How to Find Fast Auto Repair in Clearwater, FL

Are you frustrated because your vehicle broke down? We all have busy lives, and it can be inconvenient to have your car out of commission when something goes wrong. Here at Peterson Auto & Truck, we offer fast and reliable auto repairs in Clearwater, FL. Our goal is to help you manage your lifestyle without the inconvenience of being without your car.

When your car is having problems, it is essential that you take action right away. Here are a few things to keep in mind before you choose a mechanic for the car repairs:

Experience of the Mechanic

When it comes to car repair, experience matters. Just because a mechanic has worked on other types of cars, doesn’t mean that they will have the knowledge to repair the make or model that you own. So, it is essential that you do a little research to find out about the expertise of the mechanic that you are considering.

Talk with the auto repair shop about the types of cars that they usually service. By finding the right match with experience and certification, it will help to speed up the car repair timeline. When someone is knowledgeable about the types of repairs that are needed, then they will be able to quickly complete the task without needing to spend a lot of time on research.

Location Near Your Home or Office

The location is another important factor to consider to facilitate the process of drop-offs and pick-ups. If you find a convenient location, then it can be simple to drop off your car on the way to work and then pick it up again at the end of the day. Or, you might consider the benefits of stopping by on your lunch break for a quick oil change.

Look for an auto repair shop that is easy to access, which will help to reduce the time that you spend in the car driving back and forth. At Peterson Auto & Truck, we want to make it as easy as possible for you to meet with our mechanics. So, we offer three convenient locations for you to choose from for your car repair appointment.

Planning Repairs in Advance

Do you know that certain maintenance tasks or repairs will need to be addressed soon? If you plan your repairs in advance, you can schedule a time to take the vehicle in which speeds up the repair work. With a scheduled appointment, your car will take priority over the walk-in customers.

Instead of waiting until something goes wrong with the car, it is better to plan ahead and stay proactive with your car repair schedule. At Peterson Auto & Truck, we can make suggestions to help you stay current with the manufacturer’s recommendations for repair and maintenance.

Do you need to schedule a time for maintenance or auto repair? At Peterson Auto & Truck, we offer the auto services that you need! Contact our experienced team by stopping by our location at 4655 118th Ave. N., Unit B, Clearwater, FL 33762. Or, you can call in advance to setup a time to bring your car into our shop: (727) 329-8728

Tire Rotations, Oil Changes, and Other Necessary Types of Auto Service

As a car owner, there are several things you need to do to keep up with the regular maintenance and repair of your vehicle. It would be nice if you didn’t have to worry about these things, but you should expect an occasional visit to an auto service shop in St. Petersburg, FL.

How do you know when you need to take your car in for maintenance or an inspection? The recommended schedules vary depending on the make and model of your car. The best thing you can do is talk with an auto expert to learn more about the type of car you drive. Here at Peterson Auto and Truck, we are here to help!

Common Auto Repair Services

These are some of the most common types of auto repair services your vehicle might need. Check your owner’s manual for more recommendations and specifications.

  • Tire Rotations: Rotating the tires on a regular basis improves the safety of your car. These rotations also help extend the life of the tires. As you drive, it is normal for wear and tear to show up on the tires. Rotating the tires will keep the wear even to reduce the likelihood of bald spots. The frequency of the tire rotations varies depending on the type of tires you have and how much you drive. The recommended tire rotation time is based on the miles you put on the tires.
  • Oil Changes: Most people know that oil changes are necessary, but it can feel like a hassle to keep up with maintenance appointments. Don’t let your oil change schedule slip because it can have an impact on the lifespan and quality of your car. The frequency of oil changes depends on the type of oil that you choose to put in the car.
  • Safety Inspection: When it is time to register your car, it is necessary to have a safety inspection completed. This inspection is designed to identify potential problems that could impact the safety of the vehicle on the road. It is beneficial for you to learn about potential problems in the early stages. Early diagnosis allows you the opportunity to repair the car before bigger problems develop in the future and cause you further headaches.
  • Timing Belt: It is common to have the timing belt replaced after a certain number of miles. Look in your owner’s manual to see when timing belt replacement should occur. This maintenance task might seem like a trivial item, but a broken timing belt can have a negative impact on your engine.

As you can see, there are different times when you should take your vehicle in for an inspection or repair. For more information about auto service, contact Peterson Auto & Truck. We have a convenient location at 7121 9th Ave N., St. Petersburg, FL 33710. Call our team right away to find out more about improving the quality of your car: (727) 343-4242

What is the Best Schedule for Auto Repair?

As a car owner, it is inevitable that you will need to take your car in for repairs and maintenance. Many people find it overwhelming to keep up with maintenance dates. How do you know when you need to take your car in to have it inspected?

Don’t stress.The experts are here to help. When you find a trusted auto repair shop in St. Petersburg, FL, then you have a team to offer assistance. Here at Peterson Auto and Truck, we are dedicated to the quality of your car. We invite you to contact us anytime to learn more about the suggested maintenance schedule for any vehicle.

Regular Inspections and Consistent Repair

There are a few regular maintenance items that help you remember to schedule an inspection for your car. For example, many car owners let the necessity of an oil change act as a reminder to have a full inspection on the vehicle. You can get both items done at the same time without an extra trip.

This inspection is designed to look for any potential problems that might be occur. Identifying these issues in the early stages can help you avoid a breakdown on the side of the road. Additionally, early diagnosis can save you money by using preventive repairs instead of waiting for something to break.

Regular car repair can be a hassle, but it will save you from bigger, more costly problems in the future. As an example, if you wait too long to change a timing belt, the belt might break and ruin your engine. A simple maintenance appointment right now can save you thousands of dollars in future repairs.

Read the Owner’s Manual

It is important that you check your owner’s manual to learn more about the recommendations for your vehicle. There are certain mileage points when maintenance is necessary. Even if your car seems to be working well, you shouldn’t skip these dates. The manufacturer makes these recommendations for a reason. The regular repairs are designed to improve the quality of your car and keep it running for a long time.

Each owner’s manual is different, so the recommendations vary depending on the make and model of your car. You can read the paper manual, which is usually stored in the glove box of the car. Or you can find the information online if you are unable to locate your manual.

An experienced car repair team will be able to make recommendations about when your car should have inspections and repairs. They can look up the information provided by the car manufacturer. Just make sure you are working with an auto repair shop you can trust so you know they are making good recommendations.

Is it time to take your car in for auto repair or maintenance? Call our team at Peterson Auto & Truck at (727) 343-4242. We can offer the service that you need! We are located at 7121 9th Ave N., St. Petersburg, FL 33710. Call anytime or stop by with your questions.

How Often Does Your Car Need Brake Repair?

To maintain the safety of your car, it is essential to consider the timing of your brake repair. Working with an experienced brake repair shop in Clearwater, FL will give you peace of mind that your car is in good condition. It can be helpful for you to learn about brake repair before you decide on services and their timing.

At Peterson Auto and Truck, we are dedicated to your satisfaction. Our team is working hard to ensure the safety and quality of your car. We offer brake repair, as well as many other types of auto repair services.

Timing Brake Repair: Miles or Months?

It sounds easy to mark a date on your calendar for your upcoming brake repair service. But brake repair isn’t that simple. Regular check-ups and tune-ups can be beneficial to monitor the wear and tear on the brake pads and rotors. Even with regular maintenance, you can’t predict the exact month or date that the brakes will need to be replaced.

How you drive your car can have a strong impact on the rate at which the brake pads wear down. The quality of the brake pad will also impact the durability of your braking system. The best thing you can do is talk with your mechanic to put together a regular inspection schedule.

These inspections can be based on mileage. By measuring the schedule based on miles instead of dates, it improves the timing of the inspections and repairs.

Why Brake Repair Matters

The quality of your brakes will have a direct impact on the vehicle’s safety. If the brakes go out, you might face a situation where you are unable to stop the car. Regular maintenance is essential to minimize risks when you are behind the wheel.

Stop by an auto repair shop for inspection and maintenance to gain peace of mind that your brakes are in good condition. Even if you plan appointments for regular inspections, it is important to pay attention to the performance of the brakes.

Certain signs can help reveal when it is time to repair the braking system. These are a few reasons why you should consider calling an auto repair shop for brake services:

  • The car isn’t responsive when the brakes are pressed
  • The response time is slower than normal
  • The brake pedal pulses when you push down on it
  • There are unusual noises, such as squeaking or scraping when you brake

Any time there is a question about your vehicle’s braking system, the best thing that you can do is talk with an auto repair expert. A simple inspection along with regular maintenance can be key to keeping your family safe.

Do you want to know more about our brake repair service? At Peterson Auto & Truck, we are here to help! Our office is located at 4655 118th Ave. N., Unit B, Clearwater, FL 33762. Call us to schedule a time for your brake appointment: (727) 329-8728

Regular Transmission Care Extends the Life of Your Car

The transmission in a car is essential for overall function of the vehicle. If there are transmission problems, you might find yourself stranded on the side of the road! Don’t wait for transmission failure to occur. There are few things you can do to maintain the quality of the transmission. Regular care will keep your car running for many years. You can talk with an auto service in Clearwater, FL for more information about the transmission service needed for your car.

Transmission Complications

In recent years, technology in the auto industry has become more advanced. There are many great features you can enjoy, but it comes at the price of complicated engines and transmissions. Computer chips are integrated into the systems, making it difficult to manage when problems occur. Previously, it was all based on machinery. Now it is a mixture of both mechanics and technology.

If there is a transmission problem, it is essential you talk with an expert auto repair shop for help. Some people make the mistake of trying to fix the problem on their own. The final result is more damage to the car and a higher repair bill when you take it into the shop.

Identifying Transmission Problems

How do you know if it is time for transmission repair or maintenance? Regular maintenance helps you avoid bigger issues in the future. You can always talk with an experienced mechanic for information about the maintenance schedule that is best for your car.

The most common sign that something is wrong with the transmission is evident when the car shifts. These are three signs that you need to take your car in for auto service:

  • Hanging Shifts: Does the engine over-rev because the transmission shifts too late? There can be improper linkages when the transmission gets old. Or other problems might be a transmission line that is clogged or one that has a failed sensor. Usually, the transmission shifts based on RPMs, throttle positions, and the vehicle’s speed.
  • Harsh Shifting: If there is excessive pressure in the transmission, you might notice it is a hard to shift. Most often, flushing the transmission fluid can solve this problem. In some cases, you might have a leaky transmission that needs to be repaired.
  • No Shifting: What if the transmission doesn’t shift at all? If shifting doesn’t occur, it is probably time to have the transmission rebuilt. This repair is the most intensive and expensive type of transmission service.

As you can see, there are different indications that something might be wrong with your transmission. If there is ever a question, don’t hesitate to talk with an expert to learn more about the repair options available.

When you are ready to learn about transmission repair or other types of auto service, then contact us today! Peterson Auto & Truck is located at 4655 118th Ave. N., Unit B, Clearwater, FL 33762. Call us to learn more about our services: (727) 329-8728

Why a Privately Owned Auto Repair Shop is better than a Chain

When it is time for you to have your car maintained or repaired, you need to make the important decision about choosing an auto repair shop in Clearwater, FL. There are many options to choose from, but all services are not created equal. Selecting a high-quality shop is essential to help you maintain the durability of your car.

Location and Quality of Services

Most car owners think the easiest way to choose a car repair garage is based on location. Of course location matters because you need something convenient. At the same time, it is essential that you consider the quality of the mechanic.

Do you feel like you are always over-charged when you visit a mechanic? Some of the auto repair shops have ways of getting people in the door, then a bunch of add-on charges are tacked onto the bill. Finding the right mechanic can save you a lot of time and money. Avoid a headache by working with a privately owned auto repair shop in Clearwater, FL.

Why Privately Owned?

Why does it matter if you choose a shop that is privately owned? These small, local businesses are focused on the community. They don’t have to report to headquarters or an area manager about the performance of the shop.

Many people agree the quality of the service goes up when a garage is privately owned. The mechanic works on each car as if it were his own. You can rest assured that you are getting the best service available in the area.

In comparison, some of the bigger chain locations have employees that are constantly rotating through the company. It is harder to find people who truly care about their work when they don’t have anything invested in the business.

The High-Quality Service You Deserve

Here at Peterson Auto and Truck, we are focused on quality. We offer a high quality of service to each customer. We have a long list of loyal customers who keep coming back whenever they need maintenance for their vehicle. Our goal is to build a life-long relationship with every customer that walks through our doors.

Working with a private mechanic means you will get the undivided attention that you deserve. We remember the history of your car, which improves the quality of service over the years. Your satisfaction is our goal, and we always work hard to provide excellent car repair services at a price you will love.

You deserve to work with a mechanic you can trust. Our doors are always open for customers. You can talk with us anytime to ask questions or learn more about the best auto repair services for your situation.

Are you interested in learning more about a high-quality auto repair shop? Contact Peterson Auto & Truck at 4655 118th Ave. N., Unit B, Clearwater, FL 33762. You are welcome to call us anytime to schedule a time for us to look at your vehicle: (727) 329-8728

When to Go In for Routine Auto Maintenance

Routine auto repair in St. Petersburg, FL can make all the difference in the quality and safety of your vehicle. Unfortunately, many of us put off these repairs too long or forget about them all together. Not having your car serviced as often as necessary can result in spending more on gas, having to replace an expensive part, and can even land you in some dangerous situations. St. Petersburg drivers should pay particular attention to having their car serviced promptly to avoid any additional problems. To simplify this process, we have created an easy list to remind you when to bring your car into a mechanic:

Monthly:

  • Oil Levels: Have your oil level checked and topped off if necessary. Also be sure to check for any leaks in the oil tank.
  • Hoses: check for any rotten, brittle, or bulging hoses. Have a mechanic replace them if necessary.
  • Belts: Worn down belts can be extremely dangerous while driving. Check if your belts have become worn, glazed or frayed and have them replaced immediately if necessary.
  • Tire Pressure: Not only should you check if your air pressure is too low, but also check if it’s too high. Either can be dangerous while on the road.
  • Coolant: Check your coolant levels and top off if necessary. Also, check for any leaks that may be occurring.
  • Air Filter: You don’t want to be breathing in dirty air. Have your filters replaced if they appear dirty.

Every 3 Months:

  • Oil and Oil Filter: Typically your oil should be changed every 3,000 miles, but if you have a hard time keeping track just stop in every three months.
  • Power Steering Fluid: Have a professional check to see if your power steering fluid needs to be topped off.
  • Transmission Fluid: Make sure you are at the right levels of transmission fluid and have it topped off if necessary.
  • Windshield Washer Fluid: Not exactly dangerous, but it could result in some pretty unfortunate windshield scratches. Make sure you have enough fluid and fill up if necessary.
  • Battery Terminal: Have your battery terminal cleaned if it appears corroded, or completely replace it if necessary.

Every 6 Months:

  • Wiper Blades: If you find your wiper blades appear worn, smeary, or brittle have them replaced.
  • Horn: Have your horn tested to make sure it’s functioning properly. You don’t want to find out your horn is damaged when you need it the most!
  • Brakes: Check if your brakes are overly worn or have become thin.
  • Exhaust System: Have a professional check for loose parts, damage, or rust.
  • Shocks: Have your shocks examined for any oil seepage or wear.

At Peterson Auto & Truck, we want your car to work as well as the day you bought it. This is why regular maintenance is so important. To schedule any one of the auto repairs listed above, give us a call at (727)343-4242 or visit us in person at 7121 9th Avenue N, St. Petersburg Florida 33710. We will be happy to give you our professional opinion and make sure your car is properly functioning in every area.

Tips for Finding the Right Auto Repair Shop

When it comes down to having your car repaired, you want to find an auto repair shop that you can trust to provide quality service. But how do you find the right one for you and your vehicle? The key is to do your homework, ask the right questions, and never be afraid to shop around.

We have assembled this short list of tips to help you find the best auto repair shop in St. Petersburg.

  1. Ask for Referrals: It pays to get referrals from friends and family on where they have taken their car in the past. A direct reference can help you avoid any scams and save you money. At Peterson Auto & Truck, a large portion of our clientele comes from word of mouth thanks to the quality repairs and customer service we provide.
  2. Shop Around: If you don’t have an emergency on your hands, it’s best to shop around by trying out a repair shop for simple maintenance repairs. At Peterson Auto & Truck, our quality remains the same whether we are replacing large parts or just changing your oil.
  3. Don’t Choose Based on Price: Price is often a factor that many consider before selecting a repair shop. However, low prices do not always mean the job will be done correctly. Likewise, an expensive shop doesn’t mean you will receive high-quality service.
  4. Check Online Reviews: If you are looking for referrals beyond your friends and family, always check online to see how a repair shop ranks. You are more likely to find other customers that have visited the shop with a similar situation to yours. Peterson Auto & Truck receives great reviews both in person and online.
  5. Don’t Be Afraid to Ask: There’s nothing wrong with calling a repair shop before coming in and asking them any questions you may have. You will be able to tell fairly quickly the overall attitude and customer service you can expect from the business. Ask about any extended warranties or customer guarantees the repair shop may offer. You can also ask about any certifications held by the employees or their years of experience in the industry.
  6. Request an Estimate: If you are looking at some major repairs, there’s nothing wrong with requesting an estimate. Always request a written estimate to avoid any additional service charges. At Peterson Auto, we pride ourselves on transparency, so you always know what to expect when it comes to your repair.
  7. Ask the Shop to Explain It: Part of quality customer service is the mechanic’s ability to explain your cars situation in terms you understand. Often repair professionals are guilty of speaking in terms most non-professionals wouldn’t understand. It’s important that you are aware of exactly what is going on with your car at all times.

If you have any questions on the seven tips listed above or would like to see how Peterson Auto & Truck measures up, we invite you to call us at (727) 343-4242. You can also visit us in person at 7121 9th Ave N. St. Petersburg Florida 33710.

Routine Auto Service to Stay On Top Of

Auto service doesn’t always have to break the bank or leave you without a car. By bringing in your vehicle to be serviced on a routine basis, you can save yourself a great deal of stress and money in the long run. Clearwater drivers are keeping their vehicles in tip-top shape by bringing them in for regular maintenance. Here is a list of some simple repairs and services that can keep you and your car safe on the road.

Battery:

–   Have a mechanic regularly check your battery to check its voltage and whether it is in need of replacing.

–   Have a mechanic make sure your battery cables and terminals are properly connected.

Controls:

–   Have your mechanic check your controls immediately if you notice any knocking or rattling from your steering.

–   If your steering feels a bit heavy, have a mechanic look at it further.

–   If your brake pads feel like there is air trapped beneath them, see if they need to be replaced.

–   Make sure there aren’t any misfiring spark plugs. This can decrease gas mileage by as much as 40 percent.

Water and Coolant:

–   Have your water levels checked to prevent your radiator from freezing or overheating.

Lights:

–   Have your car checked by a mechanic if you notice any lights in your dashboard illuminating.

Windscreen:

–   Check your window screen for any chips or cracks and have them attended to before they grow into larger cracks.

–   Have your window wipers checked regularly and replaced when necessary.

Power Steering:

–   Be sure to have your mechanic routinely check your fluid levels and have it topped off when necessary.

–   If you notice your car is losing fluid, have your mechanic take a look.

–   Have a professional check all belts and hoses.

Motor Oil

–   Make sure to have your oil checked regularly, especially before long journeys.

Tire Pressure & Tread:

–   Check your tire pressure weekly.

–   Have a mechanic check whether your tire is over or under inflated. Either can be dangerous to drive on.

–   Make sure your tire tread is at least 1.6mm deep.

–   Have your alignment checked by a mechanic.

–   Have your tires rotated every 5,000 to 8,000

Cooling:

–   Have your air filters routinely checked by a professional.

–   Check your coolant level periodically.

–   Have your coolant drained out and refilled as necessary to remove dirt and dust particles.

Brakes:

–   Have your brakes inspected to see if they are in need of replacing, especially if they are making any noise.

–   Make sure your brakes have not become worn down or too thin.

At Peterson Auto & Truck we will check on any problems or concerns you may have with your vehicle. We can also assist you with routine maintenance checks and car service. We offer residents in Clearwater, FL auto service they can trust, and repairs that are both fast and affordable. Receive service today by calling (727) 329-8728 or visit us in person at 4655 118th Ave N. Unit B, Clearwater Florida 33762.

How Auto Service Can Save You Money

You may try to avoid auto service in an attempt to save money, but the truth is tending to your car can save you money. Preventative car service is an important part of making sure nothing major goes wrong with your vehicle. St. Petersburg drivers can easily save themselves a great deal of time, stress, and expenses by simply making sure to have their car serviced regularly. Here is a list of some simple car services that can keep your vehicle running smoothly:

Every Other Gas Station Visit:

  • Check Oil Levels: You especially want to check your oil frequently if you own a sports car or have a high compression engine (these engines are found on most cars built after the year 2000).
  • Check Tire Pressure: This simple test will help save on gas and can extend the life of tires and suspension bushings.

Every 5,000-7,000 (Full Synthetic) Miles

  • Oil and Filter Change: Having your oil changed regularly lubricates the moving parts of your vehicle and reduces friction. It also prolongs the life of your engine. The more you drive or, the harsher the conditions you drive in, the more frequently you should have your oil changed. Changing your oil is also valuable way to prevent carbon and sludge build-up in your engine.

Every 15,000 Miles

  • Replace Engine Air Filters: Have your air filter regularly replaced to minimize engine contaminants, keep your fuel economy at an optimum level, and save money at the gas pump.
  • Inspect Transmission Fluid: Transmission fluid helps lubricate your shifting gears. The life of your fluid drops after it hits 175 degrees Fahrenheit, so it’s important to have it flushed every 30,000-40,000 miles.
  • Replace Cabin Air Filter: Your cabin air filter keeps dust and contaminates from entering your car, it also helps your heating and cooling operate more efficiently. Replacing your filters can save you from having to replace your battery sooner than usual.

Every 30,000 Miles

  • Brake Fluid Flush: Your brake fluid should be flushed every two years. The fluid may need to be cleaned sooner if it becomes burnt or its moisture content exceeds 2%.
  • Engine Coolant Exchange: A simple coolant exchange can help ensure your engine won’t overheat (resulting in costly repairs). This service will also keep your engine running efficiently.
  • Copper Spark Plug Replacement: Worn out plugs cause misfires or dead cylinders, both of which require expensive repairs. Having your spark plugs replaced improves your car performance, ensures longer engine life, and reduces harmful emissions.
  • Power Steering Fluid Flush: Old or low fluid can make it difficult to steer. By replacing the fluid, you can improve handling and performance.

At Peterson Auto & Truck, we can provide you with the best auto service in St. Petersburg, FL that you need to get the most out of your vehicle. We pride ourselves on providing you with quality service and repairs, so you save money in the long run. If you are due to have your car serviced and would like to request service, give us a call at 727-343-4242 or visit us in person at 7121 9th Avenue N. St. Petersburg, Florida 33710.