Berkeley Auto Repair

Electric Vehicles Will Be Noisier at Low Speeds Sept. 2019 We all know that at low speeds hybrids and electric vehicles are very quiet. As a result, they are involved in disproportionately large number of accidents involving pedestrians. To fix the problem, European Union mandated that starting in 2021 new electric vehicles will have to have to be equipped with a “noise maker”, which is supposed to turn on any time the vehicle travels at less than 12mph. In the United States, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration proposed a rule that could allow for different sound options for EVs. Nissan apparently hired a sound studio to design the sound for the Nissan electric vehicles. We will not include a link and thus save you a few seconds of your life – the EV sound created by the sound studio sounds... like a car engine. Still, it’s nice to know that soon we will have audible warning that a hybrid or EV is behind

Ford Recalls 483,325 Trucks and SUVs in the US Sept 2019 Ford just announced that it is recalling around half a million trucks and SUVs. Apparently the third pawl required for seat-back strength may be missing in some vehicles. In case of a crash, the recliner mechanism might be unable to restrain passenger adequately, so it increases the risk of injury. Ford spokesman said that Ford is not aware of any injuries at this point. The affected vehicles include not only 2018-2020 F-150, 2019-2020 F-250, F-350, F-450, and F-550 Super Duty pickup trucks, but also 2018-2019 Ford Explorer and 2019-2020 Expedition vehicles equipped with driver and/or passenger's manual front seat back recliner mechanisms. It also includes some of the latest 2020 Ford Explorer and Lincoln Aviator models vehicles equipped with rear outboard seats and manual seat back recliner mechanisms. If you own one of these vehicles, you should be receiving a notification from Ford in the mail. If you do not, call you ... read more

What a Winter season it's been! Looks like this rainy season might go on record as one of the wettest ever! What a great reminder to keep our cars in peak shape, so we are able to handle any emergency or event. Right now, I'd say your car is low on washer fluid, might need new wiper blades (yes, there's still more rain in the forecast!), and could likely need an alignment due to the poor condition of our roads. Tires should also be inspected for wear, and any potential damage. Call us for an appointment today

Across the nation, it's been an exciting winter, and here in California we've certainly had our share. While the entire state didn't feel the effects of the “Polar Vortex”, it did make it cold for some of us! I'm sure you're as happy as I am to see warmer weather coming our way! Before we get into spring, it's a good time to check the fluids in your vehicle and make sure they are where they should be. It's also time to begin thinking about the seasonal needs of your car or truck; from filter service, to oil change, to any other services you may have missed in the last few thousand miles. Come on in, and let us get your vehicle ready for spring and summer

The new year is here, so it's time to make those resolutions to help keep the car in better shape next year. In the spirit of 2019, here are 19 car care tips to help you make this year the best yet! Get to know your owner's manual. There's valuable information in there, like tire pressures, maintenance schedules, and other manufacturer recommendations. Since we mentioned “maintenance schedule,” set one up at with us, now you'll be alerted to upcoming items that need attention, and you'll have scheduled inspections to prevent on-the-road breakdowns. Watch your tire pressures. The amount of air (or today, nitrogen) in your tires can affect how your car drives, the fuel mileage, braking distance…and of course, tread wear. So, keep pressures where they should be, and your ride will be safe, and smooth. Inspect your air filter regularly and replace it if it's dirty or decomposing. If you're in a dry, dusty area, or wet conditions often, you ... read more

We're now well into the holiday season, and we all have many places to go, and people to see! But, weather is now a factor and a vehicle that isn't “weather-ready” can cause delay or even lost opportunities to get where you want to go. We can do a simple inspection to make sure your car can get you to your destinations. Some of the items that should be inspected are your cooling system, fuel system, tires, brakes and the age and condition of your serpentine belt. Once you know the condition of these items, you can decide what needs attention NOW, and what can wait until your next service. This will give you the peace of mind that keeps you on the road, instead of sitting at home, or even worse, being stranded out in the cold. Be proactive and KNOW where you stand! A quick appointment will make sure your holidays are trouble-free when it comes to your vehicle, and your peace of mind might be a real gift that lasts well into the new year

November is Car Winterizing Month If you live in a climate that sees extensive rain or snow and cold temperatures, you need to consider Winterizing your vehicle. This is a series of steps that are designed to make driving safer for your family during these colder months. It can even make your car less likely to be in an accident caused by someone else! The areas that require attention are: Brakes: Your brakes need to be inspected for fluid leaks, and for amount of useful pad life. Tires: Tires should have adequate tread depth, and should not show any cracks or broken belts. Tire pressure should be checked, and should be checked once a week. Cooling System: Flush, and refill system with new antifreeze. Make sure thermostat and other components are operational. Charging System: Check for operation, and make sure battery is in great shape. Filters: Start with new oil and filter, and have your tech check all other filters, too. Engine Tune: Make sure your engine is operating proper ... read more

With forest fires being a constant possibility, preparedness is vital. It's important to have your cabin air filter inspected and changed regularly by Oceanworks Berkeley, a good rule of thumb is to change your filter during every other oil change! This simple, yet important, service will help ensure vehicle longevity as well as clean air inside the car. With the amount of smoke and debris caused by forest fires in the Berkeley area, it is very likely that cabin air filters in the local area will be severely affected. Cabin air filters are the first line of defense against contaminants that reduce vehicle cabin air quality. A cabin air filter should NOT be cleaned and reinstalled. Instead, it should be replaced every 12,000 to 15,000 miles or per the owner's manual, or more frequently in areas experiencing heavy smoke, debris and contaminants, such as areas closer to the woods. The cabin air filter is responsible for cleaning the air entering the passenger compartment. Under ... read more