Evans Automotive Blog

Does Cruise Control Save Gas

Tue, 01 Aug 2017 00:00:00 GMT

We are all familiar with cruise control, that setting on your steering wheel or dashboard that makes it easy to just set the speed you want to drive at and just monitor speed instead of actively using the pedal to adjust your speed.

But how does Cruise Control actually help you and save on gas and money?

Cruise Control Sets Speed

First, by setting the speed for it (for example while highway driving) at the officially posted speed limit, it can help you prevent from getting speeding tickets and other associated fees that may come with that. Fees such as potential traffic school, much higher insurance rates, etc. Of course, having no speeding tickets on your record can help earn you discounts on insurance and even lower rates for that auto insurance overall.

Cruise Control And Gas Mileage

Second, applying cruise control can help improve gas mileage. Statistics show that dropping your speed on the highway from 70 mph to 60 mph increases fuel efficiency by 17.2% overall.

When You Shouldn’t Use Cruise Control

However, there are definitely times when you shouldn’t use cruise control, specifically for safety reasons. Police recommend to not use cruise control under the following conditions:

On winding roads, heavy traffic or on a bridge or overpass
On icy roads or during downpours or hailstorms
On any kind of slippery road conditions or during or after the first rainstorm of the season.
Late night or when you are tired.

Particularly if you are slippery roads, there is the very real danger of hydroplaning. This would not be an appropriate time to use cruise control.

Also, when you are tired, the added engagement of actively using the gas pedal, this can tend to lead you to totally lose attention to what you are doing, resulting in an accident.

Adaptive Cruise Control

More recently, cars have been coming out with an updated version called adaptive cruise control, allowing you to set a recommended speed, but the system will adapt to traffic conditions, keeping you at a safe distance and speed.

If you have any questions about this or anything else to do with the care and maintenance of your car, contact us online or call us

Blowouts Hydroplaning And How To Reduce Risk

Thu, 01 Jun 2017 00:00:00 GMT

All it takes to disrupt your daily drive around Pensacola, FL is one badly-placed pothole or a little bit of water that sends you and your car sliding dangerously out of control. Blowouts and hydroplaning can be very scary ordeals for most drivers. Luckily, it also doesn’t take much to safely steer your vehicle to safety.

Reduce Your Speed

The last place you want to experience a blowout or hydroplaning is while traveling on the freeway at high speeds. Because our ordinary reactions are magnified during stress or tension, the risk of a rollover is much greater at increased speeds.

Avoid Overcompensating

Avoiding overcompensating is the secret to maintaining control of your vehicle – in other words, don’t jerk the steering wheel nor slam on the brakes. Instead, hold the steering wheel steady and just lift your foot off the gas. After your car regains traction and you regain control, ease your way back into your lane or to the shoulder of the road.

Keep Tires In Good Condition

There are simple things you can do to decrease the risk of hydroplaning or blowout. Replacing worn tires before they reach their wear bars is important. Driving on worn tires increases both the chance that water will build up between the rubber and road (therefore, increasing the chance of hydroplaning) and that the tire will blowout when it hits a pothole. Having tires with a deeper tread will improve traction and decrease hydroplaning; furthermore, a properly inflated tire is less likely to suffer a blowout.

Look For Water In The Roads

The risk of hydroplaning is greater any time there’s water on the road, and occurs more frequently on older roads with ruts and non-porous surfaces. Be very careful when you’re traveling in situations like these, and especially if traveling at speeds over 60 MPH. Slow down whenever possible, and always drive defensively.

The experienced technicians at Evans Automotive are always happy to inspect your tires to keep you safely on the road. Contact us online or call us.

Serpentine And Drive Belt Failure

Sat, 01 Apr 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Your vehicle is a complex system of belts, gears, electronics, and moving parts that must work together in order to keep you safely on the road. One important component is the serpentine belt, also known as a drive belt. This connects and powers key systems like the alternator, air conditioning, power steering, and cooling system. Once the engine is running, it doesn’t stop until you turn off your vehicle.

Maintaining your serpentine belts are incredibly important to the overall health of your car. If any of these belts fail, you are at serious risk of damaging vital systems, including the engine, alternator, air conditioner, and power steering pump. If you wait too long for a serpentine replacement, fan, or timing belt replacement, you’re facing expensive repairs.

If the serpentine or drive belt breaks, your vehicle may not be able to run at all. If it is connected to the water pump, a broken belt will prevent the cooling system from working properly and your engine could over heat.

The best way to avoid these problems is by having your vehicle inspected regularly. The experienced technicians at Evans Automotive Service Center can identify key signs of belt failure and replace the belts before the damage is detrimental.

Also, pay attention for key warning signs of a failing belt, including:

Squealing noise
Power steering not working
Air conditioning not working
Engine overheating
Cracks and wear on the belt

The serpentine belt is subject to extreme conditions in the engine. They are also made from rubber. While durable, they become worn in the high heat environment of your vehicle. Follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule to replace the drive belts in your vehicles on time.

To schedule an appointment with our Pensacola auto repair shop, request an appointment online or call our experts.

3 Tire Pressure Misconceptions

Wed, 01 Mar 2017 00:00:00 GMT

At our independent auto repair shop, our service advisors often recommend that our customers regularly check their tire pressure at home. This simple test can make a big difference for the lifespan of your vehicle’s tires! But there are a few common misconceptions:

Fill to the pressure listed on the tire itself. Tire brands can withstand different amounts of pressure, which is why the tire manufacturers list the maximum inflation pressure on the tire itself, often on the sidewall of the tire. However, this is NOT the correct pressure for your tire. Proper tire pressure is specified by the vehicle manufacturer. This is calculated to account for the weight and performance of the vehicle and tire requirements. Look for the correct inflation pressure on the vehicle door edge, door post, glove box, fuel door, or owner’s manual. When in doubt, call our auto repair shop. Our experienced technicians can help you look up the proper tire pressure for your vehicle.
Under-inflated tires mean more traction. When the tires have too little air, they will sit lower on the road. More surface area of the tire will be in contact with the road. This can provide more traction in certain conditions, like driving in fine sand, but can be dangerous on normal roads. The added surface contact creates excessive stresses and heat on the tire, which could lead to tire failure. This also shifts the pressure towards the sidewalls of the tire, where it does not have protective tread or structural integrity to withstand the pressure. Under-inflated tires leave you at increased risk for a blowout or flat tire on the road!
Over-inflated tires mean more efficiency. With too much air, your car drives like it’s wearing stilettos. Not only is this uncomfortable – you’ll feel every bump, crack, and imperfection in the road – but it can be dangerous. Over-inflated tires can cause handling and stopping problems. It also leads to uneven wear, which can significantly shorten the life of your tires. The manufacturers recommended pressure accounts for both comfort and efficiency. Proper inflation will give you the best performance for your vehicle.

If you have questions about the proper tire pressure for your vehicle, call our team of auto experts. We can help you find the appropriate tire pressure to optimize performance, comfort, and efficiency for your vehicle and maximize the life of your tires – saving you money over the life of the vehicle! To have your tires inspected, bring your vehicle to Evans Automotive Service Center in Pensacola or request an appointment online.

Brake Fluid: Fact And Friction

Wed, 01 Feb 2017 00:00:00 GMT

We all understand the need for brakes on our vehicles. Brakes, by definition, are a device for slowing or stopping a vehicle by the transfer of energy, usually by means of friction. Visualize Fred Flintstone putting his heels down and stopping his car. There was nothing between Fred and the road! Today’s vehicles have several layers between your feet and the road, but just wonder what it would feel like dragging your feet beneath the moving car, trying to reach the roadway but not quite getting there.

That’s why brake fluid is so important. It provides that vital link between the pressure you are applying with your feet (via the brake pedal) and the brakes themselves – that’s the friction. Without it, there’s no way for this pressure to make it to the brakes.

Do you feel that your brakes are not as responsive as they once were? If you suspect your brakes are starting to fail, please make an appointment at Evans Automotive Service Center by calling us. If it seems your brake fluid is dropping consistently, you may have a leak. A leak could result in a loss of hydraulic pressure and consequently cause a significant loss in braking ability. We are fortunate that modern cars have redundant hydraulic circuits to ensure against total hydraulic failure. Our trained technicians will check out your brakes and suggest the best solution based on the facts.

Here’s an important fact: Brake fluid is toxic and combustible, so trust the service technicians at Evans Automotive Service Center to properly handle the disposal of your old fluid and use the correct replacement fluid.

By trusting our service department at Evans Automotive Service Center, you can ask our team to check the brake fluid level at every oil change and replacing it as recommended by your car manufacturer – usually every 1-2 years. If you are a new or returning customer to our Pensacola auto repair shop, rest assured that we keep complete records of what we’ve done and when, including this all-important brake fluid, so that we can make recommendations to keep your vehicle safe on the roads in Florida.

To schedule your next brake service, inspection, or vehicle maintenance, request an appointment online.

Saving With “Cheap” Brakes

Tue, 03 Jan 2017 00:00:00 GMT

As we kick off a new year, you’ve probably already made some resolutions. The most popular resolutions are:

lose weight
get organized
spend less, save more.

But when pinching pennies puts you or your family at risk, it is never worth it.

If your brakes are making a shrieking sound, it might be time for new brakes. But don’t go just anywhere to get them replaced… watch out for bargain brake jobs.

“Cheap” brake jobs means two things: Cheap parts and lower quality technicians.

When we think about brakes, the first thing we think about are pads. Not all pads are created equal – for the most efficient braking, you need quality pads that are exactly the same size as the rotor to get as much braking power as possible.

But cheap brake pads often miss the mark. When they are the wrong size, they will wear down, rub against parts they shouldn’t touch, and prevent the pad from touching the rotor. This means you’ll need to replace that cheap part much sooner, spend more over time, and leave your family at risk when the brakes fail.

Brake pads are not the only critical component for stopping your car. Every time you have your brakes worked on, the technician should be inspecting the wheel cylinder, shoes, wheel bearings, and brake fluid.

An issue with one of these components that goes unnoticed by an inexperienced mechanic during a “cheap” brake job can cost hundreds of dollars and increase the chance of a critical failure while you are on the road.

When it comes to your family’s safety, brakes are not the place to cut corners to save money. If you notice a problem stopping your vehicle, have an experienced technician, like those at our auto repair shop in Pensacola, inspect your brakes right away.

Instead of sacrificing safety with cheap parts and inexperienced technicians, there are better ways to save money. Bring your vehicle to Evans Automotive Service Center. We will help you make economic decisions that don’t leave your family at risk. Give us a call to schedule your next appointment.

Protecting Your Vehicle From Theft

Thu, 01 Dec 2016 00:00:00 GMT

Every year, the number of car thefts goes down in the United States. In part, we owe this to car manufacturers for making vehicles more difficult to break into. However, credit also goes to car owners for being educated about and aware of car thieves.

Here are a few tips to help make sure you never have to deal with the stress of a stolen vehicle:

Lock your Doors, Roll up your Windows

Even if you’re just leaving your vehicle for a moment, make sure it is secure and take your keys with you. Thieves will look for easy ways to take off with a vehicle. By leaving your doors unlocked or your windows cracked, you’re giving them a simple way to do that.

Park in a Garage or a Well-Lit Area

Typically, thieves want to do their dirty work discreetly where they won’t be suspected. If people can observe a car in a lighted area, a thief is less likely to target it. It’s the vehicles left in dark lots or on the street that tend to get picked for theft.

Install a Car Alarm

Surprisingly, some newer vehicles don’t come standard-equipped with alarms, but having one installed is easy and fairly inexpensive. There are a few different types to choose from depending on the level of protection you’re seeking, including pressure-sensitive and motion-sensitive alarms.

Put in a Steering Wheel Lock

When your vehicle is parked, you could consider adding a steering wheel locking device. These apparatuses can only be removed with a key and prevent a thief from being able to steer the car. A thief is far less likely to take off with a car they can’t steer.

If you’re looking for advice or want more information on how to deter thieves, stop by or give us a call and speak with one of our ASE-Certified technicians about what you can do to keep your vehicle safe.

Prepare For Holiday Travel

Tue, 01 Nov 2016 00:00:00 GMT

The holiday season is here! As families across Florida are preparing for friendly gatherings, many will be travelling to spend the holidays with loved ones. If your holiday plans involve a road trip, be prepared so your trip is safe and worry free!

Pack for your Passengers. Having snacks and drinks available can help keep your passengers comfortable during longer drives. Make sure you bring CDs, music, or entertainment, but remember – the driver is in control! Don’t bring anything that would be a dangerous distraction to the driver.

Check your Emergency Kit. Road conditions are unpredictable this time of year, especially if you are traveling outside of the state. Make sure your vehicle is equipped with an emergency kit, including spare tire, jack, jumper cables, and emergency supplies.

Watch Road Conditions. Holidays mean the busiest roads in Pensacola and across the country. Check your favorite traffic app before you leave and adjust your route if needed. Avoiding crowded roads can help you stay safe, avoid congestion, and reach your destination faster.

Have your Vehicle Inspected. The best way to avoid car trouble is with a thorough inspection! Bring your vehicle into Evans Automotive and our experienced technicians will inspect your car and maintenance schedule. If your vehicle needs any services, we will review the options with you so you can make an educated decision and take care of the maintenance before you leave for your holiday travels.

Have a Plan B. Should an accident or weather affect your route, be prepared with an alternative option. Staying in a hotel for the night or adjusting your course can help you avoid stressful hours in traffic and keep your family safe.

As you plan your holiday travel, whether you’re driving across the country or to the airport, keep your family safe on the roads in Pensacola. What are your best tips for holiday travel? Share them on our Facebook page.

Before your next road trip, stop by Evans Automotive for a pre-trip inspection. Our experienced auto technicians will help your family prepare for the journey and make sure your vehicle is in good condition. Request an appointment online or call our auto repair shop in Pensacola.

Get The Most Out Of Your Tires

Thu, 01 Sep 2016 00:00:00 GMT

It is a new season, and that means time to inspect your tires and get the most out of them as you drive the roads of Florida.

If you drive your vehicle 12,000-14,000 miles per year like the average driver, the change of the season is a great reminder to inspect your tires. Every 3,000 miles tires should be inspected for proper inflation to keep you running smoothly and maximize fuel efficiency. Inflate to your vehicle manufacturer’s recommendation, not the maximum pressure allowed as stamped on the side of the tire. A monthly visual inspection and tire pressure check is recommended by most tire retailers.

At every 6,000-8,000 miles, tires need to be rotated. Rotation is critical for even tire wear and longevity. This is a great time to closely inspect each tire for uneven wear patterns or damage. Often, uneven wear can be corrected with an alignment, but could be the result of worn or damaged suspension. Stop by Evans Automotive Service Center for an alignment inspection to catch potential problems before they damage your tires.

Even with the best maintenance and low use, all tires eventually will wear out. According to the Rubber Manufacturers Association, there isn’t a way to date a tire for “expiration.” Factors such as heat, storage, and conditions of use can reduce the life expectancy of your tire dramatically. Much like an old rubber band that cracks and snaps as you stretch it, the rubber in your tires will age, as well. Tires can develop cracks, and the steel belts and treads can separate. Heat, poor inflation, and damage from curbs can accelerate this process. Some manufacturers believe, in best conditions, the rubber can last up to 10 years. This does not account for wear from use. This applies to your spare tire, as well.

How do I find when my tires were manufactured? All tires made after 2000 will have a four digit tire date code on the sidewall. The first two digits are the week it was made, and the last two numbers are the year. A tire stamped with 1410, would have been made in March of 2010.

Once you have five years of service on your tires, more frequent inspections are recommended. If you need assistance with tire service, rotations, and inspections, Evans Automotive Service Center will always be happy to assist to keep you rolling, safely. Call our auto repair shop in Pensacola to schedule your next appointment.

“Spongy” Brakes

Mon, 01 Aug 2016 00:00:00 GMT

Driving down the roads in Pensacola, when you approach a stop sign or traffic light, your foot will move to the brake pedal to slow down your car. But what happens when the brakes don’t react the way you expect?

Brake issues are one of the most serious problems affecting your vehicle. Do NOT ignore a warning sign of brake problems! If you are experiencing brake problems in your vehicle, call our shop to arrange a tow and a brake inspection.

One symptom of an issue with your brakes is “spongy” brakes. This means that when you apply the brakes, the pedal feels squishy or soft beneath your foot. Instead of firm and consistent resistance, the brake pedal reaction is unpredictable.

This is a serious condition – spongy brakes put you at increased risk for uncontrollable brakes on the road. If left unaddressed and ignored, spongy brakes can quickly cause a serious accident on the road.

Spongy brakes is often a symptom of a leak in the brake system. Brake fluid should be the only thing inside the brakes, controlling the hydraulics that allow the brakes to work. If there is a leak, air can get into the system.

Air in the brake system will affect the way the hydraulics works. The brakes should be a closed system. Have the brake fluids flushed and replaced periodically for optimum performance. Check the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule or call our expert technicians.

If you are experiencing spongy brakes, bring your vehicle into Evans Automotive Service Center right away. Catching issues early can save money and keep your family safe on the roads in Pensacola. An inspection at the first sign of a problem can make the difference between a simple repair and a serious accident.

Request an appointment for a brake inspection by calling.

Fluid Check – Simple Tip To Save Thousands!

Fri, 01 Jul 2016 00:00:00 GMT

The manual for your vehicle is filled with dates, mileage, and recommended maintenance to keep your vehicle running smoothly. But what happens if you put off that fluid flush until the next oil change?

If you’re lucky, skipping a fluid flush means reduced performance, extra wear and tear on your vehicle, and a few extra issues on your next inspection. If you’re unlucky, it means you’re at risk for a breakdown and expensive repairs. You are at even greater risk the longer you put off the cooling flush and maintenance.

M otor oil, brake fluid, transmission fluid, coolant… even windshield washer fluid! There are many types of fluids in your vehicle, and each needs to be replaced periodically. These fluids perform critical functions, like preventing your vehicle from overheating and providing pressure in the brake system to stop your vehicle.

As the fluids flow through the systems in your vehicle, they are subject to normal wear and tear from the heat of the engine, mechanical components they interact with, and contaminants like dirt and debris that get in the system.

Once the fluid becomes too old, it becomes viscous or thick like sludge. It can no longer effectively perform its job of lubricating the moving parts in your vehicle.

It also may become corrosive, leading to rust, oxidation, or mineral deposits which can cause further harm to your vehicle. When the fluid reaches this point, it must be flushed and replaced with new fluid to prevent damage.

The recommended maintenance intervals in your owner’s manual are carefully calculated to give your vehicle the optimal life. Manufacturers consider things like the specific parts in your vehicle, how the engine operates, and the type of fluids to create the maintenance schedule.

But even this schedule does not include every factor affecting the way fluid is used in your system. Other factors like how you drive, road conditions, and maintenance performed on your vehicle can affect the condition of the fluid and how frequently you need to replace it.

For best results, bring your vehicle to Evans Automotive Service Center in Pensacola for regular inspections. Our experienced and certified technicians will examine all of the fluids in your vehicle and let you know when it is time to replace them. An inspection as part of every oil change allows you to catch potential issues early, keep up with preventative maintenance, and save thousands by avoiding extensive damage and expensive repairs.

To schedule your next inspection, call our auto repair shop in Pensacola.

Signs Your Vehicle Is Overheating

Wed, 01 Jun 2016 00:00:00 GMT

Are you ready for summer? This season means rising temperatures in Pensacola, which can leave your vehicle at higher risk for overheating.

As you drive on especially hot days this summer, keep an eye out for these three warning signs that your vehicle is overheating:

Steam from under the hood
If your engine is running too hot, the temperature can cause the fluids in the engine to boil and evaporate. The coolant and water in the engine, also called radiator fluid, will turn to water vapor. This often looks more like smoke pouring from the hood of your car. At the first sign of vapor, pull over and turn off your engine to let your vehicle cool down.

Strange smells
The components in your vehicle are designed to withstand the high temperatures that occur during normal operation of your engine. If you start to smell something burning or melting, the engine may be overheating. Fluids often smell as they are heated to a boil or leak from the engine. If you notice a strange smell when your drive your vehicle, especially on hot summer days, bring your car to our auto shop in Pensacola for an inspection.

Temperature gauge
One clear sign of heat in the engine is the temperature gauge on your dashboard. If the needle spikes to the top or quickly rises about normal, pull over to make sure your engine isn’t overheating. If you suspect that the temperature gauge is not working properly, ask our technicians to look at it in your next inspection.
Hot summer days mean your vehicle is at increased risk for overheating. The best way to avoid overheating is with preventative maintenance.

Cooling system flushes ensure that the coolant in your engine is ready for the task ahead by removing spent, contaminated fluid and replacing it with new coolant to regulate the temperature in your engine.

Regular inspections will also help catch warning signs early and prevent problems that could result in an overheating engine leaving you stuck on the road.

To make sure your vehicle is ready for the hot summer months, stop by Evans Automotive Service Center in Pensacola! Our experienced technicians will thoroughly inspect your vehicle to help you make the best decisions to care for your vehicle and your family. Call us to request an appointment.

Planning For Summer Road Trips

Sun, 01 May 2016 00:00:00 GMT

Memorial Day marks the unofficial start of summer. While we still have a few weeks before the official summer solstice, we hope you get out and enjoy the beautiful weather.

One of our favorite aspects of summer is vacations, especially road trips! Whether you love cranking up the tunes on the radio or playing “I Spy” with your passengers, road trips are a great way to see more of our beautiful state of Florida and spend quality time with family.

But before you head out this summer, make sure your car is up for the trip! A pre-road trip inspection is a great way to ensure your vehicle is as ready for the travel as you are (and avoid roadside breakdowns).

Maintenance
Check your vehicle’s maintenance schedule. When was the last time you had an oil change? If you’ll be do for maintenance in the middle of the trip, you’ll be stuck searching for a new auto shop in an unfamiliar town. Call our experts to review your maintenance – we’ll help you know what tasks should be done before you embark and what car services can wait until you return.

Tires
Your tires may be fine on your daily commute, but will they be too worn to get you back home from your trip? Low tire tread leaves you at increased risk for a flat tire, especially on long drives. Swing by Evans Automotive Service Center, and we’ll quickly let you know the condition of your tires. We’ll also check your tire pressure to help you get the best fuel efficiency on the road.

Fuel System
Speaking of fuel efficiency, how is your vehicle performing? Small routine maintenance, like replacing spark plugs or cleaning fuel injectors, can have a big impact on the performance of your engine. Boost your fuel efficiency before your road trip, and you’ll save money at the gas pump!
Checking those three things before your next road trip can make a huge difference. To ensure the best results and keep your family safe on the road, stop by Evans Automotive Service Center for a pre-trip inspection. Our ASE-Certified technicians will perform a thorough inspection of your vehicle, including the key systems put to the test during long drives and road trips, to help you take care of any needed maintenance before your travel.

To schedule a pre-trip inspection, request an appointment or call.

Over Vs Under Inflated Tires

Fri, 01 Apr 2016 00:00:00 GMT

Keeping your tires at the proper pressure can go a long way to help improve fuel efficiency, comfort on the roads, and even the life of your tires… but how do you know the optimal tire pressure?

If your tires are under inflated, the lack of pressure inside the tire can create more stress on the side wall of the tire. Tires are designed so that the tread is on the part of the tire that is meant to hit the road. If there is not enough air in the tire, the sidewall may connect with the road as you drive or turn your wheels.

The side wall of the tire is often thinner than the outside of the tire. Without the tread to protect the side wall from dangers on the road, the side wall will become thin and worn quickly. Your vehicle is much more likely to get a flat tire from hazards on the road or a blow out when the tire becomes too thing.

Over inflating the tire can also be dangerous. If the tire is filled with too much air, the internal pressure puts the tire at risk. Again it affects the way the tire hits the road. Imagine walking on tip toes or in very high heels – that’s how over inflated tires feel for your vehicle. As you drive with over inflated tires you are likely to feel every bump in the road and have trouble steering and handling your vehicle.

The best tire pressure leaves you comfortable on the road, with proper handling. It also helps to improve fuel efficiency by reducing the resistance of the tire against the road. By ensuring that the tire hits the road in the correct inflation, you’ll also be able to prevent early or uneven wear and maximize the life of your tire!

But how do you know the correct inflation?

Don’t rely on the tire pressure listed on the tire itself – this indicates the maximum inflation pressure the tire is designed to handle, NOT the proper inflation for your vehicle.

The manufacturer of your vehicle will include the optimal tire pressure in the owner’s manual. You may also be able to find this information on the car door edge, door post, glove box, or fuel door.

If you’re not sure what the correct tire pressure is for your vehicle, bring it into Evans Automotive Repair or call us. Our team can help find the best tire pressure for your vehicle so you can maximize the life of your tires!

Spring Safety on Wet Roads

Tue, 01 Mar 2016 00:00:00 GMT

Spring means rain, puddles, slick roads and hydroplaning. Here are some tips to help you stay safely on the road, no matter what kind of weather we get this spring!

Proper tire tread depth is critical for being able to channel away water and maintain traction on slick roads. You can easily check tread depth at home if you have a quarter handy. Insert the quarter head down into the tread; if your tread covers the top of Washington’s head, you have at least 4/32”, enough to keep you safely gripping the roads.
Always drive with two hands on the wheel! Windy, slippery, rainy, wet conditions make defensive driving a must. Others may swerve into your lane or hydroplane into your path and being able to safely control your car is a critical part of keeping your family safe. For this same reason, keep plenty of distance between you and the can in front to make sure you can stop in plenty of time.
Brake carefully. If you’re travelling at high speeds and need to turn, brake in a straight line first, before beginning the turn. When turning, don’t jerk the wheel around to avoid slipping and sliding.
Finally, if you do start to hydroplane, don’t panic. Ease off the accelerator but don’t hit the brakes! Instead, gently steer in the direction you want the car to go, until your tires regain traction. (Avoid using cruise control in hydroplaning conditions, as it’s much harder to ease off the accelerator when you feel the car sliding out of the control).

The risk of hydroplaning goes down significantly by making sure your car has enough tread to grip the road. Call or stop by to have one of our ASE Certified technicians inspect your tires for proper tread depth. Call today.

Evans Automotive Facebook Like Giveaway!

Mon, 01 Feb 2016 00:00:00 GMT

Once per month, Evans Automotive will select one winner at random from the “likes” on our business Facebook page to receive a special prize!

In order to become eligible for this contest you must Like the Evans Automotive Facebook page. Each Page Like on Facebook counts as one entry to the monthly contest. Once you “Like” our business page, you will automatically be entered to win.

The contest will run for one month, from the 1st of the current month to the last day of the month (i.e. February 29, March 31, April 30, etc.)

The winner will be announced within 5 days of the end of the contest period, on the 5th of the month. Winners are selected from a random drawing of all eligible entrants each month. We will announce the winner in a Facebook post. The winner must respond and contact Evans Automotive (in a comment or message) to collect their prize.

The contest will occur monthly, with a new drawing on the 5th of every month. Current fans are also eligible to win. Winners are excluded from future drawings for the next 90 days.

These rules are subject to change at the discretion of Evans Automotive.

If you have questions about this contest, please contact Evans Automotive on our Facebook page.

Join the contest by visiting our Facebook page and clicking “Like.”

Official Rules for Social Media Contests and Sweepstakes

Unless specifically noted otherwise by Evans Automotive these terms and conditions shall serve as the official rules for any such Promotion conducted by Evans Automotive. Evans Automotive may terminate, extend, suspend, or alter any Promotion in its sole discretion.

ENTRY: No purchase necessary to participate or win. You must be a member of the social media site on which the giveaway is being conducted to participate in the giveaway. Only one prize per person, household, email address and/or username will be allowed in any 90 day period. Winners will be chosen from the pool of Participants at random, and will be announced on the respective Social Media Site. Winning Participants must message or email Evans Automotive Service Center to receive their prize.
ELIGIBILITY: To participate, you must be a legal US resident, 18 years of age or older at the time of entry.
WINNER SELECTION: Winners will be chosen in a random drawing. Winners will be notified within 5 business days following the conclusion of the Promotion via a Facebook post. If a winner does not respond to such notification within 5 business days and/or does not meet the stated eligibility requirements, such winner will be disqualified and Evans Automotive Service Center reserves the right to randomly select an alternate winner from the remaining eligible entries received for the applicable Promotion.
PRIZES: The number and value of prizes awarded in any Promotion will vary and will be set forth in the Promotion posting. Prizes are awarded “as is” with no warranty or guarantee, either express or implied. Prizes may not be substituted, transferred, or redeemed for cash.
PUBLICITY/RELEASE: Except where prohibited by law or regulation, by entering into a Promotion and/or accepting a prize you grant Evans Automotive Service Center permission to use your name, username/online alias in a social media post.
This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with Facebook.

Save Money At The Pump With The Right Gas

Sat, 02 Jan 2016 00:00:00 GMT

When you pull up to the gas station and glance at the prices, it can be tempting to reach for the lowest octane with the lowest price… but depending on your engine, this could save you a few cents at the pump and cost hundreds in engine damage down the road.

Why? Not all engines use fuel in the same way. High performance vehicles often put extra pressure on the fuel before it is ignited.

This is called compression. The octane rating (or number on the gas pump) for the fuel tells you how much it can be compressed before it will spontaneously ignite.

Premature detonation in the engine, also called knocking or pinging, can lower the performance and efficiency of your vehicle and cause serious engine damage.

Saving a few cents by choosing the cheapest gas may lead to thousands of dollars in engine repair. Never compromise by choosing a lower octane for your vehicle, and always use the grade your manufacturer recommends for your vehicle.

If you’re looking to save money at the pump, instead compare gas stations. GasBuddy is a app that can help you find the lowest prices near you, or try one of these 9 mobile apps that help you find cheap gas.

The best way to save at the pump is by staying up to date on your vehicle’s maintenance for the best gas mileage. Check your tire pressure, alignment, and rotation regularly so your vehicle travels efficiently on the roads in Pensacola. Keep up with the manufacturer maintenance schedule for your vehicle to stay with the preventative maintenance, like oil changes and fluid flushes.

These small steps can help keep your engine performing its best so your vehicle is efficient and gets the most miles per gallon. Regular inspections will also let you catch problems early before they drag down your mileage and lead to costly repairs. You’ll save money, use less gas, and get the most miles for every dollar!

To schedule your next appointment, call our team or stop by our shop at 11225 Lillian Hwy, Pensacola FL 32506.

Checking Your Headlights

Tue, 01 Dec 2015 00:00:00 GMT

Winter roads are dark – make sure you can see (and be seen) on the roads in Pensacola by checking your headlights.

For most drivers, headlights are one piece of your car that is taken for granted. You don’t have to think about your headlights unless the roads are dark. Modern cars often have automatic lights, so you don’t even need to flip a switch to see at night.

But what happens when your headlights are looking a little duller than usual? If you’re not checking your headlights as part of your car care routine, you may miss the warning signs and small issues that make it hard to see on dark winter roads.

First, check your bulbs. Once per month, ask a passenger to help you check your lights. Have one person sit in the car and turn on and off the various lights while the other walks around the vehicle to make sure they are all working. Headlights, foglights, taillights, brake lights, turn signals… each bulb is important for helping you stay safe on the roads, so make sure every light is working properly.

For a more frequent test, pull forward against a white wall or closed garage door. Turn on and off your headlights and check for their reflection against the surface. Look for the same level of brightness from both sides and for lights that aren’t working.

Next, check for dull headlights. The plastic coverings can become worn from years and miles on the roads. The high heat from the light combined with road debris means the plastic can become dull, foggy, and yellow over time. If your headlights aren’t shining as bright as they should, even with working bulbs, you may need to have your headlights cleaned or replaced.

Visibility is key on winter roads in Pensacola! Your vehicle’s headlights help you to see and be seen on dark roads. Our technicians check your headlights as part of every inspection. Stop by Evan’s Automotive Service Center for a winter safety check – call us or schedule an appointment online.

Flat Tires From Low Tire Pressure

Sun, 01 Nov 2015 00:00:00 GMT

“Check your tire pressure or you’ll get a flat!” These words of wisdom, in one form or another, are passed to drivers as the temperatures change in Pensacola. And it’s true – tire pressure matters, and no one wants a flat tire, but why are they related?

Under-inflated tires change the way the tire hits the road. When you look at a tire straight on, you see the tread. The tire is designed so that the tread hit the road straight on, carrying the weight of your vehicle in the center of the tire.

If you look at a tire from the side, you’ll notice that the edge is much smoother. The tread tapers off leaving a smooth sidewall on most tires. When there is too little air in the tire, part of the edge becomes exposed to the road as you drive.

All of the weight from the vehicle is shifted to the outside edge of the tire. Instead of carrying your vehicle smoothly on the center of the tire, the edge must hold the bulk of the weight.

This change not only affects the way your vehicle feels on the road – more cushion and less control – but can put you at risk for increased wear.

Extra weight at the edges of your tires can result in a rubbed or ripped flat. The thin side wall of your tire can become worn against the road quickly, rubbed down until it “pops” from the pressure. If your tire hits a sharp edge or piece of road debris, it could easily rip on the exposed edge.

The change of shape from the under-inflated tire can also speed up the wear and tear of your tires. When your tires are properly inflated, balanced, and aligned, all four tires will hit the road in the same way for consistent, uniform wear on the tire for the longest life.

Low tire pressure can shift the weight, and the wear, to the edges where bald patches can quickly form. This damage cannot be repaired. Tires that should have lasted much longer need to be replaced prematurely, a large cost over the years.

For the longest lasting and safest tires, check your tire pressure regularly. Give us a call if you have any questions about your vehicle or to schedule your next appointment.

Driving Safely

Tue, 15 Sep 2015 00:00:00 GMT

Vehicle safety is an important subject for most people that drive or own vehicles. There are a number of threats to your safety while driving. These threats can stem from a variety of factors such as internal issues with the car, accidents, and even burglary or any attempt of theft. Keeping that in mind, it is important to make sure all drivers and car owners are aware of the vehicle safety tips to ensure their car stays safe. Here is a list of a few vehicle safety tips that can be easily put into practice.

Make Sure Your Car Is Maintained

A car that is up to the mark in terms of maintenance is safer than a car that has faulty parts. When you know that your car is in pristine shape, you are likely to have a different drive feel and sense of safety. Make sure you are able to get your car’s engine, tires, brakes etc. through proper maintenance before you set for a ride in your vehicle, since a faulty engine can sometimes result in severe mishaps.

Stay On The Lookout For The Weather

The weather can be a driver’s greatest enemy. Torrential rains, storms, gusty and windy evening, or a foggy morning are all weather conditions that can compromise your vehicle’s safety. Make sure that before you set out for a drive, you have taken the weather conditions into perspective. Being one step ahead of the weather is always beneficial for your vehicle.

Get A Car Alarm Installed

If you car is an area that has a history of theft and muggings, it is best to take safety precautions to keep your car safe from that fate. The best way to that is to set an alarm in your car that can notify you in case of any funny activity in and around the car. Car alarms not only ensure that you know of your vehicle’s state, but the deterrence of a ringing alarm can ensure the car’s immediate safety as well.

Never Drive If You Are Not Present Minded

Driving a car when you are impaired one way or another can be one fatal mistake that can in extreme cases not only compromise your car’s safety but also your own. This is especially true if you are under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Under such a state, it is important that you never attempt to drive. Driving on the road is an exercise that requires the utmost attention as rash driving is not only dangerous for you but also for others on the road.

Make Sure You Keep A Tab On The Driving Rules

There is reason that driving rules have been developed, and it is important that you follow them. Rules for driving are there to ensure the safety of the drivers and their vehicles. Stopping at signals, not overtaking from the wrong side, etc. are examples of such rules.

Make Sure You Leave The Car Locked, The Keys And Valuable Items With You

This is a basic step that most people are likely to be aware of. The simplest way to make sure that the safety of your vehicle is maintained is to make sure that it is locked and its windows are closed. Leaving your key in the car or leaving valuable items displayed in the car is also an important thing to abstain from, since that is likely to invite an attempt of theft on the vehicle.

If you think you car needs maintenance, and is not performing up to the mark, bring your vehicle to Evans Automotive. With our expertise and licensed technicians, we’ll make sure your car leaves in perfect, safe condition.

Oil Changing Tips

Tue, 01 Sep 2015 00:00:00 GMT

Car retailers, manufacturers, and mechanics alike place considerable importance on the role of engine oil in your car. Most motorists believe with good reason that one of the simplest ways of prolonging the life of your vehicle is to change your car’s oil regularly. If you value your car enough, you’ll know the importance of keeping in pristine shape and efficient performance. This article lays down a few oil change tips that you can use to make sure you are able to get your car’s oil changed without hassle.

Read Up A Bit

To make sure you don’t end up making a mistake in changing your car’s oil, the most important thing to do is to take a look at the owner’s manual for the car. The manual is likely to contain details of the capacity of oil that the engine has and the viscosity levels of the oil to be added. Make sure that you are aware of the details of oil weight and type before you try your hand at this.

Start The Engine And Warm It Up

Oil change means a complete overhaul of the oil in the engine currently, and for that, all that oil needs to be drained before new oil is added. The best way to do that is to make sure that the engine is warmed up before you drain the oil. A hot engine warms the oil up and warm travel faster than cold, thick oil.

Be Neat And Clean

The main issue with an oil changing exercise is the effects of oil spill. When you are draining in old oil from the system or pouring down the new one, the oil is likely to spill, causing damage to the floor of your working area. Hence, to make sure you avoid this fate, it is important to use vinyl curtains to cover the floor and making sure the oil is restricted only to the curtains. Vinyl curtains tend to come in cheap and tend to cover large swathes of space, giving your driveway or garage floor protection against oil spills.

Use Correct Tools

While you may believe in your upper body strength, it is important that your car’s oil filter is not the place to show it off. Opening and closing of your car’s drain filter to drain the oil and stopping the new oil from leaking is a task best done using specially designed torque wrenches. The use of a torque wrench is particularly important when you are closing the drain to make sure the new oil doesn’t leak. While you may open the drain lug using your hands, tightening is unlikely to be as straight forward. A minor weakness in the tightening could lead to leakage of the engine oil from the car.

Always Have Reserves

The role of engine oil in the functioning of the car is integral. This means that the car’s performance and efficiency depends on the state of your engine oil. Keeping that in mind, it is imperative that you keep a reserve gallon or two of the exact type and weight of engine oil that is already in your car. This is likely to be important in cases where you may find that an unlikely leak or car problem has decreased the car’s engine oil. Running the car on low engine oil can be damaging for the car and keeping spares would help you negate that.

While changing engine oil using these tips may seem like an easy task, it is recommended that you come to us to get your engine oil changed, since we are the best judges of quality of oil in your car.

Troubleshooting Common Engine Issues

Tue, 01 Sep 2015 00:00:00 GMT

Each and every car that is traveling on a road is likely to be different to your car in terms of specifications, color, type, and brand. Not only are such cars different in terms of their consumption of gasoline and performance mechanisms, they also differ from one another in terms of engine type, engine specification, etc.

While most cars on the road have different engines to each other, most of them are likely to go through the same engine problems over the course of the car’s life. Engine problems tend to be the same in most cars owing to the similarity in their causes.

This blog highlights the leading causes of engine trouble common in most cars.

A Faulty Cooling System

A cooling system that isn’t up to the mark is one of the leading reasons for engine problems. Lack of effective cooling will allow the engine of the car to heat up thereby hampering engine performance. Faulty cooling systems are likely to contain faulty fan belts, and a low output cooling fan. Leaks of coolants fluids from the car can also lead to problems in the performance of an engine. The best way to avoid such problems is to make sure your car’s cooling systems is in pristine condition every time you plan to go on a ride.

Wear And Tear Or Damage To The Engine Parts

A good engine performance depends on all the parts in that engine working at full capacity. If you car’s engine has some faulty parts this will restrict the engine from reaching its full potential. Some parts of the engine that are more prone to wear and tear and damage are the ignition wires, caps, spark plugs and rotors. The presence of worn out components will create unnatural noises of the engine, heating up of the engine and unnecessary surges in the engine. The best way to prevent your engine running with faulty components is to get your car’s engine inspected and services regularly.

Variations In The Level Of Engine Oil

Engine oil has an important role to play not only in the running of the engine but also in terms of its lubrication and friction resistance. It is imperative that you use the correct type and viscosity of engine oil to make sure there are no hiccups in the running of the engine. If you change the type or amount of engine oil in the car, that is likely to show on the engine’s performance. Any unnatural change will be indicated by the car through a fault occurring in the engine.

Faulty Ignition

The car’s ignition system is the key to the running of the car, since ignition systems are what start your car’s engine in the first place. There are several parts that play an important role in ignition which include ignition wires, rotor ignition and spark plugs. Any fault in either would mean that the ignition would become faulty. A fault in the car’s tends to slow down the engine’s working speed. This would mean that the speed of the car and the engine’s responsive will be affected. To make sure that isn’t the case with your car the best way is to continually check the spark plugs, ignition rotors and wires for any hint of damage that might affect car performance.

If you think you car’s engine is not performing up to the mark. Bring your vehicle to us and we will use all our expertise and technical knowledge to make sure your car goes home in perfect condition.

Brake Rotor Resurfacing

Sat, 15 Aug 2015 00:00:00 GMT

If you have owned and driven your vehicle for any length of time, you are sure to have felt the difference in the brake service that you get from different shops. Traditionally, brake services had the servicemen machine the rotors instead of replacing them. Now however, breaks are regularly being replaced after almost every break service. This blog will outline the reasons why rotors are now being replaced instead of machined after every brake service.

Thinner Rotors

The thickness of the rotors in today’s vehicle brakes has considerably decreased. While this decrease in thickness is likely to benefit the car’s performance such as fuel economy, speed, and velocity, it makes it unable to be machined and reused. While this may be beneficial for the car’s performance, being too thin significantly impairs the rotors’ usefulness. The job of a brake rotor is to dissipate the heat from the braking which thicker rotors can do. Thinner rotors, however, start to melt under such heat and create an annoying vibration while braking.

Back when the rotors used in the cars were thicker, they were able to take the wear and tear of the brake pads even after having been machined. The thickness meant that the number of uses of the rotor increased. Yet the enhancement of the vehicles performance is regarded in a much higher sense than replacement of rotors, thus allowing for the replacement of such an essential car element.

Brake Pads made of Ceramic or Metallic Materials

Semi metallic or ceramic brake pads are being used by companies in the making of brake pads. This is a successful strategy since it allows for the pads to get an enhanced sense of strength and to make sure that the heat is conducted away from the pads. Despite this though, being made out of ceramic or semi metallic material, allows the brake pads to increase the wear and tear in rotors.

While they tend to dampen the noise of operations in addition to a variety of other benefits, the use of such new materials in the making of brake pads lessens the rotor life. In this case as well, it seems that the life span of the rotor has been sacrificed over the benefits of shorter braking distance, less dust, and heat generation and lower levels of pad wear and tear.

Recycled Rotors

Car and car part production companies are becoming environmentally responsible. Most companies are now making rotors from recycled materials. This allows for the rotors to be environmentally friendly and lighter on the car and the brake pads. However, the use of recycled metals makes them unable to handle heat and wear and tear since metals tend to weaken after one use. This means that while environmentally the new rotors are a good fit, this quality makes them weaker and more prone to replacements.

Having outlined all of the reason for rotor replacement, we hope that the next time you come to us for brake service you are satisfied and content with our service as always. If you think your car is having braking problems or makes funny movements or noises every time you press the brake, make sure you bring your car to us and we will make sure your car is in the perfect condition.

4 Signs Your Car Needs A Brake Repair

Wed, 15 Jul 2015 00:00:00 GMT

When you are going for a ride in your car, the one thing that serves as your safety guarantee is the car’s brakes. Therefore, it is essential that this part of the car be kept in pristine conditions at all times. To make sure the brakes in your car are working efficiently, you need to be on the lookout for the five ways your car tells you the brakes need a look in. The importance of brakes in a car means that they should be taken for repair immediately.

Remember, all that stands between you and a runaway, speeding, accident-prone car are proper-functioning brakes. Here is a list of five ways your vehicle tells you the brakes are in need of repair.

The Squeal Sound In Application

The design of the brakes means that when they are low on maintenance, they tend to give out squeal or screech sounds when applied. Your car’s brakes have a minor mechanism that creates a shrill noise which only stops once the brakes have been applied. Beware, since this is the very first sign of brake failure. If you are hearing such audible noise from your application of the brake, waste no time in taking your car to a mechanic.

Vibration When The Brakes Are Applied

Are you experiencing an unnecessary vibration in your car when you apply the brakes? If that’s the case, chances are your car is suffering from warped rotors. Rotors are the part in your car when the brakes directly apply to the wheels of the car to alter your car’s speed. Wrapped motors are a recurring issue in most car brakes and are likely to dampen the effectiveness of your vehicle’s brake system, leading to compromised security for your car and its passengers.

A Howl Or A Grind Each Time You Brake

Paying attention to the noise your car is making is one of the easiest ways of identifying the issues it is facing. When you are looking to apply brakes to slow your car down, howling or ground sounds may become audible. This is primarily an indication as to the damaged state of your car’s brake pads. The brake pads are the key to the brake system’s power and any compromise in that regard can significantly impair the car’s breaking ability. The only way to rectify such a problem is to take your car to a qualified mechanic and make sure they change the brake pads and the drums or rotors of the car.

A Soft Pedal

You’ll know that braking in a new car is often harder than in older cars since the brake pedals has a lot less to give when you step on it. This is a sign of a brake in top condition. As soon as your brake pedals start to give in a whole lot as your press on it, you should know that your car’s brake pads are in dire need of replacement. A soft pedal can be an indicator to a whole lot of brake system problems including a lack of brake fluids or air in the lines of the break.

Make sure you have duly noted these simple ways that your car will use to inform you of problems in the car’s brake system. If you come across any issues when checking your car’s brakes or want them to be repaired, come to us and we’ll make sure your car’s performance remains perfect.

4 Signs Of Transmission Trouble

Wed, 01 Jul 2015 00:00:00 GMT

Trying to diagnose problems with the car’s engine is an impossible task for most of us. Let us make this task easier. With a little attention to detail and some useful tips, the process will become a lot simpler. What is the first thing you do when your stomach starts to hurt? You think of the last meal that you ate, i.e. you try to find out the reason for the pain. This process is exactly what you should do with your car.

If you feel a change in the functioning of the car’s engine, it’s time to consider what the problem is and to try and get it fixed. This article will outline the five ways that you can judge a problem in your car’s engine transmission.

A Burning Smell

One of the easiest indicators of engine problems is the burning smell of transmission fluids. The smell of burning fluids is commonly an indicator of the overheating of the transmission unit. These fluids are tasked with not only keeping the moving part in the engine lubricated, but it is also to prevent flame or burn damage to the transmission unit.

Uncanny Noises in the Neutral State

One of the easiest ways to tell a car is having transmission problems is listening closely to the sounds that the car makes when shifting gears. In case of a noise that is out of the ordinary, the driver of the car will know that the transmission system of the car needs to be repaired. But would you expect any trouble if there were some noise even when the car is neutral? There are two types of problems that noises can highlight when the car is in a neutral gear. One is the lack of transmission fluid in the car, while the other more serious one is an indication of wear and tear that a part or parts of the engine have gone through.

Ghost Gear Shift

Irrespective of the car you drive, i.e. whether it is manual or automatic, the role of the gear is particularly important in controlling the speed of the car. When you are driving your vehicle and you shift gears whether manually or your car’s computer does it for you according to the RPM range, gears usually stay in their designated slots until changed further. What if the gear starts to slip and shift gear without control? This is a sign of your car’s engine transmission having a problem. While this problem is unlikely to be dangerous at first, you should take the car to the mechanic immediately to avoid problems in the long run.

Fluid Leak

A fluid leak is perhaps the easiest way to judge whether your car is having engine trouble or not. The importance of transmission fluid in your car has been highlighted above. Lack of fluid is likely to cause the car severe problems especially when trying to shift gears. The color of the automatic transmission fluid is bright red. Make sure that the transmission fluid leaking from the engine is of the same color or it could indicate the presence of a bigger problem with the engine. Always remember that the transmission fluid in your car is not like your car’s motor oil and therefore is not consumed by the car. Any drop in levels of the fluid will indicate a leak which should be addressed immediately.

Are you facing problems with your engine and transmission? If that is the case, call us to schedule a checkup for your vehicle.

4 Important Fluids That Keep Your Car Running

Tue, 16 Jun 2015 00:00:00 GMT

Have you ever visited the doctor due to dehydration? If you have, you’ll know the importance doctors give to the regular intake of fluids for your body. Our vehicles are no different. Among the wide range of maintenance that cars need, checking the fluids of a car is one of the easiest and cheapest ways to keep your car running smoothly. This blog will highlight the 4 fluids in your car that play a major role in making sure your car’s on-road performance is top drawer.

Engine Oil

If you are new to the world of car and car maintenance, it is possible that the only car fluid you’ve ever heard of is the engine oil. Most of the people tend to know this part of car maintenance and are likely to be aware of how to check the car’s engine oil.

Engine oil is integral to the performance of every car and most cars tend to have the same basic way of checking its engine oil. All you need to do is pop the hood, take a hold of the oil dipstick, pull it out, clean, and repeat.

Once you have done this, you’ll know the oil level in your car. Cars need to have an adequate amount of oil for smooth running, and if that’s not the case, it’s best you visit a qualified mechanic. Engine oil should be checked once a month.

Transmission Fluid

The transmission fluid in your car is what keeps the gears going strong. Checking of the transmission fluid is done in the same way as engine oil. Beware though, transmission fluid can only be checked when the car’s engine is running.

While your engine oil is used up gradually over time with the running of the car, transmission fluid is unlikely to ever be low. This fluid is part of a closed system and any decline in the level of the car’s transmission fluids warrants a visit to the mechanic. You should inspect your car’s transmission fluid every other month.

Coolant

The word coolant is pretty self explanatory for the job it does. Antifreeze aka coolants keep your car from heating up. If you feel your car is starting to overheat, chances are that your car is running low on coolant.

Coolants are inside your radiator and the best way to check their levels is to remove the radiator cap and look inside. Having said that, make sure you do this when the car is cool and the engine of the car isn’t running.

Inside the radiator, there is going to be a line which would indicate the ideal coolant levels. In case your coolant is low, visit a mechanic to make sure the correct coolant is refilled.

Brake Fluid

Irrespective of the speed of the car and the levels of torque, a proper working brake is integral to the passengers’ safety. Brake fluids keep your car’s brakes running smoothly. Brake fluids are enclosed in a closed system, which makes sure that they are seldom, if ever, low. Despite that, most car enthusiast would agree, it’s better to be safe than sorry. You should check your car’s brake fluids to make sure they are clean and aren’t going to hamper the car’s performance.

Make sure you have duly noted these simple but essential fluid checks of your car. If you come across any issues when checking your car’s fluids or want them to be refilled, come to us and we’ll make sure your car’s performance remains perfect.

3 Myths About Engine Oil

Mon, 01 Jun 2015 00:00:00 GMT

Anyone who owns a car will know what engine oil is. A car’s engine is heavily dependent on the presence of engine oil to enhance the car’s running. Engine oil works to make sure that each part of the engine is well lubricated and capable of fighting off rust corrosion. Most of us are likely to know a good deal about engine oil since it is one of the most common maintenance chores that come with owning a car. Yet, some of what you know about engine oil isn’t exactly true.

In this blog post, we will look to debunk a few myths that have crept into our knowledge of engine oil and if believed are likely to hurt the car as much as your pocket.

Myth 1 – In 10W-30 the W is an abbreviation of Weight

One of the primary factors that need to be taken into account when buying engine oil is the viscosity or the thickness of the oil. The viscosity of the engine helps in the running of the car – the lesser the viscosity the greater the ease with which it can move around in the engine room of your car. The best engine oil choice is likely to be one that is neither too thin that it slips, or to thick so that is has a lack of mobility. The viscosity of the engine oil is measured in two ways: using the SAE 30 and the 10W-30.

Often the W in the 10W is thought to mean the weight of the oil when it reality is a double grading way to measure the viscosity of the engine oil. 10W-30 is simply a grading method that not only indicates the viscosity of oil when it is hot but also highlights the viscosity of the engine oil when it is cold.

Myth 2 – When you Engine oil turns dark and dirty it needs to be changed

If you are passionate about keeping your car in perfect shape at all times, chances are that you check your car’s engine oil from time to time to have an update on the state of the oil. It is widely believed that when a car’s engine oil turns dark, it’s because of dirt, and it needs to be changed. This in fact is far from reality.

Increasingly, the modern cars require detergent oil to be used in them. Detergent oils work to not only lubricate the engine’s parts they also make sure that the sludge particles are suspended in the oil.

This is the primary reason that the oil will start to turn darker after a few running of the car, but that is in no way a cause for concern. In modern cars, the oil turning darker is a sign of it doing its work effectively and while it will reach its limit; it is unlikely to take place at such speed.

Myth 3 – You need to Change the Oil every 3000 miles

Changing the car’s engine oil after every 3000 miles is an old fact that has gradually with the advancements in oil technology turned into a myth. Back in the day, all car manufacturers recommended a change in the car’s oil after a running of 3000 miles, but things have changed. The advancements in the oil technology today have meant that engine oils could generally continue to perform in the engine for about 7500 miles. Engine oil needs to be changed according to the oil manual and not the advice of a salesman wanting you to sell your oil.

Make sure you are able to separate facts from fiction when it comes to engine oil. If you have any doubts with the performance or state of your car’s engine oil, give us a call and schedule an appointment. We’ll make sure your car’s performance remains perfect.

Best Interior Car Care Practices

Fri, 15 May 2015 00:00:00 GMT

As we previously wrote, there are a few reasons why you should keep your vehicle clean, both inside and out. A clean car (think your windshield or brake rotors) is a safer car. A clean car will hold better resale value. A clean car will help your enjoy your driving from point A to point B a little more. All great reasons. Now let’s get into how to properly detail your car. This blog article will focus on interior car care.

Most of us spend at least an hour each day inside of our car. We drive to and from work, to school, soccer practice, the grocery store, etc. Most of us probably also wish that the interior of our car was a bit cleaner. Well, here’s a few tips on how to keep each section of your interior in better shape. Each section will be broken into steps.

Vacuum Seats / Carpets / Doors / Dashboard

Make sure you have a wet/dry vac. Note: the more horsepower and ‘lift’ that vac has, the easier it will be to clean your interior. Your local hardware store is a good place to start if you need to find one. Here’s one we would recommend.
Make sure you have good brushes. Cleaning and vacuuming the interior of your car can be a pain without good brushes.
Start by vacuuming your dashboard and doors. Work top to bottom. With the vacuum hose in one hand, and brush in the other, go over all panels, crevices, and vents. If a surface need deeper cleaning, use an All Purpose Cleaner and brush to remove grime.
Once the doors and dashboard are thoroughly cleaned, it’s time to vacuum the seats and carpets.
Vacuum the seats first. Remember, always work from top to bottom. Make sure to get inside the creases of the seat. Use your brush (or toothbrush).
When vacuuming the floors, make sure to get between the center console and seats, as well as under the seats. If you have a stronger bristle brush, scrubbing the carpet loosens up trapped dirt or pet hair you couldn’t otherwise remove.

Protecting Vinyl / Leather / Plastic

Now that you have vacuumed the entire interior, it’s time to protect all surfaces. UV rays can be extremely harmful to all surfaces of a vehicle. Especially if the car is not garaged or under shade during the day.
We highly recommend using Meguiar’s Mirror Glaze professional line of products for interior protection. To protect the plastic and vinyl surfaces (dashboard, doors), simply apply the protectant with a cotton terry or microfiber towel. Make sure to apply evenly to prevent streaking.
The same process applies to protecting and conditioning your leather. Make sure to work the conditioner in thoroughly and evenly.

Once you have cleaned and protected your interior, the last step will be to clean your windows. Windows can be difficult to clean without causing streaking. Windows should only be cleaned with a clean microfiber and a quality window cleaning product. Apply a mist evenly on the window, and work the microfiber from the outside in. You may have to repeat this step a couple times if you are causing streaking.

Many people like to detail their vehicle themselves. For those who don’t, Evans Auto offers full car wash and detailing services. Feel free to call us to learn more or schedule an appointment.

Best Exterior Car Care Practices

Fri, 01 May 2015 00:00:00 GMT

Rinse the wheels and tires. A hose is fine, a pressure washer is better. Optimum pressure is around 2,200-2,800 PSI. More importantly, keep a distance of at least 18 inches. This will prevent the pressure of the water chipping the surface.
Wash the wheel and tire with a scrub brush. Using a tool that can get deeper into the wheel well is best. We recommend something like this.
Rinse. Dry immediately if in direct sunlight.
Protect the tire with a non-greasy product.

Washing Your Vehicle

If possible, wash and dry your vehicle in the shade and not in direct sunlight. This will make your job much easier, and prevent water spots on the paint and windows.
Thoroughly rinse the vehicle, starting from the top and working to the bottom.
Using a gentle sponge (the $1 sponges at your local hardware store work best) and a clean bucket of water and car wash soap, start by washing one panel at a time, roof first.
Wash each panel, then thoroughly rinse before going to the next. Always work from top to bottom.
Once all panels are thoroughly washed, dry with a microfiber drying towel. We recommend microfiber drying towels as they are more gentle on the paint. We do not recommend microfiber towels for washing, as they trap dirt more easily than generic sponges.

Once you have washed and dried your vehicle, we recommend applying a spray wax for basic UV protectant. Many people like to wash their vehicle themselves. For those who don’t, Evans Auto offers full car wash and detailing services. Feel free to call us to learn more or schedule an appointment.

How To Keep Your Car Clean

Wed, 15 Apr 2015 00:00:00 GMT

* This is the 1st blog in a series we’ll be doing. For those who are wanting to learn more about keeping their vehicle in pristine condition, make sure to follow our blog!*

Why You Need to Keep Your Vehicle Clean

As you know, there are many reasons to keep your car in pristine condition.

More Enjoyable – Driving Experience On a practical level, having a clean car is simply more enjoyable to drive on a daily basis.
Better Resale Value – On a financial level, having a clean car will help your resale value when it comes time to sell it. And no, just having it detailed right before it comes time to sell won’t help if your paint is oxidized due to neglect.
Safety – Last, having a clean car is safer (think your windshield during a storm).

Through the next couple blogs, we’ll get into the details (pun intended) on how to maintain your vehicle, both inside and out. For you do-it- yourselfers, this will be a help. For those who are not, Evans Automotive offers professional detailing and car washing services. We do everything from exterior hand washing, to interior detailing, to headlight restoration. So next time you need to have your oil changed, or your vehicle serviced by us, ask us about our detailing services.

Learn more about our auto detailing services here.

Automatic Or Manual Transmission: Which Is Better?

Wed, 01 Apr 2015 00:00:00 GMT

Let’s start off by making one thing clear: there is no definitive ‘correct’ answer to this near 10 year old question. I say 10 years old, because this question has only been a point of automotive debate since the development of more technically advanced automatic transmissions like the dual clutch (semi-auto) transmission. Before then, among auto enthusiasts, it was generally accepted that manual transmissions were superior for a multitude of reasons. Today, things have changed. Well, somewhat. Most people will be familiar with what differentiates a manual and automatic transmission. But for those who aren’t, let’s cover a couple basics. How A Manual Transmission works Manual transmissions work based on vehicle operator inputs: a clutch and gear selector. With this type of transmission, the operator determines which gear to select, and when to select or change it. When the clutch pedal is depressed, the clutch disengages from the engine, allowing a new gear to be selected. Once a new gear is selected, the clutch pedal is released and the clutch is engaged. Watch this short video to see how a manual transmission functions. How An Automatic Transmission works Automatic transmissions are, just as the name suggests, automatic and not reliant on user inputs (aside from the gas pedal). As you will see in the video below, the internals of an automatic transmission are much different than those of a manual transmission. Instead of one clutch, you have multiple clutches. Watch the video below to get a visual understanding of how an automatic transmission works:

So Which Is Better?

The answer depends on a number of factors. Let’s look at a few:

Reliability – in most cases, a manual transmission will be more reliable than an automatic transmission. There are fewer, less complex moving parts.

Gas mileage – This can be argued either way. However, most modern vehicles with automatic transmissions will be more economic than manuals.

Performance – This also can be argued either way. Race cars and performance cars up to a decade or so ago used primarily manual transmissions. Today, virtually all high performance cars use dual clutch transmissions, which shift faster than any human can.

Fun Factor – If you want a fun, engaging car, get a manual!

Some Advice For Buying A Used Car

Sun, 15 Mar 2015 00:00:00 GMT

There’s a plethora of used car buying advice on the internet. However, as a mechanic shop we may be able to give a clearer picture in terms of ongoing maintenance for that new car your looking at. We’ll also summarize the other critical factors need to be considers before making your choice and purchase.

Many people like to purchase a car new from the dealership, or manufacturer. It’s great because you can choose your options, color, etc. But as most of us know, the minute you drive that vehicle off the dealership lot, you’re taking a massive hit in value. Why? Mainly because the car is now officially a used vehicle. The person who will buy the car from you, regardless of mileage or age, will now be the second owner. On the other hand, this means that 2nd owners can usually save big, even on new cars.

Ongoing maintenance on a used car

Is the car still under manufacture warranty? If so, great! Most new vehicles carry decent warranties. These warranties usually apply regardless of whether or not the vehicle has been resold. The only downside is that vehicles that are still under warranty usually demand a much higher price.
Have you researched the reviews and tests on your vehicle? There are many makes and models that are simply bad cars. Even between years of the same car. To research the specific car your looking at, start at Consumer Reports and Edmunds. These resources will help paint an accurate picture of the reliability you can expect with your car.
What will the expected cost of ongoing maintenance be? On consumer reports, you can even price out the expected maintenance costs. This is perhaps one of the most useful tools we have come across, and that you can use, when buying a used car.

Other factors to consider when buying a used car

First and foremost, get a Carfax report. Most used cars have clean titles (no previous wrecks, flooding, theft, etc). However, many car lots will sell cars that do not have clean titles. This matters because cars without clean titles fetch a much lower resale value. It’s best to stay away from any vehicle that does not have a clean title.
Most buyers are fully able to visually inspect a car. However, it’s also important to take it to a certified mechanic for a mechanical inspection as well. This alone could save you thousands of dollars in costly repairs down the road.
Do your research. Do your due diligence by taking your possible new car to a certified mechanic before purchasing. And most of all, enjoy your new car!

What Causes Your A/C To Leak?

Sun, 01 Mar 2015 00:00:00 GMT

Summer is just around the corner. Here in Florida, it’s essentially here already. Most of us are cranking our AC on full blast as soon as we get into our car. This is also the season where some of us are reminded that our AC doesn’t blow too cold or it’s leaking, and we need to go “get it fixed.” Let’s look at what causes your Ac to leak, or to not blow cold.

Your AC system is made up of many different parts, the evaporator core(s) being a primary component. The evaporator core is what causes hot air to cool, and become the cold air you feel when you dial your AC into the “blue zone”. The core uses Freon to make this happen. When the Freon passes through the evaporator core, it turns into rapidly cooling gas, which in turn gives you the cold air you feel in coming through your vents. A side affect of this is the condensation you see leaking from under your car. Think of it like putting a glass of cold water out on a hot day. Condensation builds up on the outside of the glass due to the rapid temperature change of the liquid inside of the glass. So this is what you see leaking under your car on a hot day, when you have the AC running on full blast.

Evaporator Core Replacement

We recently had to replace an evaporator core in a customer’s vehicle. As you can see, in order to do this, the entire dashboard has to be removed, and then reinstalled. Talk about a job!

If your vehicle is having a bit of AC trouble, feel free to come by Evans Automotive for an inspection.

Celebrating 13 Years!

Sun, 15 Feb 2015 00:00:00 GMT

It’s hard to believe that Evans Automotive has been in business for 13 years now. It’s also humbling. We’re especially thankful for all of our loyal customers that have helped us get to where we are today. What is a business apart from its customers?

Our vision and goal from the beginning was to be the best full service auto mechanic shop in the Pensacola/Perdido area. We can honestly say that we feel we have achieved that vision in the past 13 years. Our customers think so.

If you haven’t yet experienced Evans Auto, stop in next time your need to have your vehicle serviced or repaired. We promise you’ll have a better experience than anywhere else. We service and have extensive experience with every type of vehicle. From classics to hybrids, and everything in between. We back up our work with a full 2 year / 24,000 mile warranty. We take care of your vehicle maintenance scheduling. We even provide a shuttle service for the local area. So come by!

And to all of our loyal customers, thank you! We wouldn’t be here 13 years later without you!

Extending The Life Of Your Transmission

Sun, 01 Feb 2015 00:00:00 GMT

The transmission is one of the most expensive components of a vehicle. Really, apart from the engine, replacing a transmission, manual or automatic, can be the most costly repair you can have done on your vehicle. That said, it is so important to maintain and take proper care of your transmission. Let’s talk about the few different ways you can prevent having to replace or repair your transmission. But first, for those who might not know, what exactly is a transmission?

What is a transmission?

By definition, a transmission is the mechanism by which power is transmitted from an engine to the wheels of a motor vehicle.

In simpler terms, your vehicle’s transmission is what connects your engine to your tires. You can have a 500hp engine, and you can have high quality tires, but without a transmission, you’re not getting anywhere. Your engine has what’s called a crankshaft, which is spun by the running engine. Your transmission is connected to the engine by the crankshaft. It is also connected to the wheels by what called a differential. It’s what delivers the actual engine power to the wheels. Again, without a transmission, your car would go nowhere.

How to Keep Your Transmission in Good Health

Don’t drive your vehicle too hard. Yes, driving easy is the best way to prevent transmission failure, and also prevent many car related issues in general. Why? The main reasons are component stress and heat. Heat is the enemy of engines, and most things mechanical. They cause quicker wear. When you drive your vehicle hard, you increase temperatures everywhere. On the tires, in the engine, and transmission. This causes premature wear, quickly.

Regularly change your transmission fluid. We recommend changing your transmission fluid every year. Your transmission fluid can leak over time, as well as break down primarily due to heat. Just like maintaining your engine required regular oil change, your transmission requires the same, just at less frequent intervals.

If you would like to have your transmission serviced or just inspected, please give us a call. We are happy to help!

Why You Should Use Only One Auto Repair Shop For Your Vehicle

Thu, 15 Jan 2015 00:00:00 GMT

Let’s be honest, most of us tend to choose an auto repair shop based on one of two criteria: price and location convenience. If we have a major issue with our vehicle, or just need a simple oil change, we’ll call around until we find the best price. Alternatively, we’ll just stop at the closest auto-repair shop at the moment.

As we’ve discussed in a previous blog post, choosing an auto-mechanic strictly based on cost can end up costing you much more than you anticipated. If a job is not done right the first time, especially in relation to vehicle maintenance, the results can be detrimental. The same can be applied to choosing to have your oil changed based on the shop located closest to you at that moment. Don’t trust just anyone with your vehicle!

What are the benefits of using just one auto repair shop?

When the time comes to sell your vehicle, being able to have a full, complete repair and maintenance record is important to potential buyers. They will want to know that there are no “stories” with your vehicle. Wouldn’t you want the same if you were buying a used car?
Having one shop perform all maintenance and repairs for your vehicle makes it easy to keep your records all in one place.
Last, having one auto-repair shop keeping track of your vehicle can give you peace of mind that you are taken care of. At any time, you will know exactly what needs to be done to your vehicle, and when. You’ll be on a comprehensive maintenance program.

Why you should choose Evans Automotive to be your auto shop?

Tons of online reviews from happy and satisfied customers
Angies List 2013 Super Service Award
Winner of the 2014 BBB Torch Award for Marketplace Ethics
We Are an Approved AAA Auto Repair Facility
ASE “Blue Seal Of Excellence” Shop
We Have a 24 Month / 24,000 Mile Warranty For Parts and Labor
We Accept Most Extended Warranty Contracts
Discounts for Active Military & AAA
We Accept Wright Express & All Major Credit Cards
Local Shuttle Service in the Pensacola/Lillian Area
We Work On Foreign and Domestic Vehicles

For most people, the only investment greater than their vehicles is their home. So choosing the right mechanic for such a costly investment is critical. Otherwise, it may cost you. A lot.

Brake Maintenance & Safety

Fri, 02 Jan 2015 00:00:00 GMT

Brakes and tires are the two most critical factors when it comes to road safety. Tires are the only contact point your vehicle has with the road. And brakes, well they are self-explanatory. If your brakes fail while driving, you are in serious trouble. In a recent blog post, we took an in-depth look at tire safety and maintenance. Let’s take the same look at brake safety and maintenance.

How do you know when your brakes need to be looked at or changed?

Carecare.org gives a great list of things you need to look and listen for when it comes to your brakes.

Your brake light on your dashboard – this may seem obvious, but many times your vehicle will let you know if there is a possible issue with your brakes. This is especially common for newer vehicles.
Vehicle puling to one side – if your car is pulling to one side while braking, you know you need to have your brakes checked out. On a side note, this will also cause unbalanced rotor wear, resulting in a higher repair bill. So don’t put it off.
Low brake pedal while braking – if you stomp on your brakes and it takes a while for the pedal to engage, chances are you need to replace your brake pads.
Hard brake pedal while braking – If you have to press your brake pedal with a lot of pressure to come to a stop, you may need to have your pads changed.
Noises while braking – If you hear any noises while you are braking, in most cases it is not normal. There are certain types of brake pads that cause noise, but most do not.
Vibrations while braking – if you feel your car vibrating while you are braking, you most likely need to have your brake rotors resurfaced or replaced.

What are the risks if I neglect to have my brakes changed?

Possible brake failure when driving your vehicle. This is the worst possible situation.
Uneven brake wear, which can cause misalignment, which will result on a higher repair bill.
Wearing down of the brake rotor, which will result in having to resurface or replace the rotor as well. This also will result in a higher repair bill.
Bottom line, make sure you are taking care of your brakes. If you choose Evans Automotive for your brake maintenance and repair, we will make sure you car is being taken care of correctly and affordably. Give us a call or bring your vehicle in to have a full brake inspection or service.

The Dangers Of Under-Inflated Tires

Mon, 15 Dec 2014 00:00:00 GMT

When winter weather begins to set in, it’s common to see a warning light appear on your dashboard, something like what you see here.

This light is a tire pressure warning.

The reason you often see it during the winter is because cold weather causes the air in your tires to contract, thereby decreases the pressure. To many of us that may seem like a trivial warning. However, that couldn’t be further from the truth.

Low tire pressure is dangerous and costly.

According to AAA: “Under-inflated tires contribute to more than 600 fatalities and 33,000 injuries annually, according to National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates, and they waste more than 1 billion gallons of gasoline each year, based on U.S. Department of Energy estimates.” Most of us would be shocked by those statistics.

So now you are wondering, how is that actually possible? According to the NHTSA, under-inflated tires are more likely to run the risk of overheating, which leads to tire failure. It can also affect the handling of your vehicle. According to the tire study done by the NHTSA in 2009, SUVs with low tire pressure were over 20% more likely to rollover during the pre-crash phase of trying to avoid the oncoming accident. SUVs with low tire pressure rolled over 45% of the time during the pre-crash phase, and on 25% of the time with properly inflated tires.

Low pressure in your tires also affects tire tread life, which means you’ll be spending more money to replace your tires more often. Low tire pressure also kills your gas mileage. None of us want to waste money at the pump just because our tires have low pressure.

At Evans Automotive, we offer comprehensive tire services and tire sales. We offer new tire sales at great prices, wheel alignments, tire rotations, and tire balancing. We’re a one stop shop for your tire needs. If you are looking to have an alignment done to your vehicle, or needing to put on a full new set of tires, please give us a call. You won’t find a better and more qualified auto mechanic shop in the city!

Choosing The Right Auto Mechanic

Mon, 01 Dec 2014 00:00:00 GMT

It’s often our first instinct to choose a product or service primarily based on cost. We’ve all done it, and most of us have paid the price for it. For some things in life, the consequence of making a price-based purchase is very little. If you buy a cheap pair of shoes, the consequence is usually wearing an uncomfortable pair of shoes, and having to replace the shoes rather quickly! With other things in life, the consequences can be much more costly.

For example, last week, our shop had to do a complete engine swap on a Hyundai Santa Fe. A completely new engine. The reason? The customer’s previous shop was repairing this Santa Fe and left the radiator hose loose. This caused all of the engine coolant to drain from the engine. By the time the customer realized something was wrong, it was too late! The engine was blown.

When you are shopping auto repair / mechanic centers, make sure that you choose one that has experience, proper qualifications, and high customer satisfaction. With Evans Automotive, you’ll get all three.

Here’s a short list of what makes Evans stand out from the rest:

Tons of online reviews from happy and satisfied customers
Angies List 2013 Super Service Award
Winner of the 2014 BBB Torch Award for Marketplace Ethics
We Are an Approved AAA Auto Repair Facility
ASE “Blue Seal Of Excellence” Shop
We Have a 24 Month / 24,000 Mile Warranty For Parts and Labor
We Accept Most Extended Warranty Contracts
Discounts for Active Military & AAA
We Accept Wright Express & All Major Credit Cards
Local Shuttle Service in the Pensacola/Lillian Area
We Work On Foreign and Domestic Vehicles

For most people, the only investment greater than their vehicles is their home. So choosing the right mechanic for such a costly investment is critical. Otherwise, it may cost you. A lot.

Getting Ready For Your Next Road Trip!

Sat, 15 Nov 2014 00:00:00 GMT

There’s nothing better than a great, memorable road trip. There’s equally nothing worse than your perfect road trip getting ruined by being stuck on the side of the interstate with car issues. Let’s look at the best ways to prevent being stranded on the side of the road on your upcoming road trip.

Tires
Make sure your tires have even wear and plenty of tread. You don’t want to have to deal with a dangerous blowout on the interstate. Also make sure than you have equal pressure in the tires. If you’re overdue, now might be a good time to have your tires rotated.

Oil
It’s always best to get a fresh oil change before a long trip. Your car will run smoother, and you decrease the chance of anything happening to your engine during your trip.

Fluid Levels
Check your brake and power steering fluids, as well as your coolant. It’s always a good idea to check your windshield wiper fluid as well.

Battery
Ensure that you won’t have any battery trouble during your trip. Simply open the hood, and check for loose connections or acid buildup.

Brakes
One of the most important things you can do is make sure your brakes are good to go. If you have to mash the brake pedal for your brakes to engage, or you feel grinding when pressing the pedal, change your brakes. If you feel any wobble when you are breaking from higher speeds, your rotors may need to be changed as well.

Use A Windshield Rain Guard
Make your trip less stressful, and a bit safer, by using a rain-repellent for your windshield and windows. Rain-X is always a good product, but there are other similar products available.

We would be happy to service your vehicle before you venture out on your family road trip. We’ll make sure your vehicle is good to go. Email us or give us a call.

What Does It Really Cost To Maintain Your Car?

Sat, 01 Nov 2014 00:00:00 GMT

If you are looking at buying a new vehicle or trading in your current vehicle, it can be difficult to factor in hard maintenance cost figures. Depending on the vehicle you have or are considering purchasing, regular maintenance frequency can vary, as well as the overall costs. Here, we’ve put together a couple reliable resources for you to accurately determine what you can expect to pay to maintain the vehicle you have or are considering.

Get Your Specific Vehicle’s Maintenance Estimates

No website can offer 100% accuracy, but Edmunds.com has come pretty close. The link below will direct you to input your vehicle make/model and mileage. It will then show you at what mileage intervals your vehicle needs to be serviced, and the general estimate per service.

Find Our What Technical Service Bulletins Or Recalls Have Been Issued For Your Vehicle

Manufacturers commonly issue recalls or TSB’s for most vehicles. Many times, they are small issues that will not hinder the safety or performance of the vehicle. Other times, they can be dangerous if not heeded.

Just a few years ago, Toyota/Lexus issued a massive recall on many vehicle models due to an issue with the gas pedal. Drivers found their cars accelerating on their own, unable to stop. In the end, four people died from this. .

Manufacturer issues with vehicles are usually not this dire. The Toyota/Lexus incident is a rare one. However, it’s always best to find out if there are any existing, known issues with your particular make/model/year. Make sure that your vehicle does not have any outstanding TSB’s or recalls. If it does, simply take your vehicle to a local dealer, and they will have to fix it for you.

Here is a helpful link: Technical Service Bulletins and Recalls .

When Should I Rotate My Tires?

Wed, 15 Oct 2014 00:00:00 GMT

Tires are the only part of your vehicle that has actual contact with a road surface. Bearing this in mind, it is important to keep your tires performing at their best, during all seasons of the year. Proper tire maintenance is the first step in maintaining a safe vehicle.

So Why Do I Even Need To Rotate My Tires?

Rotating tires is necessary, as each tire will wear unevenly over time die to weight distribution, camber and suspension settings, and driving conditions. The cost of a quality set of tires can be $600+. Not only is it not safe to not regularly rotate your tires, but you are also needlessly wasting money if you don’t. Quite a bit of money. Generally speaking, it is best to rotate your tires about every 7,500 miles, or twice a year. If you are driving a high performance vehicle, or a vehicle with non-OEM tires, you will want to rotate your tires more frequently. If you are unsure when you last had your tires rotated, please stop by our shop for an inspection or give us a call. We offer very affordable tires changing and rotation service. And if your tires need to be replaced, we offer competitively priced tires as well.

When Are Cloudy Headlights Not Safe? Can My Headlights Be Restored?

Wed, 01 Oct 2014 00:00:00 GMT

If your headlights are yellowing or becoming cloudy, you should consider having your headlights restored to their original condition. Restoring your vehicle’s headlights improves not only its appearance, but it’s safety as well!

What Causes Headlights To Become Cloudy And Yellow?

Have you ever wondered why, typically, only your headlights will fade and yellow over time, and not your taillights? That’s because in many cars, the taillights are made out of acrylic, whereas the headlights are made out of polycarbonate. Over time, any light made out of polycarbonate plastic will start to oxidize, which will make it dull and yellow. The main cause of this is UV rays from the sun. Things like rain, car wash chemicals, dirt, etc. can also contribute, as they can scratch the surface and strip protective UV-blocking compounds from the plastic.

Is It Safe To Drive With Cloudy Headlights?

If your headlights are just beginning to become cloudy, very likely it is completely safe to drive. However, over time this cloudiness can increase, and result in lowered brightness of your headlights. And any decreased visibility during nighttime driving (or driving in stormy conditions) is a serious safety concern!

What Can Be Done To Restore My Headlights?

Evans Automotive offers headlight restoration services at our shop in Pensacola, Florida, off Lillian Hwy. Depending on the level of oxidation, we will sand and polish your headlights using special equipment and compounds. Our process removes cloudiness, yellowing and even scratches! In most cases your headlights will look brand new! On top of that, we finish by applying a protective layer to the headlights to block UV rays, which helps to slow the oxidation process, preventing them from turning yellow or becoming cloudy again.

Many of our customers come in to have an oil change, and elect to have their headlights restored as well. It is a fairly simple, quick and inexpensive service, and can really make a difference in your car’s appearance, and more importantly, its safety!

Tired Of Looking At Your Check Engine Light?

Mon, 15 Sep 2014 00:00:00 GMT

We all hate it when it comes on: the dreaded check engine light. That little dashboard light may as well say “Costly repair bill ahead.” In some cases, that may be true, but often, check engine lights are thrown due to small issues that can be easily remedied! Here are the some of the most common issues that result in a check engine light.
Bad Oxygen Sensor An O2 sensor is part of the Emission Control System that sends air/gas data to your vehicle’s Engine Management System. Your vehicle requires a specific ration of air/fuel to run. The O2 sensor communicates this data to the software; thereby ensuring your vehicle is running correctly. O2 sensors go bad due to carbon and emissions buildup. When it does, if not replaced quickly, it can lead to very costly repair bills such as replacing your catalytic converter. Bad O2 sensors can also cause a decrease in gas mileage, and increased emissions. Get it fixed ASAP before it becomes costly!
Loose Gas Cap Yep, that’s correct. Something as simple as a loose gas cap can throw your check engine light. Check your gas cap and make sure it’s tight and not cracked!
Bad Catalytic (Cat) Converter A catalytic converter reduces the gas emissions before they leave your vehicle. More importantly, it drastically cuts the amount of carbon monoxide your vehicle emits! It’s important to make sure your cat converter is working correctly as it’s an essential part of your exhaust system. Usually, a bad O2 sensor or bad spark plugs cause check engine lights. But cat converters can also wear out over time. The replacement cost for a catalytic converter may be costly. So keep up on regular vehicle maintenance!
Bad MAF (Mass Airflow Sensor) Similar to the O2 sensor, the MAF sensor communicates air/fuel data to your vehicle’s Engine Management System. It tells it how much fuel to send. MAF sensors can go bad due to air filters not being changed regularly (a very cheap regular maintenance item). If you don’t replace the bad MAF, you will begin to see a drastic decrease in gas mileage, and an increase in emissions. The cost to replace a bad MAF sensor is average. Don’t panic on this one. But don’t put it off either!
Bad Spark Plugs Spark plugs fail over time. On older vehicles, they can fail or need to be replaced every 25-50k miles. On newer vehicles, they can last up to 100k miles. This is another common cause for a thrown check engine light. Replacing spark plugs is usually a relatively simple and affordable fix. But make sure you don’t wait, as it can cause serious damage to your engine!

If you have a check engine light, and not sure what is causing it, stop by Evans Automotive. We’ll diagnose the issue, make the repairs, and have you on your way.

How Often Should I Get My Oil Changed? How Often Should I Get My Oil Changed?

Mon, 01 Sep 2014 00:00:00 GMT

Typically, most vehicles require an oil change every 3,000 – 5,000 miles. Not all vehicles are the same, and not all engine oils are the same. So which type of oil change should you get, and how often?
Two Types of Oil Conventional (Non-Synthetic) Oil This is the standard, petroleum-based oil that is offered at most oil change locations. Typically, new cars will come with conventional oil as it helps during the engine break in period. Conventional oil and oil changes are very affordable, and offer great value for good engine protection. If you using conventional oil in your vehicle, be on the safe side and get your oil changed every 3,000 miles.

Synthetic Oil Synthetic oil is a more recent development as compared to conventional petroleum oil. It can handle more pressure and heat, for a longer amount of time. It is recommended to use synthetic oil if (a) Your car has higher mileage or (b) Your vehicle is a high performance vehicle. If you are using synthetic oil in your vehicle, having your oil changed every 5,000 miles is perfectly acceptable.
The Importance of Changing your Oil at Regular Intervals Changing your engine oil at regular intervals is the most important think you can do to keep and extend your vehicles engine life. Remember, oil:

Lubricates the interior of your engine
Reduces friction between engine parts
Cools your engine
Cleans the carbon and varnish deposits that build up over time
Forms a protective barrier between your engine’s pistons, rings, and cylinder walls
Reduces engine noise

At Evans Automotive in Pensacola, we offer both Conventional and Synthetic Oil Changes at great prices. Stop by or call us!