Toyota gas pedals sticking, people in Toyota Camry’s, Lexus ES300 crashing and burning… you’ve seen the reports on the news and the web. How are we to feel about the automotive giant? More importantly if we drive a Camry, Matrix, Avalon, Highlander, Tundra, or Sequoia in the 2007 to 2010 range, should we be afraid?

First let me say that Toyota is a very strong and conscientious company. All vehicles have problems, and Toyota is not only concerned but actively fixing the problems in the vehicle that apply.

The accelerators in question –  are made by CTS Corp, based in Elkhart, Indiana. While CTS makes throttle pedal assemblies for other automakers, Toyota and Ford are the only companies thus far to announce production stoppages.

ToyoMotors:
http://www.toyomotors.com

Phoenix Car Repair Pros:
http://www.phoenixautorepairpros.com

Car Repair Blog
http://www.car-repairphoenix.com

When doing a timing belt on a Toyota, Honda, or Subaru vehicle… Should you replace the idler and tensioner bearings at the same time?

At the very least they should be inspected for noise and excess play while timing belt is apart. The fact is when performing this repair on a client vehicle it would be beneficial to replace all timing belt related items while the front of the engine is apart and exposed. Note the pros and cons.

Pros

• Prevents premature timing belt failure.
• Makes it so that your mechanic is not going back into the front of the engine for repairs for 4 – 6 years.
• definitely saves on labor costs on each individual item.

Cons

• The parts cost adds up quickly, so upfront expense can quickly reach a thousand dollars or more.

 

To my own clients I always present what I call a Timing Belt Kit. This includes: timing belt, waterpump, cam and crank seals, oil pump seals if applicable, and then inspect all other items for signs of wear. I do this because I have found that the market will typically not bear the added expense of all components on the front end, it is a simple truth. If an additional issue is noticed while the engine is apart the client is advised accordingly.

On my own personal vehicles I always replace every part related to the timing belt. That would include the Timing belt itself, along with waterpump, cam and crank seals, idler bearings, tensioner bearings, oil pump seals and gaskets, tensioner springs and shocks, drive belts, etc.

I guess what it comes down to is whether we are willing to invest today to save in the future… you be the judge by examining the following generic Toyota/Honda/Subaru price comparison.

Fully Loaded Timing belt Kit Complete– $887.00

  

Same vehicle with each item repaired separately.

Timing belt- $399                           

Waterpump- $475                             

Cam Seals- $425

Crank Seal- $425

Oil pump seal- $425

Idler Bearing- $405

Tensioner and bearing- $425

Drive Belts- $135

All of the above listed items will eventually go bad if not replaced with timing belt, however they may not necessarily go bad prior to the next timing belt replacement interval. Since you have no control as to how long they will last, and they cost over $3000 when all items are done separately… It makes perfect sense to the individual who plans on keeping their vehicle for several years to replace all items, including the tensioner and idler bearings while doing the timing belt job.

ToyoMotors:
http://www.toyomotors.com

Phoenix Car Repair Pros:
http://www.phoenixautorepairpros.com

Car Repair Blog
http://www.car-repairphoenix.com

Ok we all know Honda builds a great vehicle right? Well why are there so many reports of automatic transmission problems with the crv, civics, odyssey and others? I ask this because we recently had a client bring in their 2002 Honda Crv with the concern that at lower speeds, usually cruising at around 38-45 mph the vehicle has a shudder in the front end. This is not the first time that I have experienced this. 

Honda transmission problems.

After carefully examining all of the transmission and engine data I was able to isolate the problem to the torque converter lock-up area of the transmission. The problem was caused by clutch material deterioration, which caused general system contamination and overheating, and gradual torque converter failure. 

 The fix for this problem at this stage is transmission removal, disassembly and complete rebuild,  a little over $2000 dollars, maybe more. Sometimes if this condition exists for a period of time internal “hard part” or shaft damage will occur which only adds expense. 

 This particular crv owner was perplexed, because he only has 102,067 miles on it and has kept up with the services. These services were taken care of from the beginning with the two different Honda dealerships. I have seen failures in as low as 55,000 miles… so why a transmission failure on a vehicle that is supposed to last 200-300,000 miles without major rebuild? 

 First let me say… Honda builds a very good transmission! The 2002 Honda CRV transmission is one that could very well last 200k plus! However there is a catch… the printed recommendation and some dealer recommendations on fluid change and general service is incorrect and not in your best interest. These transmissions will last a long time if you service them properly. That means a complete flush with the proper fluid every 20,0000 miles, and definitely no later than 30,000 miles. NO DRAIN AND REFILLS, many dealers are selling this as an alternative service. This type of service can be likened to taking a few ounces of dirty water from a full glass of dirty water and then refilling with a few ounces of clean… in the end you still have a dirty glass of water! Draining a couple of quarts from a system that holds over twelve does not help to maintain the fluid integrity. The root cause of this transmission failure was not having frequent enough transmission fluid service, the result was this fluid started to eat the clutch material. 

 It seems some manufacturers are more concerned with JD Power and Associates “cost of vehicle ownership” awards, and selling you a new car every few years, rather than keeping the vehicle running good for many years. However, if you really want to keep your Honda on the road and trouble-free for years to come, service the transmission every 2 years or 20k miles whichever comes first. I promise, this will be money well spent.

ToyoMotors:
http://www.toyomotors.com

Phoenix Car Repair Pros:
http://www.phoenixautorepairpros.com

Car Repair Blog
http://www.car-repairphoenix.com

The Master List- Auto Repair and other Services Phoenix, Arizona

Alright after years of research, trial and error, interviews with shops and their clients… I have compiled a “Master” list of the best auto services companies in Phoenix, Arizona. These answer directly to me! If you ever have a problem with one of my referrals I will personally arbitrate to resolution.

Auto Repair and Service Phoenix
Geesey Bros. Automotive Inc.
dba. ToyoMotors Auto Care
2818 E. Bell Rd.
Phoenix, Arizona 85032
602-971-8137
http://www.toyomotors.com
Contact: Naomi, Neil, Caitlin
Years in Business: 29
Master Technicians: 4
Specialty: Toyota, Lexus, Acura, Honda, Subaru, all makes and models welcome.

Auto Paint and Body Repair, Painting
Full Circle Auto Body
Address: 2029 W. Ironwood Dr.
Address: Phoenix, Arizona
Phone: 602-870-0579
Website: http://www.fullcircleautobody.com
Contact: Tony, Lisa
Years in Business: 20+
Specialty: All vehicles welcome, specializing in luxury vehicle repair, vintage restoration, hotrods, and custom paint.

Cleaning and detail Services
Name
Address:
Address:
Phone:
Website:
Contact:
Years in Business:
Technicians:
Specialty:

Window tint, home tinting
Arizona Sunbusters
Address: Mobile
Phone: 480-593-2259
Website: http://www.arizonasunbusters.com
Contact: Bryan
Years in Business: 20+
Specialty: Auto tint, House and home tinting.

Auto & Truck Towing Services
Address:
Address:
Phone:
Website:
Contact:
Years in Business:
Technicians:
Specialty:

Automatic Transmission Repair
State to State Transmissions
Address:
Address:
Phone:
Website:
Contact:
Years in Business:
Technicians:
Specialty:

Automotive Windshield Repair and Replacement
Address:
Address:
Phone:
Website:
Contact:
Years in Business:
Technicians:
Specialty:

Home and Auto Insurance
Address:
Address:
Phone:
Website:
Contact:
Years in Business:
Technicians:
Specialty:

Automotive Accounting CPA
Address:
Address:
Phone:
Website:
Contact:
Years in Business:
Technicians:
Specialty:

Tire and Wheel Replacement and Service
Address:
Address:
Phone:
Website:
Contact:
Years in Business:
Technicians:
Specialty:

Auto Repair Sales – Training Software
http://www.eautoview.com

Auto Repair Management Software
Fasttrack

ToyoMotors:
http://www.toyomotors.com

Phoenix Car Repair Pros:
http://www.phoenixautorepairpros.com

Car Repair Blog
http://www.car-repairphoenix.com

In the last few years this question has come up many times? I say in the last few years because up until around 2004 most vehicle manufacturers not only recommended, but their dealerships strongly urged a transmission flush service every 2 years or 30,000 miles whichever came first. This has become the norm in the automotive service and repair industry. Then along came long-life transmission fluids, actually these have been around for years, and now the dealerships are saying 80,000 or even 100,000 miles in between services. Maybe you have noticed that the 30,000 and 60,000 mile services have gone down considerably in price and services performed since 2004, this is especially true in the Toyota – Lexus, and Honda – Acura line of vehicle.

 The only thing that has really changed is the dealer and manufacturer mind-set. They simply have changed their focus to vehicle sales instead of service and maintenance. Most do not care how long your vehicle lasts, they are expecting even hoping that you will trade it in every few years, thus never suffering the consequences of poor vehicle maintenance. 

Dirty fluid (41k miles) vs. New long life fluid

So what has research in the field shown as to when it is best to perform automatic transmission flush services? Time and again the same answer is held true, the best way to maintain your vehicle’s automatic transmission is to have a competent repair shop fully flush all of the fluid with  a flush machine every 2 years or 30,000 miles whichever comes first. Many of my Lexus customers are very surprised when they come to me for the first time, after having the dealer perform the 30,000 mile service, and I show them what their transmission fluid looks like when you do not do it every 30,000 miles. (See picture of Lexus Long-life fluid after only 41,686 miles, normal driving.)

A typical fluid flush with long life fluid is going to be somewhere in the neighborhood of $160 US. However my experience is that when this type of service is kept up regularly it will save you literally thousands of dollars in the long run, and give your transmission trouble free miles well into the 200,000 maybe even 300,000 miles! A good investment indeed.

For those of you who do not keep your vehicles that long, lack of service may not affect you in the 2-3 years that you drive this vehicle, however it will affect the vehicle and the planet in due time. Benefits to you are; stronger resale value of a well-maintained car or truck, and the “green aspect” of keeping it out of the wrecking yard as it begins to change hands.

How often should I change my Engine oil and filter?

How often should you have your oil and filter changed? The answers are all over the place, most mechanics and auto repair centers tell you 3 months or 3,000 miles, some dealers say 5,000 miles ,while your owner’s manual may indicate your vehicle is fine for 7,500 miles or even more.

Who should you listen to, and what is best for your vehicle? Well, here is some information for you to consider.

One fact that we all can agree on is the importance of regular oil changes to prolong the life of your engine. But just how regular oil and filter  changes need to be varies due to several factors.

First to consider is driving conditions, from normal to severe and everything in between. Toyota, Lexus, Honda, and Acura and most other vehicle owners manuals usually have two different maintenance schedules based on these definitions :

a) Normal- allowing for less frequent servicing.

Normal driving conditions – are trips over 10 miles, lightly cruising at moderate temperatures and loads, in a relatively clean-air environment. If your driving habits fit this category, you may not need your oil changed as often.

b) Severe- requiring heavier service.

Severe driving conditions- consists of short or frequent trips less than 10 miles, extreme outdoor temperatures, stop-and-go city driving or extensive idling in traffic, towing or heavy loads, and a dusty or polluted environment. If any of this description fits your driving profile, then your engine would require more frequent oil changes.

Many drivers tell me, “I don’t drive all that much, only around town,” assuming that they are in the normal or even lighter category. However as you can see by the above definitions, that simply is not true.

5,000 mile intervals- premature engine failure!

Toyota and Lexus paid out millions of dollars in warranty repair costs recently, related to engine failure and severe engine damage due to vehicle owners following the 5,000 mile oil change rule under all climates and driving conditions.

How do these driving conditions affect the engine oil? Driving in extreme climates, hot or cold, under heavy loads, or stop and go traffic, requires more fuel and this excess fuel can result in unburned fuel slipping past the engine piston rings, and contaminating the oil. Additionally normal condensation in the engine crankcase does not sufficiently burn off when the engine is not allowed to reach and/or stay at operating temperature due to short driving trips. This moisture accumulation causes sludge or oil gelling buildup over time, which causes gradual damage to the engine.

Now here’s some figures that may be of interest. Based upon driving 100,000 miles, following the 3,000-mile interval will cost you on average $600 – $900 total. Increasing the interval to 5,000 miles decreases total cost to $400 – $500. Then to 7,500 mile interval oil changes cost to about $250 – $325. The greatest possible savings are $650 which, when divided over an 8-year period, averages out to a little more than $6 per month, extremely low-cost insurance for a  $6000 replacement engine.

For  most of us, due to driving and climate conditions, the best rule of thumb is 3 months or 3,000 mile oil and filter change intervals when using a good original equipment oil filter and good quality standard oil. If 4 or 5 months and 5,000 miles fits better into your busy life style then switch to full synthetic oils. Keep in mind that in addition to the oil change a good service center is doing the vehicle health check-up, along with lubrication of chassis, top off of fluids, and necessary adjustments as part of the service. All of this leads to a longer lasting vehicle, problem free driving experience, and increased resale value of your vehicle.

For those of you who are looking at the “green” aspect of extended oil changes, keep in mind that 96% of oil drained from motor vehicles and even the oil filters are recycled.

ToyoMotors:
http://www.toyomotors.com

Phoenix Car Repair Pros:
http://www.phoenixautorepairpros.com

Car Repair Blog
http://www.car-repairphoenix.com

I get asked this question all the time… What mileage should I replace my air filter on my Toyota or Honda vehicle?

I understand why one may ask this, as it has become common practice to assign a specific mileage interval to air filter replacement, in auto dealerships and chain stores, where low-cost labor  has produced a  more cookie cutter service, as opposed to actually inspecting and servicing vehicles.

This one was in for 15,022 miles.

My answer is this: Mileage has very little to do with the engine air filter and cabin air filters contamination levels and replacement interval. More important than mileage are factors such as the conditions under which vehicle is driven, air quality, and road surfaces etc.  In some Toyota and Honda vehicles I have replaced filters after only 4000 miles when driven under very dusty conditions. I have also seen filters that look good after 20,000 miles!

They should be inspected often, perhaps at oil change intervals, and replaced when dirty. It is good practice to do a visual inspection for contaminates, and also tap air filter on the ground to see how dusty it is. If it is only lightly contaminated, tap it on the ground a few more times, and reinstall into vehicle for next service. Compressed air with regulated pressure can also be used to blow contaminates from filter if available.

Since air conditioning filters are on most modern vehicles and more difficult to access, it is common practice to replace it at the same time as engine air filter. Another reason this is good practice is because labor involved in checking AC filter is not always cost-effective for simple inspection.

Bottom line if you go by dealer or factory recommendations, which are generalized for all drivers and all climates and conditions, you may be going too far for best filtration. For best service practice have your mechanic inspect often.

ToyoMotors:
http://www.toyomotors.com

Phoenix Car Repair Pros:
http://www.phoenixautorepairpros.com

Car Repair Blog
http://www.car-repairphoenix.com