Purchasing a used car can be stressful, but having a pre-purchase used car inspection can help alleviate that stress and help you determine if the vehicle is the right choice for you. A pre-purchase used car inspection performed by a professional auto repair shop is the best way to evaluate the vehicle and identify issues that could end up costing you more than you bargained for. If you have a used car in mind, bring it over to Carworks of Longmont for a comprehensive pre-purchase inspection before you buy.

Carworks of Longmont is a trusted auto repair shop providing quality auto maintenance and repair services for customers throughout the Northern Colorado Front Range. Our ASE Certified auto technicians are highly trained and qualified and service virtually any vehicle, regardless of make or model. When it comes to pre-purchase used car inspections, we have the necessary tools and specialized equipment to perform a comprehensive diagnostic to ensure your potential investment is worth it.

At Carworks of Longmont, our used vehicle inspections include:

• Safety and Emissions
• Belts and Hoses
• Computer Processors
• Drive Train
• Exhaust System
• Undercarriage
• Ignition Check
• Compression
• Electrical System
• Differential
• Steering and Suspension
• Transmission
• All Accessory Check
• Recalls
• And More…

When purchasing a used car, it’s always important to do your research. There are several websites, such as the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, that will provide valuable information about vehicles, including recalls. Carfax and Edmunds are also great sources for checking the car’s history and value. Ask the seller questions about the vehicle, thoroughly inspect it, and make sure to take it for a test drive, and if the used car seems like a good choice for you, bring it over to Carworks for a pre-purchase used car inspection before you seal the deal.

If you live in Longmont, CO or the surrounding areas and have a used car purchase in mind, contact the auto maintenance and repair specialists at Carworks and schedule a pre-purchase used vehicle inspection today!

As any Colorado driver knows, a vehicle must pass an emissions test in order for it to be registered and legally driven in the state. Emissions tests are conducted to help mitigate the effect of automotive pollutants and help keep our air clean. If your car fails an emissions test, it indicates that your engine isn’t performing at optimal levels and that repairs may be necessary to correct the problem.

Carworks is Longmont’s auto repair specialist!

If you live in Longmont, CO or the surrounding areas and your vehicle has failed an emissions test, bring it over to Carworks of Longmont and get the auto services you need to pass the test and get back on the road.

Carworks of Longmont is a locally owned and operated auto repair shop providing quality auto maintenance and auto repair services since 1993. Our experienced ASE Certified auto technicians are experienced in the service of virtually any make or model vehicle and will be able to identify and correct the cause of your failed emissions test.

What Causes a Failed Emissions Test?

There can be several reasons why a vehicle fails emissions testing, including:

• Check Engine Light Displayed
• Visible Smoke
• Missing or Loose Gas Cap
• Old Motor Oil
• Excess Fuel in Air/Fuel Mixture
• Emissions Exceed Allowable Limit
• Faulty Spark Plugs
• Dirty Air Filter

Once the emissions test is completed, the testing facility should provide you with a Vehicle Inspection Report (VIR) outlining what failed through the course of the testing process. This detailed report will help your auto mechanic better determine the route of the problem. In most cases, minor repairs are all that is needed to successfully help your car pass the test.

Regardless of the cause of your failed emissions test, Carworks of Longmont will use state-of-the-art equipment to perform a diagnosis of your vehicle and make the necessary recommendations and repairs to ensure your vehicle is compliant with local and state laws.

When your car doesn’t meet EPA standards and fails Colorado’s emission testing, Carworks of Longmont and our team of auto repair experts can help. Give us a call and schedule an appointment today. We offer trusted recommendations and affordable solutions for all your auto maintenance and repair service needs.

A radiator flush is a process to remove sediment and rust from the radiator and clean your vehicle’s cooling system. The reason for a radiator flush is to make certain that the cooling system protects your engine and prevents corrosion from contaminants, such as rust. Regular radiator flush, or coolant flush services will help to prolong the life of the radiator, water pump, heater core, and other components of the cooling system.

The steps of a radiator flush include:

1. Draining the coolant from the radiator.
2. Adding a cleaner to the coolant system to eliminate contaminants.
3. Draining the radiator to remove contaminants and rust.
4. Refilling the radiator with new antifreeze and conditioners to protect against corrosion.

Depending on your vehicle, a radiator flush service is recommended every 30,000 to 60,000 miles. Referring to your car’s owner manual is the best way to ensure that your car receives its necessary preventative maintenance services on schedule. When it is time to service your vehicle, Carworks of Longmont offers radiator flush, maintenance, and repair services you can trust.

Carworks of Longmont has provided quality auto maintenance and repair services for customers in Longmont and the surrounding areas for almost 30 years. Our team of ASE Certified auto technicians are highly trained and qualified to service virtually any make or model vehicle. We will perform a thorough inspection of your car and offer trusted recommendations and auto services to ensure your vehicle performs at optimal levels.

Maintaining your car’s cooling system will help prolong its working components and prevent the engine from freezing and overheating. A radiator flush is an inexpensive maintenance service that can make all the difference in protecting your vehicle’s engine from damages that can easily be avoided.

If you need a radiator flush service, regular maintenance or auto repair, Carworks of Longmont offers trusted auto maintenance and repair services you can depend on. Give the auto experts at Carworks of Longmont a call and schedule your service appointment today!

Having your vehicle’s oil and filter changed on a routine schedule is one of the most affordable and important preventative maintenance services needed to keep your car operating proficiently. As with gasoline, the vehicle requires oil to keep it running, so staying on schedule with regular oil and filter changes, per your automobile’s recommendations, is imperative.  

Carworks of Longmont offers professional preventative maintenance and auto repair services on virtually any make or model vehicle or light duty truck. Our team of ASE Certified auto technicians perform oil and filter change services using top quality oil or synthetic oil and Napa oil filters and make your service experience hassle-free.

The recommendations for oil and filter change services can vary based on the type of vehicle and oil, with older models being every 3,000 miles and newer vehicles every 5,000 to 7,000 miles. When a car is frequently exposed to extreme conditions, such as stop-and-go repetition or harsh temperatures, it’s suggested that the oil and filter changes be performed more often.

Regular preventative maintenance can help maintain your vehicle’s performance and extend the life of the engine, but when you overlook these services, it can put you and your vehicle at risk. The more common problems associated with neglecting oil and filter change services are as follows:

Reduced Gas Mileage 

Over time, oil breaks down causing the engine to work much harder. When the engine is over worked, it uses more fuel, which reduces gas mileage. The end result-more money spent at the pumps.

Particle Corrosion 

The high temperatures produced by the engine can cause oil to break down. When thermal breakdown occurs, it causes particles to settle and affects the oil’s ability to properly disperse them, resulting in the untimely wear of moving parts.

Sludge Build-up 

When old oil starts to congeal, sludge build-up occurs. Since thick, viscous oil can’t flow through the engine, the crankshafts, bearings, camshafts, and other valve train parts are denied the lubrication required to function correctly. When this happens, it can cause engine damage, resulting in costly repairs, and in worse cases, the need for an engine rebuild or replacement.

Premature Part Replacements

Ignoring the maintenance schedule recommended by your vehicle’s manufacturer can lead to rapid wear of your engine’s components, resulting in untimely part replacements.

Voided Car Warranty 

A vehicle’s manufacturer or other warranty provider usually requires regular preventative maintenance services to sustain the validity of the warranty. In other words, if you skip too many oil and filter changes, it can result in a voided warranty and leave you stuck with the repair bill.

Routine oil changes are a fast and affordable maintenance service that can make all the difference in your car’s overall performance, extend engine life, and mitigate costly repairs. If it’s time for your vehicle’s scheduled oil and filter change, or other maintenance service, call Carworks of Longmont and request your service today!

Carworks of Longmont has provided dependable auto preventative maintenance and repair services for drivers in Northern Colorado since 1993. Whether an oil and filter change or complex auto repair, you can trust the team at Carworks for all your auto service needs.

Auto maintenance service is essential for keeping your car performing at optimal levels and extending its time on the road. Not only does regularly scheduled maintenance make a difference in the way your car performs, but it can also help to prevent unexpected breakdowns, or more costly repair issues later on. So, don’t put off your vehicle’s maintenance service, bring it over to Carworks of Longmont for all your preventative maintenance needs.

Carworks is a locally owned and operated auto repair shop providing quality auto maintenance and repairs for satisfied customers in Longmont and the surrounding areas for nearly 3 decades. Our trusted team of ASE Certified auto technicians are experienced in servicing virtually any make or model of vehicle, and offer these quality preventative auto maintenance services:

• Alignment
• Cabin Air Filter Replacement
• Cooling System
• Differential Service
• Engine Air Filter
• Fuel System
• Oil Change
• Power Brakes
• Serpentine Belt
• Spark Plugs
• Steering
• Timing Belt
• Tire Rotation & Balancing
• Transfer Case Service
• Transmission

The mechanical systems and operating components of a vehicle require regular maintenance to safeguard against more serious problems, such as engine damage brake failure. Servicing your car on a regular maintenance schedule is the best way to keep your car running at its peak.

The experienced team of auto technicians at Carworks of Longmont are fully licensed and insured and are equipped to handle any auto service request. Using state-of-the-art equipment and quality Napa auto parts, you can rest assured that when you choose Carworks for your auto maintenance and repair needs, you will receive dependable auto services you can trust.

If you live in Longmont or the neighboring communities and need a reputable auto repair shop for professional auto maintenance service or auto repairs, contact the team of auto repair specialists at Carworks of Longmont, or stop in and see us today.

Regular brake service is one of the most important measures a car owner can take to ensure a healthy brake system, as brakes are a vital safety component of the vehicle. From maintaining proper fluid levels to replacing brake pads at regular intervals, keeping the car’s brake system in check can make all the difference in the safety of the driver, passengers, and others on the road.

Carworks Longmont provides comprehensive brake repairs and services on all types of disc and drum brake systems. Our ASE certified auto technicians are skilled to service virtually any model of car and light truck. We offer thorough inspections of your brake system and honest recommendations to correct the issues that can compromise the integrity of your brake system.

The most common signs of faulty brakes include:

• Brake Light Indicator:  The brake light indicator on the dashboard, when lit, is the most obvious sign that your brake system should be checked and/or serviced.
• Worn Brake Pads:  Brake pads can easily be inspected for thickness. If your vehicle’s brake pads are less than ¼” thick, it’s time to consider replacing them.
• Loud Noises:  Squeaking, grinding, or squealing noises indicate that your brake system needs immediate attention. At this point, it’s best to get your car to the nearest auto repair shop and have the problem corrected.
• Pulling:  Does your vehicle pull to one side when applying the brakes? If so, this could be a sign of brake fluid leaks, a stuck caliper, or uneven wear of the brake lining. Regardless, it’s time to have your car’s brakes repaired.
• Spongy Brake Pedal:  When the brake pedal goes down to the floor when braking, it shouldn’t. A spongy brake pedal can mean that there is an air or brake fluid leak, or an issue with the master cylinder.
• Burning Odor:  Overheated brakes can produce a strong, burning odor while driving. In this instance, stop driving and give your brakes time to cool off. Get your brake system inspected by a reputable auto mechanic to ensure your car is safe to drive.
• Brake Fluid Leaks:  A car leaking brake fluid will leave a small puddle, when parked, that resembles motor oil. If your vehicle is leaking brake fluid, take it to an auto repair shop to have your brake hose and brake system checked out.

Any sign of a faulty brake system requires immediate attention and repair services to restore proper function of the brakes. An experienced ASE certified auto technician will be able to accurately assess your brake system and perform the necessary maintenance and repair services to ensure optimal performance.

If you live in Longmont or the surrounding areas and need the trusted services of a reputable auto repair shop for brake repairs, call the team at Carworks Longmont. With over 27 years in the industry, you can rest assured you’ll be in good hands with Carworks.

The importance of regular preventative maintenance cannot be stressed enough; however, it’s easy to lose track of your vehicle’s maintenance schedule while trying to juggle work, family, and everything in between. But when regular maintenance is ignored, it can result in serious issues that can prove costly, and one of those issues is engine overheats.

At one point or another, a car’s engine can overheat. Whether the engine is overworked, or the cooling system is compromised, both may result in overheating which can cause major damage, or even worse, a seized engine. Following these simple tips to prevent engine overheats can help you avoid unnecessary damage and expensive repairs.

1. Pay attention to the temperature gauge. Most of us don’t pay attention to the gauges in our cars, especially while driving, but the temperature gauge is an important feature and will let you know if the engine is becoming too hot. If you notice that the temperature of your vehicle is higher than it should be, pull over and pop the hood so that the engine can cool down. If this happens often, it might be a good time to get your cooling system checked out.
2. Put in neutral and rev up the engine. If you notice the temp of your car getting hotter, wait until you can pull over or stop and put the gear in neutral. Start revving the engine so that the fan will create more air and enable the coolant.
3. Check radiator cap and coolant reservoir often. The radiator cap has a big responsibility – maintaining pressure to prevent overheats and boil overs. Make sure the cap is in good working condition and positioned properly on the radiator. As for the coolant, low levels are one of the most common reasons for engine overheats. Make it a habit to check your coolant levels and replenish the reservoir when it starts getting low.
4. Inspect the drive belt. The drive belt is responsible for delivering power to the cooling system. If it becomes damaged or breaks, the circulation of coolant will cease, resulting in an overheated engine. Have the drive belt inspected for wear and tear and get it replaced if there are any signs damage.
5. Turn off the AC and crank up the blower. It can get really hot in the cabin when you use this little trick, but turning off the AC and putting the blower on high will suck heat from the engine and help lower it’s temperature.
6. Safely pull over. When your car’s temperature continues to increase, the best thing you can do to avoid potential damage is to safely pull over and allow time for a cool down. Turn off the engine, open the hood, and wait at least 15 minutes or until the steam has diminished, then pour water over the radiator to further lower the temp. Only do this once the engine has had time to cool off, or you will risk cracking the engine block.
7. Be prepared. It is always a good idea to keep your vehicle stocked with extra water and coolant in case you run into any trouble while traveling. If you do start to overheat, allow time for your car to cool off and add water to the radiator.

When overheating becomes problematic, don’t wait until it’s too late. Take your vehicle to a reputable auto repair shop to have it checked out by a certified auto technician. Doing so can minimize serious damage and costly repairs, but most importantly, prevent breakdowns that might leave you stranded on the side of the road.

Carworks of Longmont has provided trusted auto maintenance and auto repair services for customers in Longmont and the neighboring communities since 1993. Our ASE certified auto technicians are experienced and qualified to service virtually any make or model vehicle. Whether engine overheats or regular maintenance of your car’s cooling system, our team at Carworks is here for all your auto service needs.

If your car is overheating and you need professional auto maintenance or repair services, call the experts at Carworks of Longmont today!

At some point or another, you’ve probably noticed spots that have stained the driveway or garage floor, or small drips or puddles that form underneath your vehicle and wondered, “what could that be?”. Cars require several fluids to keep them operating and, on occasion, those fluids can begin to leak. Some of the more common fluids can be easy to identify and knowing which one is which can help you determine the severity of the problem.

Identifying Car Leaks

• Water – In the summer, when your vehicle’s air conditioning is maxed, it’s common to see water condensation drip underneath the car, appearing as though the car has sprung a leak. No worries, this is completely normal.
• Windshield Wiper Fluid – Windshield wiper fluid has the consistency of water and is typically blue in color, although it can be orange or green. Fortunately, the loss of this solvent isn’t serious and won’t affect your car’s ability to operate.
• Power Steering Fluid – If your car starts leaking this fluid, chances are you will notice because your ability to turn the steering wheel will become quite difficult. This leak will be visible towards the front of the car and will be red or yellow in color, depending on the type of power steering fluid used in your vehicle. Take your car in to address this issue, as a sudden loss of steering can be dangerous for you, and others, on the road.
• Transmission Fluid – A leak of this fluid will be from the center of the vehicle. It can be reddish to brownish in color, depending on how old it is. Its texture is much like oil and its smell is similar to gas. If you suspect that your transmission fluid is leaking, take your vehicle to a mechanic right away.
• Antifreeze – Antifreeze typically leaks from the front end of the car, near the engine, but it can also come from your exhaust pipe. This fluid has a sweet smell and is usually green or red, with a texture just a bit thicker than water. Coolant leaks can lead to engine damage, so get your car in sooner than later if this is the culprit.
• Gas – Everyone knows the smell of gas, so identifying this leak is pretty easy. When gas leaks occur near the back of the car, this indicates a leak in the gas tank. If the leak is occurring near the front of the vehicle, it’s probably the fuel pump. Regardless of location, leaking gas isn’t a good thing, so getting the problem fixed is your best line of action.
• Brake Fluid – If your brake fluid is leaking, you will notice a clear or yellowish substance that is oily and somewhat thick and can be visible anywhere under the car. Brake fluid is a necessary component in the proper operations of your brake system, so if you suspect a brake fluid leak, it’s critical to get your car to a mechanic as soon as possible!
• Engine Oil – Fresh oil will appear amber in color, whereas older oil will be brown or black. Oil is the most common type of leak seen in a vehicle and can occur anywhere around the engine. There are several reasons oil can leak, some more serious than others, but regardless, an auto technician is your best bet in resolving the issue.

As with any chemicals, these fluids can be harmful and should be kept away from children or pets. When cleaning up after leaks, take extra care to avoid contact and properly dispose of any cleaning materials, such as rags or paper towels. Adhering to proper guidelines for spillage and cleanup is imperative.

Now that you can identify the fluid leaking from your vehicle, you’ll be able to determine what needs to happen next, and if you need a mechanic, Carworks of Longmont is here to help!

Since 1993, Carworks has provided customers in Longmont and the surrounding areas with trusted quality auto preventative maintenance and auto repair services. Our auto technicians are ASE certified and are skilled to service virtually any make or model of vehicle. From water pumps to wheel bearings, the team at Carworks of Longmont has got you covered!

If your car has sprung a leak and you need the professional services of a trusted auto repair shop, give Carworks of Longmont a call today!

Spring has sprung, and after several months of cold temperatures and harsh road conditions, it’s that time of year to make sure your vehicle is ready to face the warmer months ahead. Regular preventative maintenance is key to extending the life of your vehicle while optimizing its performance and is an ideal way to identify minor issues before they turn into costly repairs.

Carworks of Longmont offers quality auto maintenance and repair services for customers throughout Northern Colorado. Our team of auto technicians are ASE certified and have experience servicing virtually any make or model of vehicle. Carworks cares about our clients and their well-being, which is why we take the time to perform comprehensive inspections and sound recommendations that will keep your vehicle running smooth and you safe on the road.

At Carworks, we recommend regularly scheduled maintenance per your car’s specifications and below you will find a checklist of preventative maintenance services that should be performed every Spring.

Auto Maintenance Checklist:

• Battery Check:  Frigid temps take a toll on the car’s battery because it has to work much harder, which in turn, drains it. Testing the battery, along with checking the connections to make sure they are corrosion-free and secure are the best ways to maintain a healthy charging system.
• Oil Change:  Regular oil changes are necessary for optimizing engine performance and preventing engine damage. On average, a car’s oil should be changed every 3,000 to 5,000 miles.
• Cooling System Service:  To protect the vehicle’s cooling system and its components from corrosion, the coolant should be regularly flushed and replaced.
• Fluids Check:  Checking fluids for low levels will indicate the need to either flush and replace them or top them off. If brake fluid, coolant, or power steering fluid is low, it’s important to check for leaks.
• Windshield Wipers Check:  Windshield wipers are an important safety component of the vehicle, and after heavy use in the winter months, it’s a good idea to have them replaced.
• Tire Inspection:  Tire pressure, uneven tread wear, cracks, etc. are all an indication that your tires need attention. Having regular tire inspections and rotating the tires are critical to keeping you safe on the road.
• Lighting Check:  Defective lighting, such as taillights and turn signals, can be dangerous for you and other drivers. Have the lights in your car inspected to make sure they are functioning properly.
• Belts/Hoses Check:  It’s common to see damage to rubber hoses and belts after months of cold temperatures. Inspecting the belts and hoses will determine if there is damage and a need for replacement.
• Filters Check:  Filters, such as cabin, air, and fuel filters can become damaged or clogged. To promote longevity in the car, these filters should be replaced regularly.
• Undercarriage Check:  To prevent damage and rust caused by road salt and chemicals, the undercarriage of the vehicle should be thoroughly cleaned to remove any accumulation of these elements.
• A/C Check:  Cleaning the condenser and topping off the refrigerant, along with inspecting the other components of the air conditioner, is the best way to ensure that you’ll stay cool all summer long.

If you need these, or any other auto maintenance or auto repair services, contact the professional team at Carworks of Longmont today. With over 25 years in the industry, you can trust that your car will be in good hands at Carworks.

The muffler plays an important role in your car’s exhaust system. Not only is it responsible for reducing noise pollution produced by the engine, the muffler is also necessary for allowing toxic fumes to safely escape the vehicle. When a faulty muffler is suspected, taking your vehicle to a reputable auto repair shop for inspection and repairs can make all the difference in your car’s performance and save you money on costly repairs that can occur when left unchecked.

Carworks of Longmont provides quality exhaust system maintenance and repair services on most makes and models of vehicles, imports and domestic. Our team of ASE certified auto technicians are equipped with the knowledge and experience required to provide comprehensive exhaust inspections and any necessary repairs to ensure that your vehicle operates proficiently and safely.

Signs your muffler might be faulty include:

• Overall Performance – If you notice that the performance of your vehicle is declining, this could indicate an issue with your muffler. Such signs of poor performance include large smoke clouds coming from the tailpipe, poor gas mileage, or rough idling. When one or more of these signs are present, it’s a good idea to have your vehicle’s exhaust system checked.
• Visual Inspection – When your muffler becomes louder than usual, or starts to emit more smoke, inspecting the muffler is an easy way to identify potential issues. If the muffler has rust, damage, corrosion, or a build-up of soot, these are a good indication that it should be replaced. Holes in the muffler should also be addressed and corrected asap, as holes allow toxic fumes to enter the cabin of the vehicle, which can be detrimental to the health of its passengers.
• Loud Noises – An increase in noise, along with rattling, coming from the muffler is the most common and obvious sign that the muffler is compromised. When the muffler becomes louder than usual, getting it checked by a certified auto mechanic is your best line of action.

Addressing potential muffler issues early on can make all the difference in preventing costlier repairs down the road. If you suspect a faulty muffler, call the team at Carworks of Longmont today. We will provide a thorough inspection of your vehicle’s exhaust system and offer sound recommendations and repair services to ensure that your muffler is operating properly and safely. With over 25 years of auto maintenance and repair services in Longmont, you can trust you’ll be in good hands with Carworks!