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Fleet Maintenance Services

Keeping up with the maintenance schedule of one vehicle can, sometimes, be a task, but managing a fleet of autos and staying on top of the maintenance schedules required to keep those vehicles up and running can be a real challenge. Carworks of Longmont understands what it takes to keep a business operating smoothly, especially when that business relies on a fleet of automobiles, which is why we offer fleet auto maintenance services that include regular schedule reminders.

Regular preventative maintenance is essential in the performance and longevity of any vehicle, but when your business depends on a fleet for production and profitability scheduled maintenance is imperative. When you partner with Carworks of Longmont to maintain your fleet, you can rest assured that your vehicles will get the required maintenance on a schedule that best accommodates the needs of your operation. With discounted rates, convenient maintenance schedules and reminders, comprehensive service reports, and fleet service warranties you can have peace of mind that Carworks is the right choice for your fleet auto maintenance needs.

The fleet auto maintenance services offered at Carworks of Longmont include:

When it comes to maintaining a fleet of autos, our goal at Carworks of Longmont is to provide reliable maintenance services and flexible scheduling to curtail disruption to the operation of your company. Whether a government agency or service business with a fleet of 3 or 23, our ASE certified auto technicians are highly trained and skilled to service virtually any make or model of automobile and we use state of the art equipment and quality auto parts to ensure that your fleet is professionally serviced with the best that the industry has to offer.

If you operate a fleet in Longmont or any of the surrounding communities and need a trusted auto repair shop for fleet maintenance services, call Carworks of Longmont today! Providing quality auto maintenance and repair services since 1993.

Maintaining Your Transmission

When your car’s transmission isn’t properly maintained, not only will it affect the smooth operation of your vehicle, it can cause major issues with the transmission. Since the transmission can be quite costly to repair or replace, it’s good practice to have it properly maintained per your vehicle’s specifications. Carworks of Longmont offers preventative maintenance services to include transmission services for customers in Longmont and the surrounding areas.

A transmission can easily go 100,000 miles or more when properly maintained. The team of ASE certified auto technicians at Carworks of Longmont are well-equipped to provide the necessary maintenance services on your car’s transmission. With extensive experience and the use of quality products and parts, you can rest easy knowing that your vehicle’s performance will be optimized, saving you time and money.

Indicators that your transmission needs servicing include:

  • Check Engine Light – A displayed “check engine” light indicates there is a problem, and while it may not be the transmission, it’s a good idea to have the codes checked by a reputable auto technician to be sure. Addressing the issue in a timely manner can prevent costly repairs in the future.
  • Slipping Transmission – Low transmission fluid, contaminated transmission fluid, and/or internal transmission issues can cause the transmission to slip. If you notice your transmission slipping, get it checked sooner than later.
  • Humming Noises – Noises, such as buzzing or humming, can be caused by leaking transmission fluid or internal transmission damage.
  • Transmission Fluid Leaks – One of the easiest problems to detect is leaking transmission fluid, which will be visibly noticeable under the car. Having this issue corrected can make all the difference in your transmission’s health and performance of the vehicle.
  • Hesitation – Low transmission fluid, water or contaminates in the fluid can cause the transmission to hesitate when put into gear. These issues are easy and affordable to correct.

If you live in Longmont or any of the neighboring communities and have issues with your transmission and need professional preventative maintenance services, call the team at Carworks of Longmont. Trusted in Longmont since 1993!

Serpentine Belt Replacement – Longmont, CO

auto shop Longmont

What is a Serpentine Belt?

A serpentine belt is a long, snake-like belt responsible for the operations of many components of the car’s engine, such as the power steering pump, water pump, alternator, and air conditioner. The serpentine, or S belt is a key element in keeping your vehicle running, and while it plays a vital role in the engine, it’s relatively inexpensive. The serpentine belt should be checked at least once a year because when it breaks, your car won’t run.

Carworks of Longmont offers preventative maintenance to include serpentine belt inspections, and when needed, serpentine belt replacement services in virtually any make or model of vehicle. Our ASE certified technicians have the necessary training and skills to provide a thorough inspection of your car’s engine and diagnose any potential issues with the S belt. If your serpentine belt is compromised, we will replace it with a quality Napa Auto belt and get you on your way.

Signs of a compromised serpentine belt include:

Power Steering or A/C Fails – When the serpentine belt becomes damaged or breaks, the power steering will fail, making it very difficult to steer. This can be very dangerous, especially when driving, so having the belt inspected and/or replaced is imperative. If the air conditioning in your car quits working, this can also be an indication that the serpentine belt needs to be replaced.

Loud Noises/Squealing – A misaligned or slipped serpentine belt can cause a loud squealing noise from the engine. The only way to fix this issue is to have an auto technician inspect the belt and replace it, if necessary.

Cracked or Worn Belt – The serpentine belt should be inspected at least once a year to check for abrasions, tears, cracks, and uneven or damaged ribs. If the S belt is damaged, it’s time to replace it.

Overheating – The water pump won’t properly circulate coolant through the cooling system if the serpentine belt is broke, thus, causing your engine to overheat.

Regular preventative maintenance goes a long way in keeping your car healthy. Part of that preventative maintenance is having your serpentine belt inspected at least once a year. If you suspect your S belt needs replacing, the team at Carworks of Longmont will provide a comprehensive inspection and offer sound recommendations to have you back on the road in no time. Call Carworks of Longmont today!

Wheel Bearing Service Longmont, CO

Brake Repair

While all makes and models of cars can have their variances in how they handle on the road, the role of the wheel bearing is standard when it comes to the wheel, tire, and hub assemblies operating properly. Wheel bearings are a critical component of the vehicle. Their purpose is to allow movement and rotation of the hub assembly, free of friction, thus providing level rotation of the wheels and tires.

When the wheel bearing starts to fail, not only can it create additional costly repairs, it can be a huge safety issue. Carworks of Longmont offers wheel bearing diagnosis and replacement services on most makes and models and recommends seeking immediate attention if you notice any of these signs:

  • Loud Noise:  Grinding or metal on metal sound is one of the most common indicators that the wheel bearing is going bad. If you notice a grinding noise that gets louder as you accelerate, call a mechanic immediately.
  • Worn or Uneven Tire Wear:  A bad wheel bearing can cause tires to wear much faster or show uneven wear. While there are other reasons that tires can become worn, it’s good to have your wheel bearings checked as a precaution.
  • Loose Steering:  Another sign of a bad wheel bearing can be loose or wobbly steering. When bearings begin to wear, they can cause the steering to feel loose, therefore, affecting the response of your vehicle while driving. This can be dangerous and needs to be addressed as soon as possible.
  • Pulling:  If you notice that your car pulls to one side, this could indicate a failing wheel bearing. There are other reasons that could cause your vehicle to pull in one direction, such as bad alignment or worn suspension, but a bad bearing could also be the culprit.

Safety should be of utmost concern when driving, so if you notice any of the issues, your best bet is to call a mechanic right away. Carworks of Longmont and their team of ASE certified auto mechanics have the experience to perform a thorough inspection of your wheel bearings and make the necessary repairs to get your car back on the road in no time. Give the team of professionals at Carworks of Longmont a call today!

Fuel System Service Longmont, CO

Preventative auto maintenance is important when it comes to keeping your vehicle on the road. We typically think of filters, oil changes, and tire pressure or rotation when it comes to preventative maintenance, yet the vehicle’s fuel system is another area that should be regularly maintained and serviced. Unlike the old carburetor systems, today’s fuel systems aren’t as complicated, however they are still vulnerable to potential issues if not properly serviced.

As with any auto part, components of the fuel system can become worn or damaged over time. These components include the fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel injectors, fuel lines, and fuel and injection pump assembly. The fuel pump is subject to the most wear and tear because of its extensive use and should be checked on a regular basis. And since the fuel system is exposed to impurities, such as dirt and debris, or deposits found in gasoline, over time, these impurities can build up in the fuel line, fuel pumps, and filters, which can minimize the car’s overall performance and result in costly damages.

Symptoms of a Faulty Fuel System Include:

  • Lost Power – If you lose power when accelerating, this could indicate that your fuel pump is failing.
  • Sputtering – Sputtering or jerking can occur when the fuel pump starts to fail and is typically noticed when traveling at higher speeds.
  • Hard Starts – If your vehicle has a hard time starting or won’t start at all, this could indicate that your fuel system needs servicing.
  • Stalling – Another indication of a faulty fuel system is stalling. When fuel isn’t properly pumped, a stalled car is usually the result.
  • Poor Gas Mileage – A failing fuel system can cause poor gas mileage, costing you money over time.

A fuel system maintenance service will keep your car’s fuel system at peak performance. This service typically includes a chemical cleaning that will remove unwanted deposits in the fuel system and changing worn parts, if necessary. Because there is no real specified interval at which to perform a fuel system maintenance service, it’s good practice to have the system checked with every oil change.

Carworks of Longmont provides preventative maintenance, to include a fuel system service, on most makes and models. If you notice decreased engine performance or gas mileage, call the ASE certified mechanics at Carworks of Longmont and schedule your fuel system maintenance service today!

Wheel Alignment Service in Longmont

Our driving habits coupled with road conditions can play a big role in misaligning a vehicle’s tires and wheels. Potholes, bumps, hitting a curb, automobile accidents, and worn parts can all be contributing factors to a car’s misalignment. Just as with regular oil changes and any other preventative maintenance, keeping your vehicle’s wheels aligned can make all the difference in your car’s overall performance. Carworks of Longmont has been providing preventative maintenance, including alignment service, on most cars and light trucks since 1993.

Signs Your Vehicle Needs an Alignment:

  • The Vehicle Pulls:  A great indication of a misaligned vehicle is pulling to the left or the right. If the car seems to want to steer left or right when you release the steering wheel, chances are you need an alignment.
  • Vibrations in Steering Wheel:  Vibrations in the steering wheel when driving could suggest that your car is experiencing misalignment.
  • Uneven Tread Wear:  If you notice uneven or rapid tread wear on your tires, this is typically the result of a misaligned vehicle. Correcting the problem with an alignment service will save you time and money in the long run.
  • Squeaking Noises:  When noises start coming from your tires, one of the potential reasons could be a bad alignment. Taking your car in for an inspection is recommended to determine the cause of the noise.

It is recommended that a vehicle have an alignment service with every oil change or per the manufacturer’s specifications. Keeping your car’s wheels aligned will enhance tire performance and wear, increase fuel efficiency, and offer better handling. Finding a trusted ASE certified auto mechanic to perform an alignment, or any other preventative maintenance service or repair is the first step when it comes to keeping your car “healthy”.

Carworks of Longmont and their team of ASE certified mechanics understand the importance of staying safe on the road. They will provide a thorough inspection of your vehicle and offer their professional, trusted advice for any maintenance or repairs. If you think your alignment is going bad, or have any other concerns about your car, give Carworks of Longmont a call today!

Power Steering Service in Longmont

The power steering system is an important and complex component of your vehicle. The primary element of the power steering system is the pump, which is driven by the engine’s serpentine belt. This pump pressurizes the power steering fluid that assists with the steering of the vehicle. Maintaining your automobile’s power steering system is a big deal. After all, it’s hard to drive if you can’t steer the car. Carworks of Longmont can perform an inspection of your power steering system and perform any necessary maintenance or repairs.

Reasons Why Your Power Steering System Might Have Issues:

  • Worn or Cracked Hoses: Old, damaged hoses and seals are the most common reason for power steering fluid leaks. Low fluid and/or leaks can cause serious damage to the power steering pump, causing it to wear out. Keeping a check on these hoses and fluid levels can make all the difference in maintaining the life of the pump.
  • Contaminated Fluid: The power steering fluid is the most valuable element of the power steering system. When the fluid becomes contaminated, it can cause interference with the hydraulic system, ultimately leading to failure of the steering system.
  • Slipping or Broken Belt: When the drive belt in the pump starts to slip or breaks, it will no longer be able to power the pump. Common signs of a slipping or broken belt are loud squealing sounds when steering, or the inability to easily steer the vehicle.
  • A Worn Pump: When the power steering pump starts to go bad, you may notice noises coming from the pump and have to use more force when trying to steer the vehicle. Regular inspections and maintenance will help keep your power steering system healthy, making you safer on the road.

If you notice problems with your car’s steering system, Carworks of Longmont has a team of ASE certified mechanics who can perform a thorough inspection of your vehicle’s power steering system and provide the necessary maintenance and repairs, using quality NAPA auto parts. Carworks has been providing quality auto maintenance and repairs in Longmont for over 25 years. Call the experienced auto technicians at Carworks of Longmont today for all of your auto maintenance and service needs!

Your Car’s Filters and Why You Replace Them

car air conditioning maintenance LongmontWhile not every vehicle is alike, they all have something in common: filters. Your car has four main filters that are all important components to the vehicle’s overall mechanical health. When these filters become dirty or clogged, they can compromise the performance of your vehicle, which is why it’s so important to know your car’s filters and have them changed on a regular basis.

The Oil Filter:

The oil filter is responsible for removing particles, such as dirt, metal, and oxidized oil, that occur from engine wear. It also maintains continuous oil flow while purifying the oil so that it effectively does its job. Changing the oil filter every year or two, depending on your vehicle’s age, will keep impurities out of your engine and allow for proper oil flow, greatly reducing engine wear or failure.

The Cabin Filter:

The cabin filter serves the important purpose of cleaning the air that enters the cabin of your car through the heating and air vents. Changing these filters per your vehicle’s specifications, typically every year or 12,000 miles, is important not only for your respiratory health, but it maximizes air flow and can help in prolonging the life of your car’s heating and air conditioning system. If you notice dust, bad odor, or minimal air flow from your auto’s air vents, it’s a good indication that your cabin filter needs to be replaced.

The Air Filter:

The air filter allows for clean air to reach the engine by keeping dust particles, debris, and insects out. A clean air filter promotes combustion in the engine and optimizes fuel efficiency, supporting the vehicle’s overall performance.

The Fuel Filter:

The fuel filter keeps impurities found in the fuel from entering the vehicle’s engine and helps protect the fuel injectors. A clogged fuel filter can weaken the performance of the engine, and contaminated fuel can increase wear and tear on pricey parts, decrease fuel efficiency, or cause the fuel injector or fuel pump to fail.

Carworks of Longmont offers preventative maintenance, to include inspection and replacement of the automobile’s different filters. The experienced team of ASE certified mechanics at Carworks of Longmont knows cars and understands the importance of regular service and maintenance. If you suspect your car’s filters need to be changed, or you need service or repair on your vehicle, give Carworks of Longmont a call today!

Preventative Auto Maintenance for Winter

Winter is here and it’s important to make sure that your vehicle is ready for the cold, harsh conditions that we can see in Longmont over the next few months. According to the National Institute of Automotive Service Excellence, there are several maintenance tips that can get your car ready for winter driving. While some of the recommended tasks can be handled by the car’s owner, others should be left to a professional auto mechanic. Carworks of Longmont has a team of ASE certified mechanics who understand just what your vehicle needs to make it through the winter months.

Maintenance Tips for Winter Driving:

  • The Engine: If your engine is having issues, such as a hard time starting, rough idling, or stalling, these problems can just become worse as the weather gets colder. Have any of these engine issues checked by an ASE certified mechanic. And while you’re at it, make sure to have dirty filters and fluids replaced.
  • Battery: Have your battery tested and inspected for leaks. Check fluid levels monthly, if applicable, and clean corrosion around the cable connections and posts.
  • Coolant: The coolant system should be flushed and replenished (one part antifreeze/one part water is typically recommended). Have your mechanic check the overall condition of your coolant system, including belts, clamps, and hoses.
  • Oil: Having regular oil changes, per your vehicle’s specifications, is highly recommended.
  • Fuel: Keeping a full tank of gas can help to prevent moisture in the fuel line, which can freeze in cold temperatures. Adding a de-icer to the tank about once a month can be a good preventative measure.
  • Tires: Inspect your tires, including your spare, for cracks, irregular tire wear, and low tread. Check pressure regularly, and have your tires rotated per manufacturer’s recommendation.
  • Heater: A properly working heater and defroster is essential for comfort and safety.
  • Windshield Wipers/Fluid: Rubber clad blades are your best bet to minimize ice build-up. Make sure your wiper fluid is full and can withstand below freezing temps. Don’t forget the ice-scraper!
  • Be Prepared: It’s always a good idea to carry extra water, snacks, blankets, gloves, a flashlight, flares, and any other items that can come in handy in an emergency.

Regular inspections, along with preventative maintenance can go a long way when it comes to your vehicle’s overall safety and performance, especially in cold weather. Carworks of Longmont and their professional, licensed auto mechanics will inspect your vehicle, and perform any maintenance and/or repairs so that you can stay safe on the road this winter. Give us a call today!

Replacing Your Water Pump in Longmont

The water pump is a simple, yet valuable component of your car’s mechanical system. Its function is to pump coolant through the radiator, hoses, and engine block to eliminate the heat produced by the engine. Without a properly functioning water pump, your engine would not operate correctly, and your vehicle would overheat. Carworks of Longmont has the knowledge and skill to replace water pumps on all makes of cars and light trucks.

Symptoms of a Failing Water Pump:

  • High Temperatures: When the water pump starts to fail, the engine will start to overheat causing your vehicle’s temperature to consistently run high. A vehicle that overheats can cause serious damage, such as burnt pistons and cracked cylinder heads if not repaired quickly.
  • Loud or Whining Noises: If the pulley becomes loose or the bearings in the water pump become worn, this can cause a whining noise that gets louder upon acceleration. When the bearings wear, the entire unit will need to be replaced.
  • Leaks: Red or green fluid leaking from under the vehicle indicates that coolant is leaking. These leaks typically occur when the pump’s gaskets and seals start to deteriorate.
  • Radiator Steam: One of the greatest warning signs that the water pump is failing or broken is a steaming radiator. Driving a vehicle that is overheating can cause extensive damage to your engine. If your car is overheating, have it towed to a reputable, licensed auto mechanic to have your water pump replaced.

While water pumps have a long life span, they do not last forever. Fortunately, when water pumps begin to fail, these warning signs will let you know. Taking your vehicle to an ASE certified mechanic is the best way to have your vehicle’s water pump inspected and replaced. The trusted team of mechanics at Carworks of Longmont have the expertise to properly diagnose and make any necessary repairs on your vehicle’s water pump. Give them a call today for all your vehicle maintenance and repair needs.