutoCare

Simple Answers from McNeil's AutoCare for Sandy: Windshield Wipers

Thu, 20 Jun 2019 21:11:02 GMT

Simple Answers from McNeil's AutoCare for Sandy: Windshield Wipers

Question

When should I replace my windshield wipers?

Answer

Well, most people wait until they fail. The problem with that is that you find out they have failed when you need them most – a little too late.

Wiper blades are really an important safety system. As you can imagine, 90% of our 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.

So, the simple answer: of course, change your wipers if they don’t work well. But replace them before they go bad, so they are always ready when that storm hits. For some people, 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 of wiper blades. The conventional blade is the base model. On the other end of the spectrum are beam blades. These have a solid beam that provides uniform pressure over the entire wiper surface for better contact with the windshield. And there are hybrid blades that are a combination of conventional and beam blades.

Upgraded wiper blades last longer and provide a cleaner wipe. You can always upgrade, but never go with a lower grade blade than what was installed on your vehicle from the factory.

Finally, there are special winter blades. The special design of winter wiper blades resists snow and ice build-up in the blade.

Remember, using your wipers on an icy windshield will tear up your wiper blades. Scrape your windshield before running your wipers.

Your service advisor can give you wiper blade options and help you select what’s best for this important safety system.

Give us a call

McNeil's AutoCare

Diagnostic Service

Fri, 07 Jun 2019 21:00:40 GMT

Diagnostic Service

Imagine waking up one morning with a stomachache. You pick up the phone, call the doctor’s office and say, “I’ve got a really bad tummy ache. How much will it cost to make me feel better?” Of course, you wouldn’t do that. You know that there could be a lot of reasons for your symptoms and that the doctor will have to examine you, ask some questions, and probably run some tests before she can tell you what’s wrong and give you treatment options.

This same scenario plays every day at auto repair facilities. When the cause of the concern isn’t obvious, the vehicle will need to undergo a diagnostic process. The typical vehicle has about 30,000 parts, including several networked computers and miles of wiring. Finding exactly what is wrong can be very complicated and take some time. The most experienced technicians at the shop are the ones that tackle the difficult diagnostic jobs. Once they have determined the cause of the problem, they can work out the plan for how to fix it and tell you how much it will cost.

When you look at it this way, it makes perfect sense that, 1) the Service Advisor cannot provide an estimate before the diagnosis is done, and 2) there is a charge for diagnostic services. You expect to pay for an office visit to the doctor and for any needed tests before you can be presented with your treatment options and costs; same goes for your vehicle.

We know it can be frustrating when something is wrong with your car and you aren’t sure what is going to be involved in getting it fixed. We’ll do everything we can to help you through the process; communicating with you at each step along the way. We have highly trained diagnostic technicians and state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment to uncover the cause of your problems. We use quality replacement parts to help make sure you stay on the road after the repair is done. That’s our prescription for automotive peace of mind.

Give us a call

McNeil's AutoCare

Winter Tires

Thu, 06 Jun 2019 16:06:19 GMT

Winter Tires

Let’s talk about winter tires. We’re not talking about all-season tires here, but dedicated winter tires.

Modern winter tires do a terrific job in a wide range of winter conditions. First, below 45 degrees Fahrenheit, regular tires become hard and inflexible. That means they don’t provide the road grip you need. Even if you don’t live somewhere with a lot of snow, but it still gets below 45 degrees in the winter, you will be safer with winter tires.

In addition, they are specifically designed to more effectively move snow and water. That’s the key to traction on ice, packed snow and wet roads. They use a micro-pore compound that allows the tire to bite into ice and snow. They also use wider grooves that run around the circumference of the tread to expel snow from the tire better. The lugs and grooves on winter tires have a special shape that throws the packed snow out of the tread as the tire turns. The tread is then open when it comes back in contact with the road and can provide good traction.

Winter tires also have a lot of sipes. Sipes are thin slits in the tread. The edges of the sipes grab ice and packed snow to provide tons of traction and to expel water and slush out of the tread. Winter tires have a rounder casing to cut into the snow’s surface.

The treads on regular summer tires can get packed with snow instead and become very slick. Winter tires offer 25% to 50% more traction than all-season tires. And when it comes to stopping power, all-season tires take 42% longer to stop than winter tires. Sometimes that’s the difference between getting home safely and spending the night in a snowbank.

Winter tires provide so much more traction than all-season or summer tires, that there’s a huge difference between the traction at the front and rear ends of the car if you only put winter tires on the drive wheels.

For example: if you take a corner on an icy road and the rear end starts to slide out, essentially the rear is trying to pass the front because it’s going faster. If you have high traction winter tires only on the front, they are going to be much more effective at transferring cornering grip and stopping power to the front wheels. This will cause the rear end to whip out even more.

That’s why tire manufactures instruct their dealers that they must install winter tires on the rear wheels as well whenever they put winter tires on the front end of any vehicle. It’s a major safety concern. It’s strongly recommended that winter tires be installed on all four wheels on rear wheel drive vehicles as well. The front tires do most of the steering and braking work – it only makes sense that you provide the front end with the best traction you can.

Many modern cars have traction control and anti-lock brakes so people may think that they don’t need winter tires. But you need traction to accelerate, steer and stop. The tires provide the traction so that the traction control and anti-lock brakes have something to work with.

Look for tires with the symbol of a mountain with a snowflake in it. This means the tire complies with the severe snow standard.

So, when the temperatures drop below 45 degrees, be sure you have four winter tires for maximum performance in snow, packed snow, ice, wet and dry roads. Your tire professional can help you find the right winter tire for your vehicle and driving needs.

Give us a call

McNeil's AutoCare

10665 S 700 E

Sandy, UT 84070

Fuel Saving Tip: Alignment

Thu, 09 May 2019 16:08:32 GMT

Fuel Saving Tip: Alignment

Imagine you’re up in the arctic on a dog sled. Your dog team is pulling straight and true. You can cover a lot of ground fast. Now imagine what would happen if one or two of the dogs wanted to go their own way and were pulling off to the side. That would slow you down. You would have to work harder to keep the sled going where you want it. The dogs are all working as hard as before, but you’re covering less ground for the same effort. You’re wasting kibble.

The same is true of your vehicle when the wheels are out of alignment. That wheel that’s pulling to the side is dragging down the rest of the car – so you push a little harder on the gas pedal to keep up your speed. You’re wasting gas.

So have your wheel alignment checked at least once a year. Get it checked right away if you feel the car pulling to one side. Sometimes we bump a curb or hit a pothole and knock our wheels out of alignment. An accident can take the wheels out of alignment as well.

So, make sure you’re tracking straight. You’ll save gas and your tires will last longer. Now, mush!

Give us a call

McNeil's AutoCare

10665 S 700 E

Sandy, UT 84070

Air Conditioning Service at McNeil's AutoCare

Wed, 08 May 2019 19:59:46 GMT

Air Conditioning Service at McNeil's AutoCare

Most people don’t service their air conditioning until after it fails. Maintaining your air conditioning system means that you always have enough refrigerant to properly do the job. Small leaks in the air conditioning system allow the refrigerant to escape and the system can’t cool the air as well.

Along with the refrigerant, a special oil circulates in the system. The oil lubricates air conditioning components and keeps the seals resilient. Low refrigerant and lubricating oil mean that the air conditioning parts will wear out prematurely, and we all know that air conditioning repairs can be costly.

Air conditioning service starts with a visual inspection of the components for signs of damage or leaks. The compressor is driven by a belt from the engine, most often the serpentine belt, so it’s inspected for cracks or wear.

The air conditioning compressor and other components are checked for proper operation. Then comes the leak test. If a leak is detected, often in a hose or connection, it’s repaired, and the system is retested. The technician will also perform a temperature drop test.

If needed, the old refrigerant is evacuated, and the system is recharged with clean, fresh refrigerant. A final test ensures that the air conditioner is working, and you’re on your way.

How often this should be done varies from vehicle to vehicle. Your owner’s manual will have the manufacturer’s recommendation and, of course, your service advisor can tell you. It’s typically every two years.

Give us a call

McNeil's AutoCare

Sandy Drivers Ask: Why is My Check Engine Light On?

Thu, 02 May 2019 20:08:27 GMT

Sandy Drivers Ask: Why is My Check Engine Light On?

The Check Engine Light strikes fear into the hearts of some and is totally ignored by just as many. Just what it means is a mystery to most of us.

First, if your check engine light is flashing, that means that something is wrong that could cause severe damage to the catalytic converter or other components. Get that taken care of right away. If your check engine light is flashing, you shouldn’t drive at highway speeds, tow or haul heavy loads. Take it easy all the way to the service center.

If the light is glowing steadily, you should keep an eye on it for a day or two. If the light doesn’t go off, schedule an appointment with your service advisor to get it checked out.

Some more information on how the Check Engine Light works may be informative. Most of your engine functions are controlled by a computer, not surprisingly, called an engine control computer. The computer can adjust many engine parameters for environmental conditions, engine condition and even the way you drive.

To make these adjustments, the computer relies on a network of sensors to provide data. The computer knows the proper operating range for each sensor. When a sensor reading is out of range the computer runs some tests and may turn on the Check Engine Light.

The computer will also try to adjust compensate for some readings. If it can do so, it’ll then turn off the Check Engine Light.

If the problem can’t be resolved, then the light will remain on and you should get your vehicle looked at.

Your service technician will plug a scanner into the on-board diagnostic port and read the trouble code stored in the computer. The trouble code will give the technician a starting place as he diagnoses the cause of the problem.

Give us a call

McNeil's AutoCare

Choosing the Right Washer Fluid

Mon, 29 Apr 2019 20:11:29 GMT

Choosing the Right Washer Fluid

During the colder weather months, drivers find themselves using more windshield washer fluid. Street surfaces are generally sloppier and can kick up snow, salt, mud and grime that require washer fluid to help out your windshield wipers.

You might be tempted just to pick up the cheapest blue fluid you can find, but sometimes that's not the wisest choice.

You probably already know that pure water isn’t a great idea. It can freeze in cold weather and potentially damage the lines in your vehicle that carry the fluid. Plus, spraying water on your windshield in freezing temperatures can result in a layer of blinding ice that will obstruct your view.

Different windshield washer fluids are made for different climates. Many will contain alcohol to prevent them from freezing. The label will usually tell you the lowest temperature at which they'll work properly. Some will also have a detergent in them to clean off the contaminants that dirty up your windshield. Still, others will contain a chemical that will leave fewer streaks.

Some windshield washer fluids are made to be diluted, others are pre-mixed and intended to be poured directly into the washer fluid reservoir and used as is.

The most important thing is to keep your windshield washer level up. Your service facility can make sure your vehicle is topped off with the right washer fluid.

A technician will also make sure your washer mechanism is working properly. It's a safety issue. You don't want to be caught out in the elements and unexpectedly find your washer fluid isn't available at your fingertips. It's no fun to drive blind any time, especially in extra-treacherous colder weather.

Your NAPA AutoCare Center is committed to your driving safety. We can check you wash fluid and wiper blades to make sure they are ready for both winter weather and summer bugs.

McNeil's AutoCare