Welcome to the Specialized Preferred Auto Blog

Mar 09
1
Portrait of a mechanic at work in his garage

Why You Should Bring In Your Car For Regular Repairs

By | Repair and Maintenance

Most automobile makers specify owners to bring in their vehicles for periodic service every six months. Some models indicate in their manuals when to bring in the vehicle for repair and maintenance and it’s usually based on mileage and time. For most high-end German luxury vehicles, these models usually contain on board sensors that let you know whenever conditional or mileage services are needed.

So why should you be vigilant in getting regular car repair services in Denver?

1. Keep Your Car in Good Condition

If you own a German vehicle or Subaru models, it’s a pricey investment and you need to take good care of your automobile in order to reap the long-term benefits and advantages of owning one. Bringing your car in for regular professional repairs means you’ll get better performance from your vehicle. You’re also assured that the experts in Denver car repair services will properly take care of your car especially since they are equipped with the skills, knowledge, experience, expertise and proper equipment.

2. Save Time and Money

Don’t wait before your car breaks down or stops working before bringing it to the repair shop. Regular maintenance and repairs will save you money and time in the long run because of early diagnosis and detection in case there is something indeed wrong with your vehicle. Having experts look at your car regularly allows them to offer precise diagnosis on the current state of your vehicle’s parts and equipment so they can update you if you need to have something fixed or replaced as quickly as possible.

3. Avoid Hassles and Inconvenience

If you don’t take care of your vehicle, especially your German luxury car or other expensive models, more work is needed to repair it. Having your vehicle checked regularly or brought in for maintenance will keep it in good shape.

In need of Denver car repair services? Specialized Preferred Auto provides auto repair and maintenance services with specializations in German automobiles brands including BMW, Audi, Mercedes, Mini Cooper, Volkswagen, Porsche and any and all Subaru models.

Our team of highly-trained and skilled mechanics are equipped to perform a wide range of services including but not limited to the following: axle repair, brakes and rotors, clutch repair, radiator & cooling system maintenance, electrical system repair, differential service, engine rebuild, engine swaps, factory maintenance, suspension repair, timing belt replacement, and transmission repair.

When you need car repairs in Denver, Cherry Creek, Littleton, Highlands Ranch, and Englewood in Sheridan – we are here to help. Call Specialized Preferred Auto today!

Feb 10
0
Check ingine icon on modern car dashboard close-up

Auto Repair: 5 Signs Your Car Needs A Tune-Up

By | Repair and Maintenance

Cars are like people. When the symptoms of an illness begin to show, we immediately turn to a specialist to diagnose the problem and find a solution. We don’t take chances when it comes to our own health.

Similarly, we want our vehicles to be in tip-top condition. A car tune-up is the equivalent of a medical check-up with lab tests for people. It is a diagnostic check performed by a mechanic to extend the life of your vehicle. The common parts replaced during a tune-up are ignition, filters, belts and hoses, and lastly, fluids.

When in Colorado, you need an expert Denver based auto repair team to fix the complex issues and conduct a tune-up. To know when you should have your car tuned up, be on the lookout for the most common signs of trouble brewing:

Engine Light

This is the most obvious sign that you need to book an appointment with your trusted Denver area auto repair shop.  Diagnostic lights that pop up on your dashboard are the first indicators that something is wrong.

Many factors can trigger the check engine light to come on, and your highly trained mechanic will diag which one it is.  Ignoring diagnostic lights could lead to severe problems.

Hard Start or Stalling

Misfiring is commonly caused by old or defective spark plugs igniting at the wrong time.  Sometimes, a weak battery is the culprit, which also causes slow acceleration and low fuel economy. If it takes several key turns to start your engine, then that’s a sure sign that your car needs a tune-up.

Acceleration Drop

Dirty and clogged air filters are usually the leading cause of slow acceleration and poor performance overall. The filter collects massive clumps of dirt and dust over time.  If it’s been a year or two since you had an air filter change and you notice that the car is running sluggishly, it’s time for you to go to an auto repair specialist in Denver.

Shifting Problems

Transmission problems can be avoided with a simple check of the transmission fluid. The transmission fluid helps the car avoid slipping in between gears.

If you’re experiencing gear shifting problems like shudders, it’s time for a tune-up.

Bad Gas Mileage

Low-quality gas or contaminants that enter the gas tank can leave engine deposits, which results in many problems affecting your vehicle’s performance. Find a reliable Denver based auto repair team that can perform fuel system cleaning or use fuel additives as preventive maintenance. Other factors could be underinflated tires, dragging brakes misaligned wheels—all of which they should be able to correctly determine and resolve.

While you know the signs of potential car troubles, DIY repairs and maintenance can lead to frustration and wasted time and energy. Go to a dependable team of mechanics that will get the job done right!

Go to your trusted professional auto repair specialist in Denver! Specialized Preferred Auto is fully equipped with the modern tools and techniques to accurately diagnose your vehicle problems and provide the best solutions—including a tune-up.

Take action on the small warning signs before they can turn into more critical problems! Visit Specialized Preferred Auto today!

Jan 13
0
Car engine with timing belt.

All About Your Vehicle’s Timing Belt

By | Repair and Maintenance

What will happen to your vehicle if your timing belt fails?

The short answer is simple: your car will stop working. You don’t want that to happen to you—and particularly not if you drive a high-end vehicle like a Porsche!

The Timing Belt Explained

The timing belt is responsible for the synchronization of the camshaft and crankshafts inside the engine. It also regulates the opening and closing of the valves with the movement of the pistons. With a perfectly working timing belt, your valves and pistons keep the engine running smoothly.

The timing belt is made from rubber or chain. A timing chain lasts longer than a timing belt and is made of metal similar to a bicycle chain. Be sure to know whether your vehicle has a timing belt or a timing chain in your vehicles manual.

Timing Belt Replacement and Cost

A common sign that your timing belt is failing is a ticking noise that you hear when driving. You may also encounter an engine misfire and oil leakage.

The damage that a broken timing belt incurs will depend on whether you have an interference or non-interference engine configuration. In an interference engine, timing belt problems can result in damaged cylinders and pistons, as well as broken valves. Non-interference engines incur less damage because the piston and valves are not rotating in the same place.

The Porsche 944, which exhibits outstanding weight distribution and superb handling, has an interference engine and calls for a Porsche 944 timing belt replacement at the first sign of trouble. Is your timing belt not broken but slightly damaged with cracks or cuts? A Porsche repair shop in Denver is most likely to recommend a timing belt replacement to eliminate the risk of further damage.

Proper vehicle handling and regular maintenance can help keep timing belt problems at bay, but the rule of thumb here is to change it every 60,000-100,000 miles. To be sure, check the manual from your vehicle manufacturer.

As one of the most crucial parts of the combustion engine, your timing belt needs to be replaced immediately when the situation calls for it. The cost of changing the timing belt isn’t cheap! For example, the average Porsche 944 timing belt replacement can reach well over $1,000.

If you’re on the hunt for a certified Porsche repair shop in Denver, visit Specialized Preferred Auto today! We have the facility, the equipment, and certified mechanics to perform timing belt replacement and other repairs to keep your Porsche in good running condition!

Visit us or call 720-425-8383 today!

Jan 06
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brake rotors

3 Things You Need to Know About Brake Rotors

By | Repair and Maintenance

One of the key components for the safe and excellent performance of your BMW are the circular discs connected to each wheel called brake rotors. The large area in your rotors creates the friction that essentially resists the spin of the wheel and slows down your vehicle’s movement.

Your BMW’s brake rotors must perform optimally all the time. Did you know that, according to a statistical survey of the U.S Department of Transportation, 2% of car crashes were caused by a component failure of a vehicle—brake rotors included? When it’s time for a BMW brake repair, make sure to find the most qualified team of experts in your area. If a replacement is required, find no less than the best brakes and rotors for your BMW.

Here are three things you need to know about BMW brake rotors:

There are four different types of rotors.

These four different types of rotors are drilled, blank and smooth, slotted, drilled & slotted. Not all rotors are made the same so you have to make sure that you select the right one for your BMW. Luckily, you just need to view the existing rotors of your vehicle in case a replacement is needed during a bmw brake repair.

Performance, road conditions, and weather can affect the rotor’s lifespan.

Heat is a big factor that can slowly deteriorate the condition of your brake rotors. Friction caused by rough roads can highly contribute to heat as well. Aside from the weather, your driving performance can also be a major factor in the deterioration of your brake rotors. When replacement is already necessary, make sure that your repair specialist chooses only the best brakes and rotors.

Your rotors are essential in ensuring the best performance of your brakes.

Your rotors are essential components to ensure your safety when driving. They should be checked regularly and as a vehicle owner, you should be able to determine when it is time to bring it to a repair specialist or when it is time to replace it.

BMWs are known for their exceptional styling and performance. Never settle for less than the best brakes and rotors mechanic for your vehicle! Call Specialized Preferred Auto at 720.425.8383 today.

Dec 23
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Audi

Audi Auto Mechanic: Your Reliable Partner in Ensuring A Top-Performing Car

By | Repair and Maintenance

Your Audi is probably one of the most significant investments you’ll make in your lifetime! As such, it pays to stock up some knowledge and create a checklist of things you should do to keep your vehicle in top shape.

Take the right steps to take care of your car and address preventable issues before they become irreversible problems. The best way to do that is to trust someone who has the knowledge and expertise in the subject. It makes a difference to trust Audi specialists who have undergone specific training and earned industry certifications!

Here are tips to ensure that your Audi is in mint condition at all times with the help of an expert team:

Find a certified Audi auto mechanic. When it comes to your Audi, don’t just settle for any technician. Remember that your Audi is uniquely engineered. As Audi experts, the right mechanics know how to detect issues accurately and fast, and make a conclusive evaluation of the problem to determine what needs to be worked on.

Don’t wait until your Audi’s issues become too complicated. Preventive maintenance from a reliable Audi auto mechanic will help prolong the lifespan of your car. It takes a well-trained and certified mechanic who knows exactly how to inspect it and get the job done right the first time.

Start early on your search for the best Audi mechanic. If you’re in Denver and other areas in Colorado, don’t wait for the last minute in finding an Audi shop in your area when you desperately need it. Look for the Audi Denver repair team near you so you don’t have to travel far to get the best service.

German car brands like Audi take pride in their outstanding performance. Leave yours in the hands of a top-rated auto repair team in Denver! Visit Specialized Preferred Auto today or call 720.425.8383.

Dec 16
0
car service, repair, maintenance and people concept - auto mechanic man with lamp working at workshop

How to Find the Best Auto Repair Shop

By | Repair and Maintenance

Don’t wait until your vehicle shows signs of trouble; take the time to find the best auto repair in Englewood CO. A necessary step after purchasing your vehicle is getting the right team of trained and certified mechanics to conduct the repairs and periodic maintenance it will need.

With so many car shops today, choosing the best one that fits your needs can be quite challenging! Here are several proven ways to find the most dependable Englewood CO auto repair team:

Research in advance.

Doing proper research always pays off. By simply performing a few searches on the Internet here and there, you will have a general idea of where you should go when car trouble happens. To best narrow down your search, search for auto repair in Englewood CO. You will then see several options, research more about your shortlist, and take your pick!

Read online reviews.

Today’s buyers rely heavily on the Internet to get the best deals and make the right purchase. Reading reviews, which studies show heavily influence purchase decisions, exposes you to other clients’ experiences with your Englewood, CO auto repair team of choice. Check out the company’s website and other review sites to look for genuine reviews from customers.

Look for experience.

If you want your car to get the best service, you will want to choose a repair shop that has been doing this kind of work for a long time and built a solid reputation for the quality of work they do. Pay attention to your mechanics’ skills, training, industry experience, and expertise; it matters that you leave your prized vehicle only in the hands of those you can truly trust!

Does your vehicle need repair or maintenance? Visit Specialized Preferred Auto, your leading team of expert mechanics! Call 720.425.8383 today.

Dec 10
0
auto repair englewood co englewood co auto repair

Factors that Place German Cars on Top of the World Auto Industry

By | Repair and Maintenance

Arguably, German cars are some of the best in the world. In fact, they are considered premium luxury cars by the automotive industry, and a majority of car manufacturers in other countries use German cars as their benchmark for quality.

All car manufacturers boast of the beauty, elegance and quality of their products, but there is just something that makes German brands better.

Common Elements that Make German Cars Superior

Comfort

This is a common attribute of German car brands. They have always been regarded as having the most comfortable ride and interiors. The efficient independent climate control and noise reduction are just two of the best attributes of German-made cars. BMW and Mercedes Benz are two German car makers that are known for producing models that provide great comfort.

Fuel Efficiency

Fuel efficiency in cars can be determined in two ways:

  • the car’s ability to save fuel when it is running, and
  • the car’s ability to generate power for every drop of fuel it uses

German car makers have earned the respect of other car manufacturers for their cars’ superior power-to-fuel ratio. While this attribute is common in German-made automobiles, Volkswagen and Audi are the best in this department.

Design and Performance

As mentioned, German cars have become a yardstick in the car manufacturing industry not just for their quality but because of their superb performance. This includes style and design, ability to adapt to different terrains, and their cars’ miles per gallon ratio.

Wherever you may be in the world, you’ll always see German cars on the streets. It only goes to show that German cars brands are accepted around the world for their superb quality, performance and styling.

Specialized Preferred Auto is a team of experts in the maintenance and repair of all German car brands. Leave your car to our care and discover excellent auto repair in Englewood CO that guarantees satisfaction and peace of mind.

Call us at (720) 425-8383.

Nov 11
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Practical Care Tips to Maximize the Life of your Clutch

By | Repair and Maintenance

As your car gets older, its components will start to deteriorate and will eventually need repair or replacement. However, if you give your car proper care and timely maintenance, you can actually prolong its life.

The clutch rarely breaks down, but ideally, you need to maintain your clutch and use it gently to avoid costly clutch repairs. If you treat your clutch recklessly, you are likely to cut its useful life in half.

Here are simple yet practical steps you should take to maximize the useful life of your clutch:

1. Keep your clutch reservoir above minimum

There should be sufficient amount of fluid in the reservoir to make the clutch work properly. You will find the reservoir in the engine compartment. Check it from time to time to make sure that its content is above the minimum. If the level is near the minimum, top it up with more fluid.

If you think you’re topping up fluid too frequently, the fluid might be going somewhere else. Take your car to a mechanic to have it checked just to make sure that there is no underlying problem.

2. Utilize your car’s handbrake on hills.

Hill starts are challenging and many drivers want to avoid such situations. Maintain your place on the hill by using your hand brake instead of relying too much on the clutch. This can help to minimize excess wear and tear on your clutch. Preserve the life of your clutch by using the handbrake in order to facilitate a smooth uphill start.

3. Avoid clutch slips.

A clutch slip happens when your clutch engages or disengages yet power is not transmitted to the wheels. A slipping clutch can trigger additional problems if you leave it unchecked. A clutch that slips time and time again can cause damage to your engine’s flywheel and the pressure plate of your clutch. This can result in premature clutch replacement.

4. Listen for unusual noises.

If you listen to your car when its running, you should definitely know its normal sounds and movements. Watch out for unusual vibrations, jolting movements and strange noises as these are indicative of clutch failure. You should observe your car keenly to be able to detect things that don’t sound or feel normal especially when you’re shifting gears. Seek the opinion of an experienced mechanic if you think your car doesn’t sound or feel normal when running.

The clutch can be the most reliable component of your car but it can be a cause for problems when it is worn out. Take good care of your car to prolong its useful life. When it starts to shudder, slip or produce unusual noise, bring your vehicle to a reputable car repair center for possible clutch replacement or clutch repairs.

Call us at (720) 426-8383.

Jun 07
0

Practical Maintenance Tips for Your German Luxury Automobile

By | Repair and Maintenance | No Comments

aratov, russia - august 24, 2014: red sport car mercedes-benz c63 amg drive speed on asphalt road at sunset

There’s a lot more to owning a German luxury vehicle than enjoying a comfortable ride and turning a lot of heads. It entails a sense of responsibility and commitment. Your car’s value alone dictates that it requires special treatment.

If you own an Audi, BMW, Mercedes Benz, Porsche, or Volkswagen, you certainly want to have your car maintained only by expert technicians who specialize in that particular brand. But as the owner, you also want to know how to keep your luxury vehicle in running condition for years. Here are 9 practical maintenance tips on how to maintain your German luxury car in order to optimize its performance and preserve its value:

Use the right type of engine oil.

Towards the end of the 19th century, most manufacturers of German luxury vehicles began using full synthetic engine oil on their vehicles. But you just can’t pick any type of synthetic oil for your car, as each brand or type of engine requires a specific oil viscosity for maximum performance and protection. With that said, you must only use the type of oil recommended by your car’s manufacturer.

Use quality filters.

Air, oil and fuel filters are built for different purposes but they have a common bottom line: To ensure that your engine’s air, oil and fuel intake are clean. When you change filters, use quality fleece or carbon filters to make sure that all air, oil and fuel getting into the engine are free from dirt and dust particles. Forget about the couple of dollars you could possibly save from buying low-quality filters. Their poor performance can actually cost you more in terms of repairs. Take it from an Englewood Co auto repair expert.

Use synthetic based fluids.

Be sure to use the appropriate type of fluids for your Audi, BMW, Mercedes Benz, Porsche, or Volkswagen. Manufacturers of modern German luxury vehicles recommend synthetic based fluids for power steering and other purposes. You may also refer to your user’s manual to be sure of the fluid specifications. Remember, mineral based fluids are a thing of the past. Don’t use them in your car unless it is recommended by your car’s manufacturer.

Check oil and fluid levels regularly.

While a majority of cars have dipsticks in their crankcase and transmission fluid reservoir, most of today’s luxury vehicles are no longer equipped with these important gauges because of their electronic monitoring capability. Regardless of whether your car has dip sticks or not, you must check your oil and fluid levels on a regular basis to ensure that these are above the minimum. When your oil or fluid levels go low, you should top it off without exceeding the maximum level.

Change your brake fluid every two years.

Although contained in a clean and sealed container, brake fluid can accumulate dirt from seals and o-rings, and can also attract moisture. Make sure that your brake fluid is free from these contaminants by having it replaced once every two years. Use the right DOT rated fluid as specified by your car manufacturer.

Follow your manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule.

All German luxury vehicles contain on board sensors that let you know whenever conditional or mileage services are needed. Do not ignore them. It is the best way you can do to keep your car in good condition.

Use the type of fuel recommended by your manufacturer.

There are many types and brands of fuel, and they are not equal. While all of them could have come from the same refinery, they can be different when factors such as handling, transportation, storage and additives come into the picture. When choosing fuel for your luxury car, follow the octane rating specified by your manufacturer. Avoid discount fuels because they are obviously lesser in quality and can possibly affect the performance of your vehicle.

Visit your dealer once a year to ensure the integrity of your car’s computer software.

As we all know, all modern cars are equipped with computers that regulate certain functions like fuel injection and engine temperature monitoring. When these computers fail, your car won’t run normally. Keep this from happening to your German luxury vehicle by having your car’s software checked once a year by your authorized dealer.

Make sure that your automotive specialist has the training and experience specific to your car.

Automotive technicians can share common knowledge of the general principles of how car components work, but like our Englewood Co auto repair specialists, one who has training and experience regarding your specific brand can really make a difference in results.

Your German luxury car is an investment that carries great value. Treat it well by having it maintained by a technician with the right skills and experience, like the auto repair Englewood, CO technicians preferred by owners of German luxury cars.

If you need a reliable auto repair and maintenance service in Colorado, you should try Specialized Preferred Auto. We are a team of German cars experts, and we offer an array of services to make your BMW, Audi, Mercedes Benz, Porsche, or Volkswagen achieve peak performance and give you a superior driving experience.

Call us at (720) 425-8383, lets talk.

May 09
0
Collection of popular German car logos: Mercedes, BMW and Audi

Important Maintenance Factors that can Help to Keep Your German Car in Top Shape

By | Repair and Maintenance

German cars own a large chunk of the American auto market pie. This is proven true by the July 3, 2018 Bureau of European and Eurasian Affairs Fact Sheet which states that at $29 billion, vehicles are Germany’s biggest exports to the United States. Isn’t that proof that we love German cars?

If you own a German car such as a BMW, Porsche, Audi or BMW, you’re certain to be proud of it because German vehicles are known for their quality and style. But even if these cars are expected to provide a smooth and comfortable ride, you must maintain them on a regular basis to keep them running at peak performance.

Proper maintenance is essential not only for German automobiles but on all vehicles regardless of brand and origin. This will help to give you the peace of mind that your car will continue to provide a smooth, comfortable and hassle-free ride throughout its lifetime. It’s a guarantee that Specialized Preferred Auto Denver can confidently give when we perform maintenance on your vehicle.

Here are several factors that can help to maximize the life of your vehicle:

Absence of Unusual Sounds

Unusual sounds your car produces can indicate a problem. Drive your car at low speed and turn down the radio to be able to listen attentively to the sounds your car’s engine and its other body parts produce. Roll down your car’s windows to listen for problems like squeaking and squealing sounds. You also need to watch out for abnormal noise when shifting gears. These can mean that your car may have a slight defect or misalignment which needs inspection and correction. If you hear an unfamiliar noise from your German car, you should have it checked at Specialized Preferred Auto Repair before it grows into a larger problem.

Proper Tire Maintenance

Tires are the only parts of your car that create contact with the road. It can have an influence on the level of comfort and riding experience you get from your vehicle. Tires are designed to endure different degrees of wear and tear from different surfaces. As such, snow and heat can have different effects on your tires. Check them regularly to ensure that their pressure conforms to the manufacturer’s recommendations. This can help to give a safe, comfortable ride and optimize your car’s miles per gallon performance.

Have your tires rotated from time to time. This can help to prevent accelerated wear which can cause an unpleasant effect on your road experience as well as on your wallet.

Regular Oil Changes

Oil keeps the inside of your vehicle’s engine lubricated. This lubrication minimizes friction and damage to moving parts. But due to constant use, oil can lose its ability to lubricate. This can cause overheating and possible engine breakdown. This is the very reason why you need to replace your engine oil according to the manufacturer’s recommended type and frequency.

You may also bring your car to Specialized Preferred Auto Repair to have your oil and oil filter changed. We specialize in German automobiles and we know what’s best for your car.

Proper Battery Maintenance

Technology has done a lot to make the modern car battery more powerful and easier to maintain, but if you ignore them for long periods, they’re still bound to fail. One way to maintain your battery’s condition is to keep it clean to prevent the buildup of corrosion or acid on the battery’s contact points. You also need to make sure that it is charged properly to keep your car free from electrical system failure. Use a multimeter to measure its voltage. A fully charged battery should be at least 12.6 volts when the engine is not running.

Above-Minimum Coolant Levels

Your car’s engine needs a coolant to keep its temperature low when it is running. A car that is low on coolant can overheat and cause major damage to its engine. There are many types of coolants and you must make sure which type is right for your German car.

If you are driving a BMW or Mercedes-Benz, you should know that these cars are equipped with turbochargers that have special coolers in them. These systems run on fluids that are different from the fluids used on the other areas of the engine. You should not get these fluids mixed up or your car will be in serious trouble.

When checking the needs of your German vehicle, it’s always good to seek the assistance of competent German car specialists such as the Specialized Preferred Auto Denver mechanics. This is the best thing you can do to avoid costly mistakes.

You may contact us at 720-425-8383 for an expedited appointment.