Here, we want to share some of our top tips for road trips to keep you, your loved ones, and your vehicle safer this winter. We’re all about getting your vehicle ready with preventative maintenance and routine auto services and helping you get the best gas mileage – keep reading to see what else!

Road Trip Safety Needs to Be a Priority

Things like alcohol, stress, increased traffic, putting off vehicle repairs due to lack of time or finances, inclement weather and unfamiliar routes of travel all tend to increase the dangers of holiday travel. Fatalities increase overall during holiday travel. So, we want to help increase awareness and remind people just how important these tips are, even the ones you know and try to follow on a regular basis.

Our Top Road Trip Safety Tips

1. Prepare Your Vehicle

Your vehicle needs to get you from point A to point B safely and smoothly. Plan a month in advance for any auto repairs or routine services. Have your trusted auto repair shop do a full inspection and check coolant, oil, tire pressure, tire condition, battery, brakes, belts and hoses, fluids, wipers and lights.

2. Prepare Yourself

Be sure to get plenty of rest and be in good health for the road trip. Don’t forget to refill and pack any meds you take, sleep the night before, bring water and snacks in the car and always remember to tell people where you’re going and what your travel plans are. You’ll also want to make sure your first aid kit is prepared, including blankets and pillows, jumper cables and flares, maps, tools, waterproof matches and other essentials.

3. Make Reservations or Check Hotels in the Area Ahead of Time

Before you hit the road, plan on where you’ll stop and make reservations so you know you have a place to stay. This will prevent you from driving overtired or at night on unfamiliar roads and terrain. You will also save time and gas not having to get on and off exits, and stopping at different hotels to find out the rates and availability.

4. Be Wise with Your Fuel Mileage

Gas prices are still high, so find ways to spend less money on the road by slowing down your acceleration, purchasing gas at the coolest time of the day, keep a moderate speed, keep windows closed when driving at high speeds, try driving on smoother roads, remove excess weight where possible, check tire pressure and know how much you’ll spend on gas.

5. Be Safe and Alert At All Times Behind the Wheel

This is huge. Distracted driving and impaired driving are avoidable. Staying alert will help you to scan the road for dangers or hazards, notice tailgaters or aggressive drivers around you, and avoid emergencies. It is also important to take breaks and stretch, have plenty of fuel options between each exit, and listen to your body when you’re getting tired.

Make Road Trip Safety a Priority With Preventative Maintenance At Our Tempe Auto Repair Shop

The increased dangers of holiday travel shouldn’t stop you from enjoying all that this season has to offer (and road trips all year long)! We are here to help prepare your vehicle for the miles to come and the memories ahead. Preventative maintenance helps keep vehicles safer and even helps you avoid major repairs and breakdowns when you least expect them.

Give us a call and schedule your appointment today!

The post 5 Essential Road Trip Safety Tips appeared first on Good Works Auto Repair Tempe.

Diesel Engines vs. Gas Engines: What’s the Difference?

Before you make a decision, you need to do the research and have a little background on each type of engine plus their pros and cons.

Both gasoline and diesel engines use internal combustion where air enters the engine and combines with fuel. In an effort to keep things simple, we won’t get too much more into the details. However, the ignition process is where this varies for these types of engines. During the compression process, a spark plug ignites the fuel in a gas engine. Diesel engines do not have spark plugs, but simply “use extreme compression to generate the heat required for spontaneous ignition, also known as compression ignition.” This would damage a gasoline engine.

Pros and Cons of Diesel Engines

Now, let’s break down the pros and cons of diesel engines!

Diesel Engine Pros:

• Super towing capabilities, enhanced torque and superior take offs
• Improved fuel efficiency
• Improved noise level and smoother performance compared to older diesel models
• More efficiency, decrease in carbon emissions compared to older models
• Engine has fewer components and no tune-ups are needed

Diesel Engine Cons:

• Inferior horsepower, slower speeds
• Fuel prices are more expensive and some gas stations may not have diesel fuel
• Noisier than gasoline-powered engines
• Emissions can emit harmful substances
• Maintenance and repairs can be costlier
• Not all automotive repair shops are experienced to perform diesel engine repair
• Difficulty starting in cold weather since they lack spark plugs

Diesel engines have come a long way and improvements are quite evident. However, some of the old diesel stereotypes still exist today – terrible emissions, dirty or noisy rides, and a “stinky experience” are just a few.

Expert Diesel Repair and Maintenance In Tempe, AZ

Are you going to be spending weekends camping in the woods, hauling a horse to shows and rodeos, or hauling ATVs to the sand dunes? Or, are you planning to explore America’s highways and become a frequent road tripper? If not, then gasoline-powered engines may be the best option for an easy daily commute. We welcome you to come in and talk with us about diesel engines at any time so you can make an informed decision about what’s best for YOU.

Here at Good Works Auto Repair, we have mechanics on staff who know and love diesel repairs and maintenance. If you do decide to purchase a diesel vehicle, you can count on us to handle your diesel maintenance and repairs. Give us a call or schedule an appointment online today!

The post Diesel Engines vs. Gas Engines: Which Is Right For You? appeared first on Good Works Auto Repair Tempe.

Since October is Fall Car Care Month, we wanted to share some helpful tips about what service items should be on your car care to-do list and why. This could end up saving you a LOT of money so keep reading!

Why is Fall Car Care so important?

Well, the arrival of fall means that your vehicle is recovering from the high temperatures and long drives of summer. Plus, right around the corner are colder temperatures, falling leaves, and other environmental changes that could impact your car.

The Car Care Council recognizes October as Fall Car Care Month. This is a great way to remind people to give their vehicles a little more attention and schedule preventative maintenance at their trusted local auto repair shop. Completing small auto repair or maintenance items now could save you from expensive issues during the winter.

Top Tech Tips for Fall Car Care Month

When you visit your auto repair shop, these are some of the most important vehicle maintenance services to consider:

1. Check the Fluids

Your vehicle needs various types of fluids for its components to run smoothly – from engine oil and power steering fluid, to brake fluid, transmission fluid, and even windshield wiper fluid and antifreeze. Topping off these essential fluids will keep your vehicle’s systems working well.

2. Inspect Hoses and Belts

These important parts need to be in good condition for your vehicle to run well, too. Exposure to summer heat is one of the most common reasons belts and hoses deteriorate. Your repair shop should check them for leaks, excessive wear, cracks, brittle areas, frays or looseness.

3. Battery Check

The summer heat can drain your battery’s charge and the cold will, too. If your car’s battery is in poor condition, you could end up stranded when you least expect it. Schedule battery service to learn more about your battery’s condition and whether or not it needs replacement.

4. Brake System Check

Brakes are important for driving safety but in the colder weather, they are more important than ever. Have your trusted mechanic check your brakes, pads, rotors, linings and drums.

5. Exhaust System Inspection

Have your exhaust system inspected for leaks, holes, rust, or any other signs of damage. Listen for weird noises and keep an eye out for reduced fuel mileage, unusual smells, a vibrating gas pedal or an odd rumbling when idle. If you notice any of these symptoms, schedule service as soon as possible.

6. HVAC System Inspection

Your car’s HVAC system works to cool, heat, ventilate and dehumidify the whole interior. Keep this system running well all year long for driving safety and comfort.

7. Steering and Suspension Service

Annual checks of shock absorbers, struts and chassis parts can keep your vehicle running smoothly.

8. Tire Maintenance and Service

Colder weather and different road temperatures affect how your vehicle maintains traction on the road. And proper tire pressure can significantly affect your driving safety as tire pressure drops 1-2 pounds for every 10 degrees in temperature. Schedule tire service to make sure your tires are at optimal pressure and that they’re free of excessive wear, tears, or bulges.

9. Inspection of Wipers and Lights

Weather can be unpredictable and you want to see and be seen in all types of weather. Think about replacing or upgrading your lights or wipers to enhance driving safety.

10. Wax the Outside of Your Vehicle

Getting off the summertime grime can help protect and prepare your vehicle’s body from what’s to come. Plus, you’ll feel good about driving a vehicle that looks nice, too.

Celebrate Fall Car Care Month at Good Works Auto Repair in Tempe, AZ

We know how much you rely on your vehicle and you can rely on us to make sure you’re able to keep driving for the upcoming season without any issues! Give us a call or schedule an appointment online today. We are happy to help give your vehicle a little extra TLC this October!

The post Fall Car Care Month: The Perfect Time For Vehicle Service appeared first on Good Works Auto Repair Tempe.

Today, we’ll take a closer look at what’s causing the shift that’s allowing more females to feel comfortable in this important field. Then, we’ll look at the types of occupations that women in the auto repair industry can expect to have.

Why are the numbers of women in the automotive industry increasing?

An overall change in perception is perhaps the single most driving force behind more women now choosing to pursue an automotive-related occupation. As more women have entered the field, there’s been a gradual mindset shift surrounding their presence. And even more than that, they’ve proven to be valuable assets by bringing different ideas, perspectives, and problem-solving approaches to what was once a male-dominated industry. Let’s look at a few other factors that are driving significant change.

4 major factors contributing to an increase in the number of women in the auto repair industry

1. There is now increased representation, advocacy, and support for women in the auto repair industry.

Now that we’re past the pioneering stage of women entering the automotive industry, there are more women to advocate for and support other females choosing to pursue an automotive career. There are also organizations that specifically encourage women to enter the auto repair industry and provide resources and networking experiences that help them do just that.

2. Women have automotive skills and expertise comparable to their male colleagues.

Over time, women have consistently shown that they’re capable of becoming skilled and knowledgeable professionals in the automotive industry. Furthermore, they’re able to participate in hands-on training opportunities and receive formal education in the field, exactly the same as their male peers.

3. Female customers often prefer to work with female automotive professionals.

Some customers, especially women, prefer to work with a female mechanic, service advisor, or salesperson. This has led to an increased demand for female workers in the automotive industry. It has also created opportunities for them to excel in the field.

4. A focus on science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) in schools encourages more women to pursue STEM-related careers.

Today’s vehicles are more like computers on wheels. As such, they need technical-minded people to diagnose and fix problems and even develop new technology. As more women pursue STEM careers, their success encourages other females to follow in their footsteps and consider technical careers in the automotive industry.

What types of careers can women have in the auto repair industry?

The simplest answer to this question is this … Women can have any of the same automotive careers as men do!

This list includes, but is not limited to, the following careers:

• Automotive technician (aka your trusted mechanic!)
• Auto repair service advisor
• Auto repair shop owner, business manager, or finance manager
• Tow truck driver
• Roadside assistance operator
• Automotive designer
• Mechanical engineer
• Service manager
• Auto parts specialist

Truthfully, there’s no limit to what women can do in the auto repair industry. And, they’re just getting started!

Automotive careers and job openings in Tempe, AZ

At Good Works Auto Repair, we’re proud to be family-owned and operated by a husband and wife team that loves cars and serving people. But we can’t provide the best auto repair and maintenance services in Tempe, AZ without the help of some skilled and friendly staff.

Regardless of their gender, our people have worked tirelessly to make us one of the top rated auto repair shops in the Phoenix area. Our highly skilled mechanics continuously train to be the best in the industry. And, our service advisors and office personnel work diligently to provide exceptional customer service to every customer, every time.

Even with some of the best employees around, we’re always on the lookout for talented people to join the Good Works Auto Repair family. If you’re interested in working in the auto repair industry, check out our current job openings to see if you’d be a good fit for our team. Or, schedule an appointment with us today and get your vehicle serviced at one of the best auto repair shops in Tempe!