T3 Atlanta

Auto Repair Shop in the Atlanta Metro Area

Premier Lexus, Infiniti, Nissan, and Toyota
Auto Repair Shop in the Atlanta Metro Area!

Call Today!

Smyrna
(404) 794-7700
5322 South Cobb Drive


Decatur/Scottdale
(404) 633-7722
375 Aldridge Ave.

  • Home
  • About us
  • Repairs & Service
  • T3 vs The Dealer
  • FAQs
  • Blog
  • Testimonials
  • Locations
    • Smyrna
    • Decatur/Scottdale
  • Message Us

What’s The Difference Between Drive Types?

March 23, 2021 by t3atlanta Leave a Comment

There are four types of drivetrains that a vehicle can have: front, rear, 4-wheel, and all wheel. Each type has its own set of benefits and drawbacks that may be all the difference in what you decide to purchase, depending on your driving habits. Here, we discuss the difference between drive types and the pros and cons of each.

The difference between drive types

Put simply, your engine’s drivetrain is a system that connects your car’s transmission to its axles, delivering engine power to the wheels. The terms ‘front’, ‘rear’, ‘4-wheel’, and ‘all-wheel’ refer to which wheels are receiving the power.

Front

Most cars on the road these days are front-wheel drive vehicles. This type of car features a drivetrain that powers the two wheels at the front of the vehicle. There are several benefits of this type of drive train, including:

  • Fuel efficiency: The drive axles in a front-wheel drive vehicle are shorter than their siblings since they don’t need to connect to the rear of the vehicle. This makes for lighter weight vehicles and fewer trips to the gas station.
  • Less costly: This type of drive is less complicated compared to others and is less expensive to produce for manufacturers. It’s also less expensive for consumers to maintain over the life of the vehicle.
  • Performs well in many types of weather: Front-wheel drive vehicles maintain good traction on wet surfaces, snow, sand, gravel, and more. This type of drive also reduces the likelihood of your vehicle ‘fishtailing’, a problem that is more common in rear-wheel drive cars.

Despite these advantages, there are several drawbacks to a front-wheel drive vehicle.

  • Torque steer can cause the car to pull to one side or the other when accelerating quickly.
  • The vehicle’s turning radius is much larger than other types of drives because there isn’t as much room under the front of the vehicle.
  • Your front tires may wear out faster than other types of drives since they are carrying the combined weight of the engine, transmission, and drivetrain, and also have to absorb everyday braking, acceleration, and steering.
  • Front-wheel drive systems may not last as long as other types of drives.

Rear

In a rear-wheel drive vehicle, the engine is positioned at the front of the vehicle and provides power to the wheels at the back of the car or truck. There are several benefits to a rear-wheel drive vehicle, including:

  • Excellent acceleration from a standstill: Rear-wheel drive vehicles are not impacted by torque steer like their front-wheel drive siblings, offering superior handling when accelerating from a complete stop. This aspect makes rear-wheel drive vehicles the drive of choice for performance vehicles.
  • Better turning radius: Because the vehicle’s drive wheels are in the back and do not have to share space with the engine and front suspension, they can turn more sharply than front-wheel drive cars.
  • Better payload capacity: Extra weight over the rear wheels increases the towing capacity of the vehicle, which is ideal for pickup trucks.

There are some drawbacks to consider when it comes to rear-wheel drive vehicles.

  • These vehicles do not perform as well in inclement conditions, especially snow, as they are more likely to get stuck. They are also more likely to fishtail on wet surfaces.
  • They are not as fuel efficient as front-wheel drive vehicles.

4-wheel

As the name suggests, 4-wheel drive (4WD) vehicles feature a drivetrain that is designed to deliver power to all four wheels. The vehicle may be designed to have a full or part-time system; part-time offers the additional choice for the driver to switch between rear and 4WD depending on their needs. There are several advantages of 4WD vehicles, including:

  • Superior off-road capability: These vehicles are unmatched in off-road conditions.
  • Superior towing capacity: 4WD vehicles are equipped with heavy-duty suspensions that are ideal for towing, whether on or off-road.
  • Superior performance in inclement weather: 4WD vehicles are excellent in all types of driving conditions, especially snowy and wet conditions.

That said, there are several disadvantages to consider about 4WD vehicles.

  • The weight of the vehicle decreases fuel economy.
  • 4WD vehicles require more frequent service than two-wheel drive vehicles due to the number of components in the vehicle.
  • 4WD vehicles are more costly than two-wheel drive cars.

All wheel

Although all-wheel and 4-wheel drive types may sound like different terms for the same thing, they work a little differently and are distinct enough to be considered their own category.

All-wheel drive (AWD) vehicles work with the onboard computer to continuously transfer power between the wheels depending on where it’s needed most, whether that’s accelerating quickly or in response to wet or snowy conditions. There are several advantages to AWD vehicles, including:

  • Excellent performance in inclement weather: Since power is being directed where it’s needed most, AWD vehicles offer great performance in poor driving conditions.
  • Versatile: AWD vehicles perform equally well off-road as they do on city streets, which is ideal for drivers who regularly do both types of driving.

There are some drawbacks to consider, though, about AWD cars.

  • Like 4WD vehicles, AWD cars are heavier and require more fuel to operate.
  • AWD vehicles may require more frequent service than two-wheel drive cars.
  • AWD vehicles are more costly than front or rear-wheel drive vehicles.

Drivetrain Repair And More At T3 Atlanta

Whether you need work on your vehicle’s drivetrain or want to get preventive maintenance to keep your car in top shape, T3 Atlanta is here and ready to provide the service your vehicle deserves. Give us a call at our convenient Smyrna or Decatur location and we’ll book you in for fast and friendly service today.

Filed Under: Auto Repair

3 Signs It’s Time To Replace Your Car

March 16, 2021 by t3atlanta Leave a Comment

Knowing when it’s time to get a new car isn’t always as obvious as the steering wheel coming off or the engine falling out. Although there’s no universal rule as to when it’s time to replace your car, there are three major signs it’s time to upgrade your vehicle, which we discuss below.

1. Your car is more expensive to repair than it’s worth

Regardless of how much or how little you drive your vehicle, car owners are eventually going to need to drop money on maintenance and repairs. After all, keeping your car on its maintenance schedule will prolong the lifespan of your vehicle and help prevent you from getting stranded on the side of the road.

There comes a point for many car owners, however, where the cost of repairs in an aging vehicle starts to outweigh the vehicle’s value. (This factor may not be important to some people, who simply want to keep their beloved car.)

For those who are trying to stay on a budget, or who don’t want to be paying more than their car is worth on keeping it going, it may be time to look at the free vehicle value estimators from Kelly Blue Book or NADA. You’ll then want to get a quote from your mechanic to assess both current and upcoming maintenance items.

If your car’s value is less than your combined maintenance quote, then you may want to consider trading it in for something that will cost you less money overall.

2. Your needs have changed

Maybe you’re about to welcome a new member to your family and your two-seater won’t cut it anymore. Maybe you’re about to pick up off-roading as a new hobby and your minivan just isn’t up for the task. Perhaps you’ve decided to start driving for a ride-share service and you need a vehicle that’s more suited to transport passengers around town.

Whatever the factors in your life may be, honestly assess whether your current vehicle is still right to match your needs. Sometimes, a change in what you’re driving can make a significant impact in your quality of life.

3. You are earning more money – or less

A change in employment – for better or for worse – can significantly impact whether it’s time to replace your car. A promotion or raise may mean you can comfortably afford that car which has been on your wish list, while a job loss may mean you need to trade your vehicle in for something more affordable.

You’ll want to consider whether your change in income is temporary and weigh the associated likelihood of further changes to your earnings into whether or not you want to make the commitment to a new ride.

Complete Auto Care At T3 Atlanta

As you can see, there are many potential signs it’s time to replace your vehicle, but only you can make the final call. If you’ve decided that it isn’t yet time to replace your car but you need repairs, T3 Atlanta can help extend the lifespan of your car and keep it in top condition.

We provide fast and friendly service for Nissan, Lexus, Infiniti, and Toyota vehicles at our convenient Smyrna and Decatur locations. Give us a call and we’ll book you in for a prompt appointment!

Filed Under: Auto Repair

What’s The Difference Between Cheap And Expensive Brake Pads?

October 6, 2020 by t3atlanta Leave a Comment

Your car’s brakes are one of the most important parts of your vehicle, helping you stay safe – and keep others safe too. Just like other components, they need replacing every now and then. If it’s time to buy brakes, you may notice that there’s a price difference between types. So, what’s the difference between cheap and expensive brake pads?

Material

One big factor behind the price difference in brake pads is the type of material the brake pads are made of – ceramic, semi-metallic, or organic.

  • Organic brake pads are typically very inexpensive and put little wear on your brake system. However, the materials they are made of (fibers, fiberglass, Kevlar, and others, bound together with resin) means that they aren’t the most durable. This makes them good options for drivers with short commutes, or who don’t generally put a lot of miles on their car.
  • Semi-metallic brake pads are made of metal and other materials and are generally in a mid-range price, offering good durability and effectiveness. These are great for urban commuters who sit in stop-and-go metro Atlanta traffic regularly.
  • Ceramic brake pads are the most expensive type of brakes due to the materials used in their manufacturing, as well as their durability and effectiveness. This type of brake pad is great for high-performance vehicles.

Performance

Are you planning on taking your car to the track and racing it? Or are you more of a city driver who sits in a lot of stop-and-go traffic? Although all three types of brake pads will make sure your car stops, you’ll want to consider performance in conjunction with your driving habits as you make your decision.

  • Organic brake pads offer the lowest performance, so you wouldn’t want to choose these if you’re a driver who needs to use your brakes heavily.
  • Ceramic brake pads offer the best performance, so unless cost doesn’t bother you, you wouldn’t typically need this kind of brake pad for everyday driving.

Durability

When you press the brake pedal, you want your vehicle to slow down – especially if it’s urgent! Worn brake pads aren’t as effective at stopping your car when you need it, and durability refers to the lifespan of your brake pads and will be influenced by your driving needs. The more durable your brake pads, the more expensive they are, right? Well, not quite.

  • Organic brake pads are the least durable of the three types.
  • Ceramic brake pads may be quite effective, but they don’t last as long as semi-metallic brake pads.
  • Semi-metallic brake pads offer the longest lifespan.

Noise and brake dust

The material of your brake pads will also influence how much noise you hear when you brake, as well as how much brake dust you can expect to see accumulating on your wheels.

  • Ceramic pads are typically very quiet and produce little to no brake dust because of their materials.
  • Organic brake pads are also very quiet and produce little brake dust. They also put less strain on your braking system as a whole.
  • Metallic brake pads are the noisiest option of the three. They will also put out the most brake dust, meaning more frequent wheel washes in order to keep your wheels nice and shiny.

Which Should You Choose?

In the end, the difference between cheap and expensive brake pads isn’t all about cost, and unfortunately, there’s no such thing as a ‘perfect brake’. If you’re in the market for brake pads, your best bet as to which to choose is to assess your driving habits and choose the tradeoffs you’re most comfortable with.

Service Your Car At T3 Atlanta

Whether you need routine maintenance or more significant repairs, T3 Atlanta can help. With our two convenient metro Atlanta locations, we can help keep your car in top shape for the life of your vehicle. Give us a call to book an appointment today!

Filed Under: Auto Repair

How To Spot An Engine Sludge Problem In Your Car

September 8, 2020 by t3atlanta Leave a Comment

Sludge. The word sounds exactly like it looks – thick, dark, and gunky. But what is it? Engine sludge is a buildup of oxidized oil, dirt, and other substances that can have serious consequences for the lifespan of your vehicle. Fortunately, this problem is perfectly preventable. Let’s take a look at how to spot a sludge problem in your car.

Symptoms Of Engine Sludge

What is a car transmission?

1. Your check engine light is on.

There are many possible reasons your check engine light might be on, as we’ve discussed in this article. Engine sludge is another possible reason.

This is because the thickening oil can impact the normal function of components inside your engine, impacting the oxygen sensor readings, causing misfires, and much more. Since there are so many reasons your check engine light is on, it’s best to visit your local mechanic to find the exact cause of the light.

2. Your fuel economy isn’t what it used to be

Your engine has to work harder when it’s being slowed down by sticky, thick sludge, which is why your fuel economy will take a hit. If you haven’t changed your driving habits recently, then a change in miles per gallon is a possible sign of engine sludge.

3. Your check oil light is on

Your check oil light is designed to warn you when your vehicle’s oil is running low. This light should never be ignored, as an insufficient amount of oil in your engine can cause it to overheat or lock up. Your check oil can also be triggered by engine sludge after enough oil in the engine has hardened and caked on to the metal.

Similarly, low oil pressure is another potential sign that your vehicle has an engine sludge problem. Low oil pressure can happen for many reasons, so it’s advisable to see your mechanic as soon as you can to prevent serious damage to your vehicle.

If you’re purchasing a used vehicle, especially one with high mileage, you’ll want to check that the vehicle had regular oil changes. Cars that have been regularly maintained are less likely to have engine sludge.

4. Your car is overheating

The whole purpose of oil is to provide lubrication between the parts inside your engine so that everything can run smoothly.

When your engine has a sludge problem, however, this sticky substance does exactly the opposite, increasing friction between vehicle components. The extra friction creates extra heat, which can make your car overheat.

How To Get Rid of Engine Sludge

There are a couple of ways to get rid of engine sludge.

1. Do an engine flush

This DIY method revolves around using what’s known as a ‘sludge remover’ – a liquid additive that’s designed to be added to your oil, where it helps break down the buildup inside your engine.

Typically, after the additive has been applied, you’ll let the car idle for a while so that the chemicals can reach every component inside the engine and do their magic. Afterwards, you’ll drain the ‘sludge remover’ oil, change the oil filter, and refill the vehicle with good quality oil. Depending on the extent of the sludge, you may need to repeat this process a few times.

An engine flush is not always a certain fix. In addition, as with all aftermarket products, you need to keep in mind that you’re taking some risk in using sludge remover in your engine.

Photo credit: Brad Topar on Flickr.com

2. Take your engine apart and clean it manually

The only surefire way to fully clear out engine sludge is to take the entire engine apart and clean it piece by piece.

This process is time consuming and expensive, which is why preventing engine sludge is the most effective way of avoiding this problem.

Prevent Engine Sludge With T3 Atlanta

You know how the old saying goes – ‘an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure’. The same thing is true with engine sludge. Regular oil changes are the best way to keep your engine clean and sludge-free.

With our two convenient metro Atlanta locations and fast, friendly service, T3 Atlanta can help you prevent engine sludge buildup in your engine. Give us a call and we’ll pen you in for an appointment!

Filed Under: Auto Repair

How To Know If You Have A Bad or Failing Catalytic Converter

June 9, 2020 by t3atlanta Leave a Comment

Your vehicle’s catalytic converter is an important component located in your car’s exhaust system. It is designed to reduce vehicle emissions by converting the emissions your engine produces into non-harmful gases, helping protect the environment. Modern catalytic converters have a long lifespan, generally lasting between 70,000 – 100,000 miles. However, the component may need to be replaced after this duration. So, how do you know if you have a bad or failing catalytic converter?

Symptoms Of A Bad Or Failing Catalytic Converter

1. Your car fails its emissions test

A bad or failing catalytic converter doesn’t always cause noticeable symptoms or trigger the ‘check engine light’. In fact, some people may not realize this component is on its way out until they take their car in for their emissions test.

In older vehicles, emissions tests are done with a wand that clips onto or sits inside the exhaust pipe. Since there are many potential reasons your car can fail an emissions test, a failing catalytic converter may or may not be the culprit. You’ll need to take your car to a mechanic to diagnose the exact problems.

Modern vehicles, on the other hand, are plugged directly into a computer that analyzes the codes stored in your vehicle’s computer. There is a specific code that indicates your vehicle has a faulty catalytic converter, so you can be certain of the culprit when you leave the emissions testing facility.

2. Your engine doesn’t perform like it used to

From your transmission to your spark plugs, reduced engine performance can stem from many potential issues, one of which is a bad or failing catalytic converter.

Why does this happen? When your exhaust system gets clogged, it changes the flow of your exhaust and prevents your engine from working as efficiently as it normally does. A clogged catalytic converter can impact your engine’s performance, especially on hills. It can also impact your car’s fuel economy.

3. You smell… eggs?

The smell of rotten eggs is the farthest thing from that coveted ‘new car smell’, and it’s also a symptom of a bad or failing catalytic converter. Unless you have actually left eggs in your car and they’ve gone bad, you’re actually smelling sulfur.

What causes this smell? When gasoline combusts during an engine cycle, it produces hydrogen sulfide – the source of the sulfurous smell. The catalytic converter’s job is to convert this into sulfur dioxide, which is odorless. A catalytic converter that isn’t working at 100% won’t convert all of the hydrogen sulfide into an odorless gas, allowing that ‘rotten egg’ smell through.

4. Shake, rattle, and… rattle

There are few car problems that are harder to miss than the sound of something rattling. Rattles can come from anywhere in your car, from under the hood, inside the cabin, in the trunk, and everywhere in-between.

If your rattle is coming from beneath your vehicle, it’s possible your catalytic converter is in trouble. Why is this? The internal workings of your catalytic converter can become damaged from age, excessive heat, or even from road debris. This damage can cause part of the structure inside your catalytic converter to break off, causing that rattle.

4. Your check engine light is on

There are dozens of reasons your check engine light might be illuminated, one of which is a bad or failing catalytic converter. Your vehicle’s computer monitors your catalytic converter’s efficiency, so if it detects that the component is not processing the gases properly or operating correctly, it can trigger the check engine light.

If your check engine light is on in addition to any of the symptoms we have discussed, there’s a greater chance your catalytic converter may be the culprit. However, the only way to be certain of the cause – and to turn the check engine light off – is by having your car assessed by your mechanic.

Keep Your Car In Top Condition With T3 Atlanta

Your catalytic converter is important to keep your car working properly and prevent excessive amounts of emissions from harming the environment. If you’ve noticed any of the symptoms above and want to make sure your car is in top condition, give T3 Atlanta a call. Our service centers are open and practicing recommended social distancing and cleaning guidelines to protect both our staff and our guests. With over 25 years of experience servicing Lexus, Toyota, Nissan, and Infiniti vehicles, we will be sure to get you back on the road quickly.

Filed Under: Auto Repair, Car Tips

The Signs of a Failing Drive Belt

March 24, 2020 by t3atlanta Leave a Comment

Your drive belt, also known as a serpentine belt, is an essential part of your car. This belt provides power for your power steering, air conditioning, water pump, and more. Although this belt is made of very durable rubber and can last up to 150,000 miles in modern vehicles, the wear and tear from heat, friction, and frequent use can cause this belt to fail. So, what are the signs of a failing drive belt? Let’s find out.

The Signs of a Failing Drive Belt

1. Noise, noise, noise

The only sound you should hear from your engine compartment is idling and acceleration. It’s time to open up your car’s hood when you hear squeaking or squealing noises. Sometimes, water from the road (especially when you’ve driven through an area with standing water) can get the drive belt wet. If you find this to be the case and the squeaking goes away when the weather dries, you’re fine.

If the weather and the belt are dry and you’re still hearing strange noises, however, this may be a sign that your drive belt is misaligned or worn and needs some attention. It’s especially important to visit your mechanic if you notice oil on your drive belt since this is likely a sign of a larger problem.

2. Changes in your power steering, air conditioner, or other components

Sometimes, the signs of a drive belt that’s on its way out are subtle. Perhaps your air conditioner isn’t working like it used to. Maybe turning your steering wheel isn’t as effortless as it once was. Or, maybe your air conditioning and power steering just don’t work at all. You guessed it – your drive belt might be the culprit!

3. Your drive belt is visibly worn

Drive belts are built to last, but they aren’t imperious to the wear and tear of tens of thousands of miles. When you see cracks, dry rot, and a significant number of missing ribs (the raised notches that help your drive belt wind its way through your engine), it’s time to get a new belt.

Additionally, you may notice that your belt is not wearing evenly and is thicker on one side than the other. This is a sign of a misalignment problem, so even if the belt looks otherwise fine, you may want to go ahead and bring your car in for service.

4. Your engine overheats

Your engine can overheat for a number of reasons, one of which is a broken drive belt. This belt powers the water pump, so if it goes, then your water pump can no longer cool down your engine as normal.

Your car shouldn’t overheat under normal circumstances, so whether it’s caused by your drive belt or another component, it’s time to bring your car in for service. Continuing to drive while your car is overheating is a recipe for a potentially catastrophic engine failure.

Fast and Convenient Drive Belt Repair at T3 Atlanta

Sometimes, your car may perform normally with a failing drive belt. Other times, it could lead to you being stranded on the side of the road. In either case, it’s important to get a worn or broken drive belt replaced as soon as possible, especially since a broken drive belt could damage other components in your vehicle.

T3 Atlanta can help. We provide top quality Nissan, Lexus, Toyota, and Infiniti service at our two convenient metro Atlanta locations. Give us a call and we’ll make sure your car is always in great condition wherever the road takes you.

Filed Under: Auto Repair

Auto Repair During COVID-19

March 17, 2020 by t3atlanta Leave a Comment

We are living in uncertain times. Authorities are operating on a day-to-day basis while making decisions that aim to protect the populace. That’s why some cities, including Atlanta, are in a stay-at-home order. By reducing the number of people out in the streets, it reduces the chances of people infecting each other. Stores deemed ‘nonessential’ have been closed, but Auto repair shops are also considered essential in Atlanta. That is why T3 Atlanta will remain open during the COVID-19 lockdown to offer our services to our customers.

What We Are Doing

We understand how important our service is for people and that is why we are doing our best to keep both our staff and customers healthy. Here are some precautions we are doing:

  • clean a flood-damaged carWe are following proper disinfection practices in and around our auto shop. We have created guidelines for our workers to disinfect high traffic areas as much as possible.
  • We are practicing physical distancing within our shop. This means people will be required to stay 2 meters away from each other as much as possible.
  • We are limiting the number of people in our shop. Aside from the mechanics and staff, we will be limiting the number of people who will enter the shop. This is why we are asking our customers to call ahead of time so we can schedule them.

What You Can Do

As part of our safety protocol, we are asking our customers to also (voluntarily) follow a number of steps before and after your auto service.

  • clean a flood-damaged carWe urge our customers to do a thorough cleanup and disinfection of their car before taking them to our auto shop in Atlanta.
  • We encourage our customers to bring sanitizing wipes to clean the dashboard, gear shift, seat belt buckle, and steering wheel. You need to wipe before and after the servicing.
  • We would like our customers to disclose whether the car is used for ridesharing or not. While this will not affect whether or not we will service the car, it will be so our mechanics can take extra precautions if needed.

In order to make this stay-at-home order work, we need to cooperate from the businesses, citizens, and the government. Here at T3 Atlanta, it is our goal to provide the same quality of business to all our customers amidst the pandemic. Give us a call for top quality auto service today.

Filed Under: Auto Repair

Why You Should Winterize Your Vehicle

October 25, 2019 by t3atlanta Leave a Comment

The winter months put your vehicle to the test. Automotive repairs and maintenance can fall by the wayside when temperatures are high and ice storms are not threatening the forecast, but the rest of the year can be challenging for some vehicles, especially those that have not been properly maintained. It’s important to winterize your vehicle to make sure that your vehicle is ready for whatever the season might have in store. Read on to find out the most important steps you can take to make sure that your commute goes smoothly into the holidays and the new year.

Check and replace tires as needed

Although Atlanta residents likely will not be shoveling snow this winter, getting your vehicle ready for the winter season is a necessity for all car owners. Ice presents a nasty problem for anyone, especially those of us on the road. While we can’t control conditions on the road, we can control how prepared we are for poor diving conditions. The best way to do that is to make sure that our tires are maintained and working properly.

Tread is the name of the game when evaluating a tire’s winter preparedness. When a tire reaches roughly 4/32 of an inch in the remaining tread, that tire needs a replacement. As a rule of thumb, simply insert a quarter into a tire’s groove, and if Lincoln’s head is fully visible, you have less than 4/32 of an inch of tread, and that tire should be replaced.

Bald tires are one of the easiest ways to get in an accident, especially when precipitation is heavier than usual. Any time that the level of standing water on the road is greater than the tread of your tires, hydroplaning is much more likely to occur. And there is no easier way to end up in an accident than losing the ability to direct and stop a vehicle, which is the case when hydroplaning occurs.

Of course, things like tire pressure are also key in ensuring that those tires are ready for winter. If they are regularly deflating, make sure to have them checked to ensure that they have not been punctured. Also, keep in mind that tire pressure falls with temperature. For every 10 degrees change in temperature, your tires will lose roughly 1 PSI; in short, check your tire pressure more often when it’s cold out. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 738 crashes occurred in 2017 in the US due to malfunctioning tires. Don’t let that be you: make sure that all of your vehicle’s tires are in the best of shape.

Ensure that you’re positioned for optimal visibility

Vehicle preventive maintenanceAnother acid test for the readiness of your vehicle for winter is whether it is set up for optimal visibility in poor weather conditions. A de-icer is a must-have when conditions turn sub-zero. Properly functioning wipers is also key.

Check to see if they are leaving streaks on the window, or if the blades show signs of cracking. These are giveaways that your wipers should be replaced. And, of course, working wipers should always be paired with proper levels of window washing fluid which contains an anti-freeze.

Have your vehicle inspected for the health of its…..

Vehicle inspection is another prudent measure to best winterize your vehicle. There are a variety of automotive problems that can be exacerbated or caused by cold and freezing weather.

…battery

One is battery health: the chemical reactions which start a car’s battery are slowed down in colder weather. As a result, it can be more difficult for the battery to start, especially one which was already in marginal health. A mechanic will be able to test your battery and decide if it needs to be changed. They will also be able to identify any corrosion surrounding the battery, something which will affect its performance in even the best of weather.

…belts and hoses

Another is the soundness of your engine’s belts and hoses. These will always function worse in freezing weather, and a belt that’s exhibiting signs of extreme wear will more likely snap when exposed to poor weather conditions. A technician will be able to identify any likely such culprits and might be able to fix something that would later otherwise leave you stranded on the highway.

…oil

A technician will also be able to identify the right type of oil for your car over the winter months. An oil’s viscosity will impact how effective it is in colder temperatures; your car might require a thinner, less viscous which might otherwise not function properly over the winter.

Winterize Your Vehicle at T3 Atlanta This Year

Winterize your vehicle at T3 Atlanta. Our team will be able to provide you with good, solid advice on how an Atlanta commuter can best prepare for the winter months so that they are not causing unnecessary damage to their vehicle or setting themselves up for dreaded “roadside assistance”. Our convenient Smyrna and Decatur locations make it easy for you to get your car ready for whatever weather the winter has in store.

Filed Under: Auto Repair, Car Tips, Travel Tips

The Top Causes of Oil Leaks

September 10, 2019 by t3atlanta Leave a Comment

Any long-time car owner has been there: you walk into the garage while the car is parked outside and see oil on the pavement. Sometimes, it’s a few spots; other times, it’s a puddle. Regardless of whether you see a lot or a little, oil is supposed to be inside of your engine. But what led to this problem? Here are the top causes of oil leaks.

Car is leaking oil1. The Oil Filter is Improperly Installed

A common but notorious problem, an improperly installed oil filter can cause an oil leak. Whether the filter is loose, the wrong size (too big or too small), or the gasket seal hasn’t been replaced, any of these can cause the oil to leak from your car. If your leak has started after a recent oil change, consider checking the oil filter first.

2. Your Oil Pan is Damaged

Your oil pan is located beneath your car. This pan is exposed to the road, where road debris or a particularly nasty pothole can damage the pan. The pan itself can develop a hole, or the oil pan gasket can be damaged and lead to an oil leak.

3. There is a Problem with the Oil Drain Plug

The oil drain plug is where old oil is drained from your vehicle. Old or worn seals, seals that are improperly installed, or a damaged oil drain plug can all cause that unwanted pool of oil on your garage floor.

4. Your Oil Filler Cap is Loose, Missing, or Worn

Your oil filler cap (usually marked with an oil can) is accessible from your engine compartment and is where you pour replacement oil into your vehicle. It may seem strange that something facing up could leak, but a loose or missing oil cap or an oil cap with a worn seal can cause oil to leak from your vehicle.

5. There is a Loose Seal or Gasket in Your Vehicle

From timing cover seals to valve cover gaskets and everything in between, there are many seals and gaskets that need to be in good working condition to keep your engine in good condition and the oil off your garage floor. Seals and gaskets can corrode or erode due to the long-term stress of pressure, other vehicle components not working correctly, or simply time.

6. Your Oil Has Been Overfilled

When oil heats, it expands. When your oil has been overfilled, where else is there to go but out? That’s why overfilled oil can leak out of gaskets and seals. Overfilled oil is often accompanied by the smell of burning oil or unusual noises from the engine.

How often should you change the oil in your car7. Your Oil Isn’t Changed Frequently Enough

You may be wondering how oil changes made the list of causes of oil leaks. Oil needs to be changed regularly, otherwise, it produces sludge. Additionally, old oil accumulates debris and combustion byproducts. These ‘aftermarket’ oil additives can be corrosive or abrasive and can wear down metal components in the engine. Gaskets and seals can also erode, leading to that leak on your carport floor.

8. Your Vehicle’s Age and Lifetime Maintenance

A vehicle’s age can play a part in oil leaks. For example, large components become worn over time, sometimes to the point where even replacement gaskets and seals can stop being a perfect fit.

T3 Atlanta is an Expert at Finding the Causes of Oil Leaks

Car is leaking oilAs you can see, there are many causes of oil leaks. While the reason for a leak is sometimes very obvious, it isn’t always possible to identify the exact cause at home. Other times, it simply isn’t possible to fix an oil leak without the right tools.

Whether you’ve found a few drops or a puddle of oil in your garage, T3 Atlanta is here to help. We service Toyota, Lexus, Nissan, and Infiniti vehicles in the metro Atlanta area. We’ll be happy to find what’s causing your oil leak, stop your oil from leaking, prevent long-term damage and high costs, and help you keep your garage floor oil-free.

Filed Under: Auto Repair, Car Tips

Does Using Your Car’s Air Conditioning Waste Gas?

June 18, 2019 by t3atlanta Leave a Comment

Does using your car’s air conditioning waste gas? As a matter of fact, this is one of the many questions a lot of drivers have on their mind, and it’s one that doesn’t really get an answer. Mostly because they don’t ask about it in the open or they don’t get a proper answer from others.

As always, we have you covered with an answer to the question. But before we get to the question, let’s try to first understand how your car AC works in order to make sense of the answer down below.

How Your Car AC Operates

air conditioning waste gasA majority of the components inside your car, like your AC and radio, are electrical in nature. Simply put, they need electricity to run. However, the electricity they use to run comes from the alternator which is powered by the engine. While you do have a battery somewhere under your hood, the car only needs it to start and nothing more.

Once the car engine is up and running, all electrical power comes from the car alternator. The belt that runs the alternator is the same one that runs the AC compressor which gives you that cold breeze from your AC. When you turn on your AC, it gets power from the alternator to run and it also shares mechanical energy (from the engine to the belt) to your AC compressor.

So Does My Air Conditioning Waste Gas?

air conditioning waste gasA lot of groups have had the chance to test the mileage of various vehicles while running the AC and having the windows down. One of them, called the Society of Automotive Engineers, finally sought after the answer to the question in a scientific way.

According to their studies and multiple tests, they concluded that running your AC on your car can reduce the car mileage by 5-10%. Stanford University agreed with their findings and they both suggested you drive with your windows down when you are driving within the city. However, they also said that when you are going fast on the freeway, the drag caused by having your windows down offsets the reduced car mileage from your AC. So if you are driving at speeds of around 45mph and above, just close the windows and you’ll save more gas.

How To Keep Save Gas While Still Using Your AC

You can still end up wasting more gas on your car when your air conditioning system on your car is not clean or well maintained. When your AC is not clean or not well maintained, it requires more energy to work. If your AC is not clean, it’s not effectively cooling your car. As a result, you try to increase the temperature a bit more – causing your AC to eat up more energy.

When Should I Get My Car AC Serviced?

air conditioning waste gasNormally, you’d want to have your AC serviced at least once a year. Think of it as a yearly checkup where the technicians ensure your AC is clean from dust, pollen, and gunk while making sure it is working as intended. If need be, expert AC technicians will check and clean every component of the AC system on your car.

However, if you feel like your AC is not as cold as before or you hear any weird noises when you power it on then you better rush to your favorite AC technician. Small problems can turn into big and costly issues when it comes to your car AC. There are also times when little critters get trapped or make nests in the vents of your AC which can lead to allergies or disease.

Fast and Friendly Air Conditioning Service in Atlanta

If you have concerns about your car’s air conditioning system or you just want to have an expert take a look at it, then look no further than T3 Atlanta. T3 Atlanta is the #1 name in car servicing for Infiniti, Lexus, Nissan, and Toyota cars in Atlanta. With over 18 years of experience, we can tell what’s wrong with your car the moment you enter the garage. Call us today and ask how we can help you with your car AC concerns.

Filed Under: Auto Repair, Car Tips, Travel Tips

  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • 4
  • Next Page »

Repairs and Services

  • Lexus
  • Infiniti
  • Toyota
  • Nissan

T3 Atlanta

Lexus, Infiniti, Toyota, and Nissan Maintenance

In 1994, our founder, Charles Wright, wanted to leave the corporate/professional environment and start his own company. After months of reading business planning books, he decided to establish an auto service company. He recalled reading that auto repair people were the first or second least trusted group of people among service providers, and Charles wanted to provide Atlanta car owners with a trustworthy auto repair shop. He learned how the service business was structured, and opened T3 Atlanta to offer customers an affordable and efficient service company. To learn more about Lexus, Infiniti, Toyota, and Nissan auto repairs at T3 Atlanta, please contact our office!

Outstanding and Affordable Car Services in Atlanta

Our team consists of the best Lexus, Infiniti, Toyota, and Nissan technicians in the area. Every one of our award-winning, factory trained technicians can resolve a customer's vehicle problem. If you are experiencing problems with your vehicle, in most cases we can diagnose the issue free of charge. By offering discounted services to every customer 365 days a year, we do not need to offer specials to increase our clientele. We have an auto shop located in Smyrna, as well as Decatur/Scottdale, so owners can seek our mechanics’ assistance at one of our two convenient locations. Read More



T3 Atlanta
Smyrna Auto Repair
Located at 5322 South Cobb Drive,
Smyrna, GA 30080
Phone: (404) 794-7700
© 2019 All Rights Reserved.

Follow Us

  • Facebook
  • Google+

Like us on Facebook

Menu

  • Home
  • About us
  • Repairs & Service
  • T3 vs The Dealer
  • FAQs
  • Blog
  • Testimonials
  • Locations
    • Smyrna
    • Decatur/Scottdale
  • Message Us
T3 Atlanta Ltd. Is not affiliated with Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., nor Toyota Motor Co., Ltd.

Blog Categories

  • Auto Repair
  • Car Tips
  • Featured
  • Infiniti
  • Lexus
  • Nissan
  • Toyota
  • Travel Tips
  • Uncategorized
Mechanic Advisor
Visit Mechanic Advisor
© 2015 All Rights Reserved. T3 Atlanta.