News and Tips from American Pride Automotive
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November 2009 |
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Greetings!
Our first ever Family Service Day was a huge success and we're looking forward to the next event on November 21st at our Yorktown location. Family Service Day is one of our ways of giving back to the community, helping single-parent families who have enough challenges without having to worry about car repairs and maintenance. Scroll down to read more about Family Service Day.
This month we also have some tips about cold weather warm-ups and engine care, and a great coupon for a FREE Virginia state inspection.
Thanks again for your ongoing support.
Sincerely,
Charlie Marcotte
American Pride Automotive
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Cold Weather Start-up and Engine Care Tips
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 Cold weather is rough on engines for two main reasons -- batteries operate better when the air is warmer, and oil is thicker when the temperatures drop, which means your engine isn't lubricated as well when it's cold.
With that in mind, now is the time to give your battery a once-over. Make sure the terminals aren't showing any corrossian or deposits. If so, you can clean them with a baking soda solution. Also, check to make sure the cables are in good shape, and all connections are secure, particularly the ground to the vehicle's frame.
On unsealed batteries you should also check the electrolyte level and the specific gravity to make sure the battery is capable of holding a full charge. If you have a vehicle that doesn't get used very often, you may want to consider a trickle charger during the colder months.
For the engine itself, make sure you are changing the oil and filter regularly -- old oil breaks down and provides less protection. Also, it's a good idea to let the engine warm up for at least two minutes before driving. One guideline -- if there is frost on the hood, let it warm up for a least two minutes. If there is ice on the windshield, add an additional minute.
Once you start driving, avoid sudden acceleration until the vehicle has been operating for a few miles.
If you travel to really cold areas regularly -- the mountains for example -- you may want to switch to a lighter-weight oil for the winter, but be sure to follow your manufacturer's guidelines.
Lastly, don't forget the other fluids -- check the transmission fluid and anti-freeze regularly during winter months, and add a non-freezing mixture to your windshield wiper reservoir.
Follow these tips and you'll be well ahead of the pack when it comes to protecting your car or truck this winter. Of course we're happy to help if you're not sure how to perform any of these tips.
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Family Service Day is November 21st
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Every six weeks American Pride Automotive holds Family Service Day for single-parent families who need a little extra help with car repair or vehicle maintenance. The goal is to give a little something back, and even teach people a little about what goes on under the hood. We've found that a simple understanding of how cars work and some regular, simple maintenance can often prevent expensive repairs down the road.
We check fluids, hoses, belts, tires, brakes and more, and do what we can to help families who can't afford these services. We'll provide free oil changes and tire rotation, and plenty of advice and suggestions to keep cars running smoothly in the future. Last month we helped 23 families.
Family Service Day will run from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on November 21st at our Yorktown location. If you or someone you know is a single parent and needs help with their car or truck, have them call (757) 595-4100 to schedule an appointment for that day or make an appointment online here.
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Give $10 and Get $10
Ask About Our Referral Program!
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Did you know we have a referral program for our customers? Here's how it works -- when you have your car or truck serviced at either American Pride Automotive location we'll give you a card that's good for $10 off a future service visit. But the card isn't for you -- it's for you to give to a friend, coworker, neighbor, etc.
Then, when they come in and present the card, we'll also send YOU a gift card good for $10 off your next service. It's a win-win for everyone -- you get to be a hero and give a discount to someone you care about, and in return you also save on your next visit! Be sure to ask about our referral program on your next visit.
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