FRANKLIN AUTO SERVICE > REPAIR TIPS > COST SAVING TIPS
10 Minute Pre-Trip Checkup Can Pay Off
A properly maintained vehicle is safer and more dependable and will even
save a few dollars at the gas pumps. Motorists should plan ahead to allow
time to perform necessary maintenance themselves or at the local service
facility.
Car Care Council offers three suggestions for a traveler's 10-minute pre-
trip checklist:
- Check all fluids - There are several fluids that require
attention: Engine Oil, power steering, brake and transmission fluids, and
windshield washer solvent and antifreeze/coolant.
- Check all
hoses and belts - A belt failure can affect the electrical system,
air conditioning, power steering, and the cooling system. Cooling system
hoses may be deteriorating from within, so old hoses and clamps in marginal
condition might need to be replaced.
- Check the tires -
Check tire inflation and inspect the tread for uneven wear, indicating the
need for wheel alignment. Also look for bulges and bald spots.
Follow these tips to maximize fuel efficiency of your vehicle:
- Vehicle gas caps - about 17% of the vehicles on the roads have gas
caps that are either damaged, loose or missing altogether, causing 147
million gallons of gas to vaporize every year.
- Under inflated tires
- when tires aren't inflated properly it's like driving with a parking brake
on. It can cost a mile or two per gallon.
- Worn spark plugs - A
vehicle can have either four, six or eight spark plugs, which fire as many
as 3 million times every 1,000 miles, resulting in electrical and chemical
erosion from heat.
- Dirty air filters - A clogged air filter creates
a "rich" mixture - the proportion of gas to air is incorrect. This wastes
fuel and causes the engine to lose power. Replacing a clogged air filter can
improve gas mileage by as much as 10%.
- Don't drive aggresively -
Aggressive driving can lower gas mileage by as much as 33% on the highway
and 5% on city streets.
- Avoid excessive idling - sitting idle gets
zero miles per gallon. Letting the vehicle warm up for one to two minutes is
sufficient.
- Drive the speed limit - Gas mileage decreases rapidly at
speeds above 60 mph. Each mile driven over 60 results in an additional 10
cents per gallon. Increase fuel efficiency by using cruise control.
What People Say About Us
Franklin Auto Service has my highest recommendation! The mechanics literally saved our vacation. Our car was making strange noises and we needed to travel to Petosky the next day. I brought the car in at 2pm. The issue was diagnosed in 30 seconds and the repair was made before they closed at six. They went above and beyond to help us get our car ready for our trip. I will always be indebted to them for this.
Had my vehicle towed to Franklin Auto thinking I was having issues with my alternator. Darryl found out that the issue was a dead battery and faulty fuel gauge sensors. Very honest mechanics who don't tale advantage of their customers. I will definitely bring my vehicles back to Darryl
They could not have been more wonderful. I called just before Memorial Day Weekend with a possible safety concern. I mentioned in passing that my husband would stay back from our travels and come up if/when the SUV was ready to avoid disappointing my sons by delaying their long-awaited trip. The owner said he couldn't allow that to happen and evaluated the SUV right away. It turned out, we needed new brakes, and had a tire with a nail in it that may have gone flat in the middle of our car trip. He also managed to get the work done the same day, without inconveniencing the other customers - He contacted the customer ahead of us, who said he didn't need his vehicle back that same day. So, on top of the excellent work performed - and the reasonable rates charged - this business cares about the kids of the community. We will be bringing our vehicles here for everything. Thank you!!
Maura Battersby, 05/31/2022
I will be going back to Franklin Auto Service for all of my repairs. They did a fantastic job fixing my wheel bearing. My exhaust was also resting on my sway bar and they were able to weld it back in place for only $60. I especially appreciated that the inspection was very thorough and it aligned with what I knew was already wrong with the car. I trust these guys are honest and the price is fair. My only complaint was they had the car for a couple days before working on it, but ultimately they deserve 5 stars for their honesty and quality.
Patrick Beger, 05/31/2022
Personable and very fairly-priced, I was very impressed by their professionalism and quick turnaround time. I will gladly go back again for all my future car service needs.
Arkturus Grey, 05/05/2022
First time customer, they diagnosed the issues with my car, called me for my approval to get it fixed. The car was ready in the time frame quoted. The prices they quoted were fair in my opinion. They were honest to tell me that just 3 of my 4 tires needed changing. Was a good experience on the whole. Will definitely go back.
