Auto Repair and Maintenance

COMPUTER DIAGNOSTICS

Computerized engine control systems have a certain amount of built-in self-diagnostic capability to detect problems that affect engine performance and emissions.

The same is true for the antilock brake system and other onboard systems that are computer controlled. When a fault is detected, the computer will store a diagnostic trouble code in its memory and illuminate the “Check Engine” light. On some vehicles, the computer can be put into a special diagnostic mode by grounding certain terminals on a diagnostic connector. This will cause the Check Engine or other lights to flash out the fault code. On many vehicles, though, a scan tool must be plugged into the computer system to access and read the codes.

We have the latest version of the diagnostic software for the majority of vehicles. This enables us to test and perform high-end diagnostics on the latest vehicle models. The areas diagnosed include Engine, Airbags, ABS, Emission and Evaporation Control Systems. Check-Engine-Light diagnostics are crucial for the cars that need to pass the smog inspection and are unable to do so due to the Check-Engine-Light being on.

ELECTRONIC TESTING

The Electronic Control Unit (ECU) controls the fuel injection system, ignition timing, and the idle speed control system. The ECU also interrupts the operation of the air conditioning and EGR systems, and controls power to the fuel pump (through the control relay).

The ECU consists of an 8-bit microprocessor, random access memory (RAM), read only memory (ROM), and an input/output interface. Based on information from the input sensors (engine coolant temperature, barometric pressure, air flow, etc.), the ECU determines optimum settings for the output actuators (injection, idle speed, ignition timing, etc.).

OIL CHANGES

We offer a variety of motor oil specifications. We use dealer’s synthetic oil for most European vehicles. We also offer synthetic blend oils and different viscosity oils. We select the perfect blend just for you depending on the mileage of your car, driving preferences, and seasonal weather conditions.

Oil is the substance used to lubricate and cool an engine’s moving parts and reduce rust and corrosion. Oil filter is used to strain oil moving through the engine. Oil filters should be replaced when the oil is changed.

TUNE-UPS

A regular maintenance usually associated with the replacement and adjustment of parts and components in the electrical and fuel systems of a vehicle for the purpose of attaining optimum performance.

We only use high quality tune-up parts and components to provide the best result possible. Please be aware that the quality of your tune-up will have direct impact on your gas mileage.

BRAKES

A typical brake job includes replacing the brake linings (new disc brake pads and shoes), resurfacing the rotors and drums, adding fresh brake fluid and bleeding the system, and inspecting/replacing any other worn components.

If rotors or drums are worn beyond safe limits, they can’t be resurfaced and must be replaced. Leaky disc brake calipers, drum brake wheel cylinders or the master cylinder should be rebuilt or replaced.
We have great experience in proper selection of brake pads/rotors and shoes/drums pairings. We use originally manufactured parts.

AIR CONDITIONING SERVICES

We provide professional air condition system services:

• We can charge your A/C.
• We can convert your A/C from older version R-12 Freon to a newer R-134a.
• We are equipped with the right tools to diagnose the smallest leaks in your A/C. This eliminates Freon waste and keeps you away from recharging your systems over and over again.
• We can identify a problem with your A/C and replace A/C condenser, receiver/dryer, compressor, clutch, expansion valve, hoses, and electronic climate control units.

A/C is a system that cools and dehumidifies air entering the passenger compartment. The system uses a refrigerant to cool the air and carry heat away from the passenger compartment. Major system components include a compressor, condenser, evaporator, accumulator or receiver/dryer, and orifice tube or expansion valve. Do not intermix different types of refrigerants in an A/C system. Use the type specified by the vehicle manufacturer (R-12 for most 1994 & older vehicles, or R-134a for most 1995 and newer vehicles).

EXHAUST SYSTEMS SERVICES

The exhaust system consists of the exhaust manifold, exhaust pipe, catalytic converter, muffler and tailpipe. The system performs three important jobs: it carries exhaust gases away from the engine, it quiets the engine (See Muffler), and it helps control pollution (See Catalytic Converter). The exhaust systems one weakness is its vulnerability to corrosion. Original equipment exhaust systems usually have stainless steel head pipes (the pipe between the exhaust manifold and catalytic converter) and converter shells, and aluminized pipe to resist corrosion. But after three or four years, the muffler and tailpipe often need to be replaced. Many newer vehicles are equipped with stainless steel exhaust systems that typically last 7 to 10 years.

Muffler: A device through which exhaust is passed to muffle engine sounds.
Catalytic Converter: A device installed in the exhaust system, like a muffler, that converts harmful byproducts of combustion into carbon dioxide and water vapor by means of a heat-producing chemical reaction.

ALIGNMENTS

We recommend that you perform an alignment service every time you replace tires and/or have work done on your suspension or steering areas. Out of alignment vehicle results in a much faster tear and wear of the tires, as well as in the unsafe vehicle condition.

Alignment is the checking and adjustment of caster, camber and toe angles in a vehicle’s suspension to maintain specifications engineered by the vehicle manufacturer for optimum performance. All vehicles can benefit from a four-wheel alignment, not just those with front-wheel drive or independent rear suspensions. The rear wheels have just as much influence over directional stability as those at the front, and that’s why many vehicles need to have all four wheels aligned. Many problems such as a steering pull to one side, uneven tire wear on the rear tires or misaligned rear wheels can cause poor tracking.

SHOCK AND STRUT SERVICES

If it feels like you are sailing while driving your car, then it is definitely time to inspect your suspension. Shock Absorber is a device that converts motion into heat, usually by forcing oil through small internal passages in a tubular housing.

Used primarily to dampen suspension oscillations, shock absorbers respond to motion; their effects, therefore, are most obvious in transient maneuvers. Strut Towers are panels or structural members in a unibody to which the upper strut mounts are bolted. The position of the towers is important because it affects camber and caster readings.

COMPLETE ENGINE REBUILDING

We provide four different options for automatic transmission repair:

• Purchase a new or rebuilt transmission from the dealer. It is usually available with a 3-year or 36K miles warranty on parts and labor.
• Purchase a rebuilt transmission from independent company. It is usually available with a 1-year or 12K miles warranty on parts and labor.
• Rebuild your original transmission. It is available with a 1-year or 12K miles warranty on parts and labor.
• Purchase a used transmission. It is available with a 6-months and unlimited mileage warranty on parts only.

For manual transmission repair, please see Clutches section.

Transmission is the gearbox that multiplies engine torque via gear reduction and/or torque conversion. A typical manual transmission has four or five speeds, with the final or highest gear being either a direct 1:1 drive ratio or an “overdrive” ratio (less than 1:1). An automatic transmission first multiplies engine torque as it passes through the fluid coupling known as the “torque converter” and then through three or four separate gear ratios. A manual transmission usually gives slightly better fuel economy than an automatic because there is a certain amount of slippage that occurs in the automatic’s torque converter. A manual transmission is normally trouble-free-except for the clutch, which can be very troublesome if adjusted incorrectly or abused. With automatics, the leading problem is fluid breakdown from overheating. Fluid and filter changes every 30,000 miles can avoid premature transmission failure but few people heed such advice. Consequently, automatics often call it quits long before they realize their potential design life. Automatic transmission is a type of transmission that shifts itself. A fluid coupling or torque converter is used instead of a manually operated clutch to connect the transmission to the engine. Newer automatics use electronic controls to regulate shifting and torque converter lockup.

COMPLETE ENGINE REBUILDING

We provide complete engine rebuilding services for most European, Japanese, and Domestic vehicles.

SCHEDULED MAINTENANCE

Recent advances in automotive technology have resulted in cars that are better built, longer lasting, and more service free than ever before. To assure peak performance and to assure that you get years of trouble-free driving, your manufacturer has developed a recommended maintenance schedule for your car.

When should my car have Scheduled Maintenance?
There are two types of maintenance services – minor and major. Minor services are generally performed at 7,500, 15,000, 45,000 and 75,000 miles while major services are performed at 30,000, 60,000 and 90,000 mile intervals.

What is the “minor service”?
While it varies by make and model, minor services generally include:

• Changing the oil and oil filter
• Lubricating the chassis if it has not been factory sealed
• An inspection of all fluids, filters, belts, hoses, brakes and emissions
• Some manufacturers recommend tire rotation as a part of a minor service

What is the “major service”?
While it varies by make and model, major services generally include:

• All minor services.
• The replacement of various filters, fluids, and spark plugs.
• Timing belt replacement at the manufacturer’s recommended replacement interval.
• Other specified major services relate to the fuel delivery, emissions, and ignition systems.

Will your service validate my warranty?
Scheduled maintenance service must be completed in order to keep your warranty valid, and KSH Automotive is authorized to perform most of the services recommended by each manufacturer.

As with all services you receive at KSH Automotive, the parts we install will meet or exceed manufacturer’s standards, and all used parts will be returned to you upon request.

KSH Automotive strongly advises that you have maintenance services performed based on the manufacturer’s suggested schedule. Additional services may also be recommended based on our inspection of the vehicle and industry standards.

Do you accept extended warranty?
We most certainly do. We work with any extended warranty purchased from an independent company. However, if the extended warranty was purchased from a certain dealership, then we are unable to charge the dealership for our services.

Recommended Service Schedule

Please note that this is a general list of services. A complete list of services and inspections for each particular car type is not listed here, but is available at our shop.

TIMING BELT

If the timing belt breaks on a non-interference design, there is enough clearance between the pistons and valves to prevent damaging contact. An interference design does not have sufficient clearance between those parts and engine damage would result from a broken timing belt. Depending on your vehicle model, it is recommended that the belt be changed at either 50K, 60K, 90K, or 105K mile intervals. If you are unsure of your car’s mileage interval required for timing belt change, please call us for consultation.

When changing your timing belt, it is a great time to perform complete service on the front part of your engine. This includes replacing water pump, camshaft and crankshaft seals, timing belt tensioner, and timing belt idler pulley.

CLUTCHES

An apparatus that disconnects the engine from the transmission in order for the car to change gears and then enables the gears to resume contact and turn together at a new speed.

To get the best result while repairing your clutch, it is recommended to replace clutch plate, pressure plate, and release and pilot bearings at the same time. In most cases, the fly wheel will also need to be resurfaced. It is also a good time to replace your rear main crankshaft seal, since the engine is already separated from transmission at this time. This way, you won’t have to pay for additional labor, and will only pay for the parts.
Please remember that manual transmission fluid has to be flashed every 60K miles in most cases.

VARIETY OF TIRES

What you need to know to get good tires at a good price

All Those Numbers and Letters

The side of your tire may look like an ancient hieroglyphic text to you.

But each of the markings stamped into the side of a tire has a meaning. Some of them will be important to you, some won’t. You’re probably not worried about the speed rating of the tires for your Prius, but your Porsche 997 Turbo needs go-fat rubber on the road. On the flip side, treadwear ratings are important to your hybrid, since they affect gas mileage and the effect your tires have on the environment.

The Breakdown

As technology has advanced, the tire companies agreed upon a uniform system of describing every aspect of each tire. Lucky for us, they all follow the same formula (except for race car tires which are not legal for street use.) The following categories are squeezed onto the side of every tire you can buy.

• Vehicle Application
• Tire Width
• Aspect Ratio
• Radial Designation
• Wheel Diameter
• Load Index
• Speed Rating
• The Official DOT Stuff
• Ply Construction
• Load and Pressure Limits
• Treadwear and Traction Ratings

You decide which ratings matter to you based on your car type and needs.

STEERING AND SUSPENSION

Details coming soon

STARTING AND CHARGING

Details coming soon

FLUID FLUSHING

Details coming soon

DRIVETRAIN

Details coming soon