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Carworks of Longmont is now a Napa Gold Certified Auto Care Center!

As a Gold-Certified Napa Auto Care Center, Carworks of Longmont can extend added benefits to our customers who need comprehensive auto services backed by the Napa Auto brand.

Longmont’s Auto Maintenance and Repair Specialist

When you partner with Carworks for auto maintenance and auto repairs, not only will you receive trusted services from a reputable auto care center, but our designation as a Napa Gold Certified Auto Care center will provide you with the following benefits:

● Established Business: Founded in 1993, Carworks of Longmont has provided over 28 years of dedicated auto maintenance and repair services for customers throughout Longmont and the surrounding areas. 

● Employees ASE Certified Technicians: Carworks delivers service excellence and quality workmanship through staffing experienced auto technicians that are certified by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE).

● Provides Digital Inspections: Through conducting vehicle inspections electronically, our technicians can take videos and photos of the vehicle and send them directly to the customer’s smartphone or other device, along with the inspection report. This tool allows customers to receive valuable information about the health of their vehicle instantly.

● High Customer Satisfaction Rating: At Carworks of Longmont, we strive to provide the best in auto care. Check out our reviews to see how customers rate us.

● Offers EasyPay Financing: If you need to finance the costs associated with your auto repairs, Carworks now offers financing with the Napa EasyPay Credit Card.

● Offers 36,000 Mile / 36 Month Nationwide Warranty: Customers who partner with Carworks for their auto repair needs will receive a 36,000 mile/36-month warranty on all qualifying auto services.

Carworks of Longmont sets the Gold Standard in auto care for customers throughout the Northern Colorado Front Range!

When you need auto services backed by experience and trust, contact Carworks of Longmont and reap the benefits of a Napa Gold Certified Auto Care center. We look forward to assisting you with all your auto maintenance and repair needs!

Faulty Alternator

The Effects of a Faulty Alternator

The alternator is an important component to your car functioning properly. Not only does it supply electrical power to your vehicle’s electrical system, it keeps your battery charged. Although your car may run for a brief time on its battery alone, without the alternator, the battery would eventually lose its charge, leaving you with a lifeless vehicle. A new alternator can last, on average, for 8 to 12 years, but replacing one can get expensive. If you feel that a faulty alternator might be the problem with your vehicle’s performance, the experts at Carworks of Longmont have the equipment and training to properly diagnose and make any necessary repairs.

How to recognize a faulty alternator?

  • Indicator Light: Most vehicles have an icon that resembles a battery. This typically appears, or lights up, upon starting your car but should turn off once the car is running. If the light, or icon, stays on, this could be a sign that your alternator is having issues.
  • Dimming Lights: If the alternator is becoming weak, you may notice the vehicle’s headlights, dashboard displays, or interior lights becoming weak, too. It’s common for these lights to flicker or become dim if the alternator is going bad.
  • Sounds and smell: When an alternator starts to go bad, you may hear sounds coming from the motor. Such sounds are usually described as a whining or growling noise. You may also notice the smell of burning rubber.
  • Weak or dead battery: The alternative supplies power to the battery. If the battery won’t stay charged, or is weak, this could be an indication that the alternator is failing.
  • Difficulty starting car: A battery is often the cause of a vehicle not starting, but if the battery has been tested, or can be ruled out as the problem, then the alternator could be the root of the problem. If your vehicle won’t stay started, or tends to die, this could also indicate an issue with the alternator.

If you are experiencing any of these issues with your car, it’s probably a good time to get your alternator checked. Carworks of Longmont will perform a comprehensive diagnosis of your alternator and its components, and make any necessary repairs to get you back on the road.

Spring is the Time for Car Air Conditioning Maintenance

car air conditioning maintenance LongmontWhen faced with the additional yard and home expenses at this time of year, it’s hard for car owners to remember that maintenance will always cost less than repairs. However, spring is the best time to ensure your car’s three main A/C components (the gas, compressor and seals) are in tip-top shape before summer arrives! Carworks of Longmont provides comprehensive car air conditioning maintenance at an affordable rate that leaves our customers feeling like it was money well spent!

Spring Car Air Conditioning Maintenance

  • Compressor: Should the compressor quit, both the drier and condensor coils will also need to be replaced at the same time for a very expensive repair. Adding oil to the system during spring maintenance ensures the compressor is lubricated to run properly.
  • Refrigerant: The old R12 gas had bigger molecules than the now required R134A refrigerant, which means that today’s gas leaks out of seals and hoses faster. If updating an older model vehicle to use the new R134A gas, hoses will likely need replaced to comply with it.
  • Seals: One of the main reasons to perform air conditioner maintenance in the spring is because the extended non-use over the winter can cause seals to dry out. Seals need oil and conditioner in the gas to prevent leakage.
  • Hoses: With age, hoses will deteriorate and eventually crack. An annual inspection will catch any signs of worrisome wear before it becomes a problem in the middle of summer when you need A/C the most!

In addition to an annual service, running the A/C for ten or so minutes every month (even during winter) will help keep it in top operating condition. Also, spraying an A/C deodorizer into the intake will kill any bacteria in the vents which start growing when the cabin air filter becomes clogged with water and dirt. Scheduling an appointment now at Carworks in Longmont for car air conditioning maintenance will make sure you’re ready to drive in the warmer weather that’s just around the corner!

Trouble Starting in Cold Weather? A New Car Battery May Be the Answer!

new car battery LongmontDid you know that it takes at least 20 minutes to fully recharge a car battery after it provides the power to start the engine? The burst of cranking power substantially drains the battery and it takes awhile for the alternator to bring it back up to full strength. Consider this with the long list of potential strains on your battery in cold weather and it’s no wonder that your car might have problems starting in winter! Let Carworks of Longmont test your current battery to ensure you won’t have to deal with a dead car in freezing temperatures, and if you need a new car battery- we have a great selection of durable and affordable options.

Winter Problems that Lead to Needing a New Car Battery

  1. Slower Internal Processing– In freezing weather the starter will require more power because the electricity-generating process slows when the thermometer drops.
  2. Thickened Engine Oil– Cold temperatures turn engine oil to sludge and make it harder for the battery to push the thickened oil through all the internal components involved in startup.
  3. Increased Use of Lights & Wipers– With the shorter days and more rain/snow, headlights and windshield wipers are used more often in winter, which drain the battery.
  4. Depleted Reserves from Summer– Both extreme hot and cold temperatures are damaging to car batteries, so your battery may already be operating at a reduced capacity from overheating the past summer.

A few tips to prevent the unwelcome surprise of a dead battery are: have it load tested before winter; keep the terminals clean and make sure the cables are secure; drive long enough for a solid recharge; and don’t leave electronics plugged in when engine is off. The average life of a battery is 3-5 years, so if your vehicle is due for a new battery, consider investing in one with the highest cold-cranking-amps rating suggested by the manufacturer. When you need a new car battery fast and one that doesn’t cost a fortune, Carworks of Longmont has a high-quality and long-lasting NAPA battery to fit your vehicle’s needs!

Save Big Bucks with a Cheap Oil Change in Longmont

cheap oil change LongmontThe top two fluids that a car needs to run smoothly are fuel and oil. While oil is an essential factor in proper engine operation, it is not designed to last very long. Depending on the vehicle and type of oil, the recommended interval between oil changes lies somewhere between every 3,000 to 10,000 miles. However, if you are driving in extreme temperatures, on dirt roads or in a stop-and-go pattern for extended periods of time, it is recommended to change your oil more frequently than the manufacturer’s guideline. With an oil change being such an inexpensive service, it’s better to play it safe than be sorry- bring your car into Carworks of Longmont for a cheap yet valuable oil change (only $14.95 for first time customers)!

Expensive Risks of Skipping a Cheap Oil Change

  • Particle Corrosion: High temperatures produced inside the engine will eventually cause oil to breakdown and result in parts starting to corrode due to the settling of particles. This thermal breakdown decreases the oil’s ability to dissipate particulates, which will then rub against moving parts and cause premature wear.
  • Sludge Buildup: This condition develops when oil starts to turn to gel and therefore cannot flow through the engine as it is supposed to do. When the crankshafts, bearings, camshafts and other valve train components are not getting the lubrication they need to operate properly, major damage can result and even require a total engine rebuild.
  • Engine Damage: Mechanics will perform a leak down or vacuum test will determine if neglected maintenance has caused damage. Sometimes skipping an oil change will not cause any problems but more often, some level of wear will result and could lead to a sooner-than-expected part replacement.

With an oil change being such a quick and affordable maintenance service, it pays to do it on a regular basis and prevent costly repairs! Make an appointment today at Carworks of Longmont for a cheap yet thorough oil change that includes a 16-point courtesy inspection- and if you are a new customer, you’ll pay only $14.95!

How to Find a High Quality Auto Shop in Longmont

auto shop LongmontWelcome to our new blog! Carworks of Longmont Auto Repair is a locally-owned family business that uses state-of-the-art equipment, offers affordable, high-quality services and excellent customer service. But an auto shop is only as good as its mechanics, and Carworks of Longmont is proud to have on staff some of the most experienced and knowledgeable automotive professionals in the industry!

Indicators of a Quality Auto Shop in Longmont

  • NAPA AutoCare Center: Only independent businesses with proven integrity, qualifications and expertise are eligible to be designated as a NAPA AutoCare Center. As a member of the vast NAPA network, AutoCare Centers have access to the industry’s most extensive inventory so repairs are expedited.
  • ASE Certified Technicians: Tested and certified by the independent non-profit, National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence, ASE-certified technicians are up to date on the latest methods and tools needed to service ever-changing vehicle technology.
  • High Quality Parts: For over 80 years, NAPA has been producing dependable parts that match or improve the quality and reliability of original equipment. For example, NAPA Gold Oil Filters catch 45% more dirt than ordinary models so your car’s engine will last longer!
  • Extensive Warranties: Qualifying repairs and service work, including parts and labor, are backed by NAPA’s 24 month, 24,000 mile Nationwide Peace of Mind Warranty. This warranty is honored by the 14,000 NAPA locations across the country so you’re covered just about anywhere you go!

Steve Smith, Owner of Carworks for almost 25 years, says “Our goal is to exceed your expectations and become your one-stop repair auto shop.” For all of the reasons listed above and the testimonials of thousands of Longmont clients, we are confident that you will also be completely satisfied with the service you receive at Carworks of Longmont- let us prove it by making an appointment today!

Auto Repair Specials

At Carworks of Longmont, we know how busy the holiday season is and the pressure that is put on your budget. We want to help you keep your vehicle in top condition and make your service experience hassle-free.

We offer the convenience of early bird and night-owl drop-box service, local shuttle service to your home or office and  free service reminders.

*Visit our auto repair specials page to print and redeem:

  • First Time Customers: Lube & oil change with a 16-point courtesy inspection only $14.95.
  • $20 off any Invoice Over $400! Applies to Parts & Labor.
  • $10 off any Invoice Over $200! Applies to Parts & Labor.

When you have an unexpected car expense don’t delay, Call Carworks today!