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!

(404) 794-7700
4000 Atlanta Road SE, Smyrna, GA 30080

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

Can Car Airbags be Replaced?

June 19, 2018 by t3atlanta Leave a Comment

Car airbags may only have one function – to keep you safe from harm during a car accident – but they are harder to replace than you might think. Airbag configuration and deployment vary not only from model to model, but from year to year. Manufacturers are always working to improve the safety in their cars and adjusting deployment sensitivity and force. So, can car airbags be replaced?

Can Car Airbags be Replaced?

can car airbags be replacedThe short answer about whether car airbags can be replaced is that it depends. Some vehicles have curtain or side airbags which further complicate the question. Some newer cars even have knee or rear airbags to reduce your chances of injury during a collision.

Airbag replacement, then, is a multi-layered question. While the component can be physically replaced, you’ll need to know whether or not the rest of the affected in addition to the installation makes the vehicle as safe to drive as it was prior to your car accident. After all, your airbag isn’t the only part that is damaged during a car accident. Damaged steering wheels, steering wheel covers, and other damage to the vehicle’s interior are just a few of the things to think about when your airbag has deployed during an accident. Your replacement airbag may also need to be reprogrammed depending on the year of your vehicle.

Add to all of this the complicated question of where the replacement airbag is coming from, and you’ve got even more variables to consider. If you have to purchase a replacement airbag, then make sure you’re buying a new component and not one from a salvage yard. Parts from used cars may not be in good condition and can be damaged during the removal process.

Whether your airbag can be safely replaced depends on a multitude of factors and should be considered on a case-by-case basis. T3 Atlanta recommends that you do not attempt to replace an airbag on your own, and that you should call a certified mechanic for your safety.

Do Car Airbags Expire?

The answer to whether car airbags expire or not is more complicated than it may seem. The short answer is yes: car airbags can expire. We discuss the longer answer below.

Car Airbags in Newer Vehicles
can car airbags be replacedNewer vehicles are equipped with airbags that do not expire, or at least, not quite. The airbags are designed to last for the life of the vehicle.

Vehicles manufactured after 1998 and after are equipped with dual front airbags, which are different than dual-stage airbags.

  • Dual front airbags: Two separate airbags for the driver and passenger.
  • Dual-stage airbag: A single airbag that deploys in two separate stages, improving safety for the vehicle’s occupants.

Whether your car has front, side, rear, or any other type of airbag, the airbags in newer vehicles generally won’t need to be replaced for as long as you have the vehicle.

Car Airbags in Older Vehicles
can car airbags be replacedOlder vehicles generally feature airbags that work on a different system – if they have airbags at all. The first airbags appeared in the 1970’s. With the technology being so new, manufacturers at the time were uncertain how long airbags could last and still be effective.

Standard recommendations at the time were to have the airbag inspected every few years to ensure that the component was still in good working order. Over time, manufacturers recommended that airbags be replaced every 10 – 15 years. Even this figure depends on the condition of the car, the type of airbag, and the components used during the manufacturing process.

Replacing airbags in older cars is tricky because replacement older airbags may have expired, been removed improperly from a salvage yard, or the component itself is faulty.

Car Airbag Repair at T3 Atlanta

If you have recently been in a car accident or have an older vehicle, you may be looking to have your airbag replaced. If you have a Lexus, Toyota, Nissan, or Infiniti, call T3 Atlanta! Your safety is our top priority. We’ll consult with you and advise the best course of action to replace an airbag for your specific situation.

Filed Under: Auto Repair, Car Tips

How to Avoid Buying a Lemon Vehicle

June 12, 2018 by t3atlanta Leave a Comment

A lemon is a car that which has a defect that cannot be repaired no matter how many times you try. Lemons are estimated to affect 1% (150,000) of cars every year, according to NoLo, and can be either new or used. How can you avoid buying a lemon vehicle?

While there is no 100% guarantee that your new car isn’t a lemon, there are plenty of things you can do to avoid buying a bad used car. Here are our top recommendations.

Do Your Research

avoid buying a lemonBuying a car is an investment, so it’s important that you do your research before you buy. The more informed you are, the better equipped you are to spot problems with candidates.

When you’re shopping for a new or used car, always check:

  • Reliability of the vehicle line for the model year
  • Past and present recall notices
  • Known manufacturers’ defects
  • Types of warranties available and what these warranties cover
  • Quality control ratings
  • Safety ratings
  • Vehicle history and Carfax

By doing your research along the way, you can rule out bad fits and save yourself both time and money.

Check the Vehicle’s Repair History

avoid buying a lemonIn addition to these more general research points, you should also take an in-depth look at the specific vehicle you plan to purchase. A car that has a lot of repairs, especially if they appear to be for the same thing, is at an increased chance at being a potential lemon.

You should also take the vehicle’s mileage into consideration when looking at the repair history. Newer cars should need fewer repairs. Similarly, a car with lower mileage shouldn’t need a lot of repairs. If you see a newer car with low mileage that needs a lot of repairs for its age, you may want to have the car inspected by an independent mechanic to find out what other problems you might expect down the line.

Inspect the Car – Inside and Out

avoid buying a lemonWhile you may not be able to identify mechanical problems on your own, a visual inspection can still tell you a lot about the car. Check the inside and outside of the car to look for engine, structural, and water damage that can cause long-term problems. Of these, water damage is by far the worst from a long-term cost standpoint. After all, water and mechanical parts don’t mix!

Signs of vehicle water damage include:

  • A strange smell that doesn’t go away after leaving the windows open
  • Visible water lines in the floorboard or footwells
  • Unexplained electrical issues
  • Water stains on the upholstery
  • Rust on the undercarriage of the vehicle
  • Rust inside the engine

If you are uncertain whether the vehicle may have water damage, ask the dealer for a vehicle history report. You can also have the vehicle inspected by an independent mechanic like T3 Atlanta. We’ll be able to tell for certain if the vehicle has experienced water damage.

Avoid Cars with After-Market Accessories

avoid buying a lemonAfter-market accessories like mufflers, electronics, speakers, or other electrical system add-ons might sound attractive, but there are a lot of hidden dangers with these neat extras.

Problems of aftermarket accessories include:

  • Warranties: Few after-market accessories are covered under warranties. In some cases, they actually void the vehicle’s original warranty, leading to increased long-term costs for unrelated problems in other parts of the car.
  • Electrical system incompatibility: After-market accessories aren’t always compatible with your electrical system. Your vehicle is designed to disperse a certain electrical flow across all the onboard electronics. After-market accessories drain from this flow and put a greater strain on your electrical system that can cause electrical problems.
  • Poor Installation: Unfortunately, after-market accessories are not always installed correctly. Sometimes the problem is due to the user, and sometimes the fault lies with the compatibility with the device and your vehicle. Poor installation can cause power fluctuations, affect other electronic systems, and cost you a good deal of time, money, and frustration.

Have your Potential New Car Inspected at T3 Atlanta

avoid buying a lemonThere’s nothing like the excitement of new car ownership crashing to a stop because of an unexpected repair bill. T3 Atlanta recommends that you have any vehicle that you are strongly considering inspected before you buy. If the dealer you’re planning to shop with refuses to let the vehicle be inspected by an independent mechanic, that’s a red flag you should not ignore.

At T3 Atlanta, we can inspect your prospective Lexus, Toyota, Nissan, or Infiniti and let you know what repairs are needed. We’ll assess the vehicle’s condition and identify potential short-term and long-term problems, saving you time, money, and hassle down the road. Don’t saddle yourself with a lemon! Give us a call today.

Filed Under: Auto Repair, Car Tips, Infiniti, Lexus, Nissan, Toyota

What to Do if Your Parking Brake Gets Stuck

May 15, 2018 by t3atlanta Leave a Comment

Parking brakes are essential for manual vehicles, and can also be helpful for their automatic counterparts by preventing needless wear and tear on the transmission. A stuck parking brake may not be a common occurrence, but it’s a massive inconvenience when it does happen. Knowing what to do if your parking brake gets stuck will save you time and hassle.

What to Do if Your Parking Brake Gets Stuck

Parking brakes are a separate system from your main driving brakes, and there are many reasons that they can become stuck. It’s not always possible to know the exact cause of the problem. Try these solutions and see what works for you.

 

Engaged Too Hard or Engaged Too Long

what to do when your parking brake gets stuckIt’s possible that an overly enthusiastic pull on your parking brake can cause it to become stuck. In this case, the parking brake has become clamped against the brake shoes too hard and may actually require a professional to unstick.

Similarly, a parking brake that has been engaged for too long – such as if the vehicle has been placed into storage or hasn’t been used for a season – can become stuck in place and require professional intervention.

The Parking Brake Line is Corroded

Corrosion is the most common cause of parking brakes sticking. The bottom of your vehicle is always exposed to the road, road salts, debris, potholes, and other potential causes of damage. Your parking brake line can become corroded from exposure, which in turn leads to a brake that is difficult to engage or disengage.

  • Start your car and shift the vehicle into drive and reverse, ‘rocking’ your vehicle. The movement can help loosen some rust and free up your parking brake.
  • Engage and disengage your parking brake a few times. Like the previous step, the movement could dislodge some rust.
  • Inspect the parking brake cable to see if rust is present. If you have the tools to do so, you can manually pull on the cable and potentially loosen the line enough to be able to disengage the brake from the cabin.

Rust can cause a lot of problems in your vehicle, and if rust is present on one part, there’s a good chance that it’s present on other parts of your vehicle as well. You may want to have your vehicle inspected to make sure that rust doesn’t start corroding the bottom of your vehicle.

Your Parking Brake is Frozen

what to do when your parking brake gets stuckIce can actually freeze your parking brake in place. While this isn’t a common problem in the Atlanta area, it’s a possibility to keep in mind if you’re traveling out of town during cold weather.

If you think your parking brake might be frozen, turn on your engine and let the car warm for 10 – 15 minutes. The heat from your vehicle should melt any ice encasing your parking brake line, which will in turn let you disengage the hand brake.

What to Do if Your Parking Brake Gets Stuck? Call T3 Atlanta!

Whether your parking brake is stuck or your vehicle is having another mechanical issue, T3 Atlanta is your metro-area resource for Toyota, Lexus, Infiniti, and Nissan vehicle repairs. We can help you unstick your brakes, perform annual inspections, and help keep your car in top shape for years to come.

Filed Under: Auto Repair, Car Tips

The Top Symptoms of Automatic Car Transmission Problems

May 8, 2018 by t3atlanta Leave a Comment

Your vehicle’s transmission is easy to forget about when it’s working properly. The gears shift seamlessly up and down throughout the day, providing you with power and control to navigate Atlanta’s freeways without a second thought. Transmissions experience a considerable amount of wear and tear over time. Knowing the top symptoms of automatic car transmission problems will help you know when to visit your mechanic so you don’t wind up stranded on the side of the road.

The Top Symptoms of Automatic Car Transmission Problems

When a transmission starts to go, it’s a problem that will only get worse. There are many potential symptoms that indicate transmission problems. Some of these will overlap with other engine problems. If you notice any changes to the way your vehicle is performing or handling, visit T3 Atlanta for a fast, convenient fix in the metro Atlanta area.

Fluid Leakage

Automatic Car Transmission ProblemsThere are a lot of fluids in your car at a given time: transmission fluid, oil, brake fluid, and coolant, to name a few. Transmission fluid often appears dark, slick, and shiny like oil, but unlike oil, it usually has a burnt smell. Leaking transmission fluid generally appears around the front or middle of where your car is parked.

Whether or not the fluids leaking from your car are transmission fluid, oil, or something else, it’s important to have the problem looked at before it becomes significantly worse.

Strange Sounds

Unless you have a performance vehicle or a modified muffler, your car is designed to run quietly. Whining noises, humming from the engine compartment, and clunking noises are all possible signs of transmission problems. If you notice that your engine is noisy when in neutral, that’s another sign that your transmission may be on its way out.

A Burning Smell

A burning smell can be caused by many different potential problems from brakes to belts and more. You should never smell burning in your vehicle, so it’s important to have this problem inspected as soon as possible.

Gear Slippage and Changes in Vehicle Performance

Automatic Car Transmission ProblemsGear slippage refers to a few different possible symptoms. These directly impact how your car performs. In turn, they can lead to safety issues if your engine performance means you cannot respond promptly to changes in traffic.

  • Your car seems to have more trouble than usual shifting between gears
  • Gear shifts causes clunking, grinding, or whining noises
  • Changes in your vehicle’s responsiveness
  • A decrease in your vehicle’s overall power

Changes in your vehicle’s performance can also be an indicator of a bad transmission. Your car may shake or grind while driving, while the transmission is noisy or sluggish.

Repair Your Automatic Car Transmission Problems at T3 Atlanta

There are many potential causes of transmission failure. System leaks, broken or leaking lines, and the accumulation of wear and tear can all contribute to a failing transmission. If you think your transmission is going out – or if you just need a routine inspection as part of your preventive maintenance schedule – call T3 Atlanta. We are experts at repairing Toyota, Lexus, Nissan, and Infiniti vehicles. We’ll have your car back to normal in no time so you don’t have to worry about your transmission giving out at an inconvenient time.

Filed Under: Auto Repair, Car Tips, Infiniti, Lexus, Nissan, Toyota

Troubleshooting Car Exhaust Problems

March 20, 2018 by t3atlanta Leave a Comment

Your car’s exhaust system is probably something you don’t think about when it’s working properly. In fact, you might barely even notice that it’s there. Your exhaust system helps your engine run smoothly, maintains optimal fuel efficiency, and regulates the emissions produced by the engine. Troubleshooting car exhaust problems is important so that you can know when it’s time to make repairs.

Troubleshooting Car Exhaust Problems

The exhaust system is comprised of connected piping that filters exhaust and emissions produced by the engine away from the vehicle’s cabin. This ensures that passengers aren’t inhaling harmful carbon monoxide. The exhaust also helps optimize your vehicle’s fuel economy and performance.

Considering that this particular system does so much work, there are a few things that could go wrong. Here are the main symptoms of car exhaust problems.

Noise, Noise, Noise

troubleshooting car exhaust problemsThe exhaust system filters emissions that are produced by the engine, but it also helps dampen the noise produced by the engine itself. If your engine is making a considerable amount of noise, or if your muffler doesn’t seem to be dampening noise like it used to, your exhaust system may be suspect.

Noise can also result from a tailpipe that is loose or, worse, dragging on the ground behind the vehicle. It’s important to get a loose muffler and tailpipe repaired as quickly as possible.

Vibrations

Your exhaust system can leak, leading to strange vibrations in your accelerator or brake pedal, your steering wheel, or even your car seat. Left unchecked, leaking exhaust systems can decrease your fuel efficiency, increase the strain on your engine, and cause major damage resulting in expensive repairs.

On top of that, various engine parts can become loose, which usually means that parts are touching that shouldn’t be. This, too, can lead to long-term damage because the friction can gradually wear parts down.

If you notice vibrations in your vehicle that weren’t there when you bought the car, you may want to have your car inspected.

Strange Smells

Troubleshooting car exhaust problemsWhen working properly, your exhaust system should prevent against a noticeable amount of exhaust smells.

If you notice strange smells such as smoke, burning oil, or Sulphur, it’s important to have your vehicle checked immediately. This could be a sign of a major malfunction.

Rust and External Damage

Troubleshooting car exhaust problemsThe exhaust system is constantly exposed to the road, making it vulnerable to external damage from rain, snow, potholes, debris, and salt corrosion. Unless you happen to have a car lift in your garage, it’s not always easy to detect when damage has happened to the bottom of your vehicle.

The surest sign of external damage to the exhaust system is rust. You’ll usually see rust forming on or around the tailpipe, which is usually a sign that there’s more damage beneath the vehicle. A muffler that has rust spots or a considerable amount of rust damage should be replaced before it causes larger problems in the exhaust system.

T3 Atlanta

Many of the signs of exhaust problems overlap with other possible engine issues. If you notice anything out of the ordinary with the way your car acts, feels, or sounds, you may want to consider making an appointment with T3 Atlanta. We are Atlanta-area experts at repairing Lexus, Toyota, Infiniti, and Nissan cars. With two convenient locations in Smyrna and Decatur, we can help you get back on the road promptly.

Filed Under: Auto Repair

What Happens if You Overfill Auto Oil?

January 2, 2018 by t3atlanta Leave a Comment

Routine oil changes are a preventive maintenance item that’s usually performed several times throughout a year depending on how often you drive. Whether you are brand new at DIY oil changes or a veteran, accidents happen and an excess amount of oil could be poured into the car. You may be wondering: ‘What happens if you overfill auto oil?’

What Happens if You Overfill Auto Oil?

What Happens if You Overfill Auto OilAutomotive oil reservoirs are designed to hold a bit of extra oil to compensate for fluid expansion in warm conditions, and to help prevent damage to the engine in case excessive oil is added to the engine. As a result, half a quart may not cause any damage to your engine, but much more than that could lead to engine damage.

When too much oil is poured into the reservoir, the excess oil can be pulled into the crankshaft as it spins. The oil is mixed with air and aerates – also known as ‘foaming’ – like what you might find on your morning latte. The combination of oil and air results in decreased oil pressure as the oil pump is unable to continue pumping the oil effectively.

Can Too Much Oil Damage Your Engine?

In a word, yes. There are several things that might happen if a significant amount of excess oil is added to your engine. Your engine relies on consistent oil pressure to keep the moving parts running smoothly. Changes in the oil pressure and overall lubrication of the engine can lead to:

  • Engine damage such as bent rods in the engine or collapsed valve pipes.
  • Catastrophic engine failure where the engine sustains enough damage that it cannot be repaired, but must instead be replaced.
  • Excess engine wear from inconsistent oil pressure over time.
  • Spark plug fouling, resulting in the need to replace spark plugs more frequently.
  • Excess oil deposits in the catalytic converter.

As you can see adding too much oil to your engine can cause a variety of problems. But if there’s already an excess amount of oil in the reservoir, what do you do?

My Car is Overfilled with Oil – Now What?

What Happens if You Overfill Auto OilThe most important thing to do when your car has been overfilled with oil is to drain the excess amount in the reservoir before you drive the vehicle again.

Overfilling your car with oil is a relatively easy problem to fix as long as you have the right tools. You’ll need to drain oil out of your car or have someone do it for you.

If you haven’t filled your oil yourself, you may not immediately realize that your car has been overfilled. It’s a good rule of thumb to check your dipstick after leaving your mechanic or oil change shop. If the level of oil on the dipstick is an inch or more above the recommended fill level, then your car has been overfilled and should not be driven again until oil has been drained from the vehicle; otherwise, you could cause serious damage to your engine.

Engine Oil Overfill Symptoms

It’s one thing to correct the problem if you’ve performed the oil change yourself and know you’ve accidentally added too much. But what if you took your car to a mechanic or oil change shop? Knowing the most common engine oil overfill symptoms will help you prevent damage to your vehicle.

Common signs of engine oil overfill include:

  • Oil leaking from your car
  • Smell of burning engine oil
  • Smoke from the engine compartment
  • Smoke or black exhaust from the tailpipe
  • Unusual noises coming from the engine

These symptoms can overlap with other engine issues so it’s a good idea to visit T3 Atlanta if you notice any of these symptoms. We are full-service mechanics for Lexus, Toyota, Nissan, and Infiniti vehicles in the metro Atlanta area. We’ll diagnose your vehicle’s issues and get you back on the road in no time.

Filed Under: Auto Repair, Car Tips

How Often Should You Change Your Car’s Fluids?

November 21, 2017 by t3atlanta Leave a Comment

A car’s engine is one of those wonders of technology that we can sometimes take for granted. It’s easy to forget about how much the belts, pistons, and fluids need to work in tandem just to get your car moving. One major component of a healthy engine is the regular replacement of car fluids. How often should you change your car’s fluids, you ask? The answer varies depending on the type of fluid.

How Often Should You Change Your Car’s Fluids?

There are many types of fluids that go into keeping your car running smoothly. Let’s take a look at five of the most important areas.

Engine Oil

The engine oil is most likely the car fluid you will change most often. You’ll no doubt hear a lot of differing opinion about how often your car can or should go between oil changes.

Most cars can usually go about 3,000 miles between oil changes. This number will vary depending on the age and mileage of the vehicle as well as the type of oil that is used.

You can learn more about the types of engine oil here»

What are the Types of Engine Oil?

Transmission Fluid

Your car’s transmission fluid, or oil, is different than your engine oil and needs to be changed at a different interval. This is where things get a little tricky, because the age of your car will influence how often the transmission oil should be changed.

The first place to look to determine your car’s schedule is your owner’s manual. If you don’t have your owner’s manual, chances are that you can look online. If you can’t find any information online, contact the manufacturer directly.

Some older cars will need transmission fluid changed every 30,000 miles; others can go up to 150,000 without a change.

Coolant

Antifreeze, also known as coolant, is a fluid that is normally topped off throughout the year – especially right before summer and winter. This essential fluid keeps your car running cool and also prevents pipes and hoses from freezing.

You can expect to change your coolant once every three years. Just make sure to add the same kind of coolant that is already inside the reservoir.

Brake Fluid

Brakes are a more complicated system than brake pads and rotors alone. Brake fluids are corrosive and turn from a golden color to brown over time, making it easy to identify when it’s time to get it changed. The brake fluid reservoir is generally near the driver’s side part of the engine compartment.

Brake fluids generally need to be changed every two or three years.

Power Steering Fluid

The power steering fluid in your vehicle ensures that you can turn your wheel easily and with little effort. Over time, this fluid may become low or need changing altogether. The biggest telltale sign is when you turn the wheel and hear a creak. The next largest sign is that it’s getting harder to turn the wheel at all.

Most cars will need to have the power steering fluid changed every 50,000 miles.

Car Fluid Changes at T3 Atlanta

Now that you know how often to change your car’s fluids, you can keep your engine happy and healthy for years to come.

Not sure if you need to get your fluids changed? Schedule an appointment with T3 Atlanta. Every car is different, but all cars work best with preventive maintenance. Changing your car fluids regularly is just one of many ways to keep your engine in top condition.

 

Filed Under: Auto Repair

When Should You Get a Second Opinion for Car Maintenance?

June 20, 2017 by t3atlanta Leave a Comment

Most people develop a unique bond with their car. Trips are taken in, sunrises shared with, and names are given to many of these cars. Yet, not all car owners consider getting a second opinion when it’s time for maintenance on their trusty steed. With the options available to the average car owner, they really should. Here’s how to know when to get a second opinion for car maintenance.

When to Get a Second Opinion for Car Maintenance

Maybe you’ve moved away and can no longer take your car to your trusted mechanic. Maybe you have recently purchased a brand that your mechanic does not service. Whatever the reason, you’re needing repairs and not sure about the quote you received. Perhaps it’s time to get a second opinion for car maintenance.

If that odd buzzing sound or vibration has led to that dreaded high price tag repair you’ve been dreading, you shouldn’t always take that first recommendation you get from your mechanic. Newer cars are highly complicated pieces of machinery. Depending on the make and model, it’s commonplace for there to be multiple causes for a single issue, leading to confusion.

For instance, if one mechanic has recommended a new radiator, it’s worth your while to take it to another mechanic, as the source issue could be as simple as a faulty temperature sensor.

Once you have a quote from your mechanic, don’t hesitate to call around to other mechanics. Tell them what you need done and ask how much to expect to pay. This way, you’ll get a much better idea of what to expect to pay.

When it’s time to take your car in for that Second Opinion from a mechanic, it’s best to keep in mind that this recommendation isn’t just about pricing. The second opinion may end up the costlier, yet correct one in the end.

What it all boils down to is expertise and the general impression you get from these service professionals. You haven’t spent any additional money to gain the added information, and now you’re more equipped to make the decision on what’s needed next for your beloved car.

Tips for Getting a Second Opinion

You can ask for a second opinion at a doctor, so why be hesitant to ask for a second opinion about your car’s health? Getting a second opinion isn’t going to hurt anyone’s feelings. It’s all part of the profession. These tips will help you identify how to approach getting a second opinion.

  • Listen to your instinct. If you aren’t getting a good feeling about what you’re hearing, then don’t hesitate; listen to that feeling! There’s a good chance that you have that feeling for a reason. Move on to another mechanic.
  • Be familiar with your vehicle. With all of the resources available on the internet today, all it takes is a quick online search to get some ideas on what the problem might be. If what you’re hearing doesn’t sound right, then don’t hesitate to look for another mechanic.
  • Sound like you know what you are talking about. Much like being familiar with your vehicle, sounding like you are knowledgeable about your car will help prevent you from being taken advantage of. Unfortunately, some mechanics take advantage of customers instead of guiding them to the most economical path.
  • Be straightforward. Establish good boundaries early, and don’t hesitate. Know what you want, and don’t hesitate to take your business elsewhere if you feel like you are being pushed.
  • Don’t hesitate to call other mechanics. Let your fingers do the walking and call around town to find out what other mechanics are charging for the quote you received. And, who knows? They might find that the problem is different than the one you were quoted for.

A lot of the customer-mechanic relationship is based on trust. Think of it like going to the doctor. You aren’t going to visit a doctor who keeps pushing medications on you and doesn’t respect your wishes. Likewise, you shouldn’t feel obligated to choose a mechanic who doesn’t respect you or your car.

Servicing Your Vehicle at T3 Atlanta

No one is looking forward to the next time they need to take their car into the mechanic for service. That said, when that time does arrive, you can be assured that the team at T3 Atlanta are comprised of award-winning experts who are prepared for any customer’s vehicle problem.

From large scale issues to regular maintenance and oil changes, T3 Atlanta offers discounted services 365 days a year for Nissan, Infiniti, Toyota, and Lexus vehicles. With two locations in the Atlanta metro area, T3 has you and your car’s best interest in mind.

Filed Under: Auto Repair, Car Tips

Troubleshooting Common Electrical Problems in Cars

April 18, 2017 by t3atlanta Leave a Comment

Common electrical problems in cars are varied. While everyone always thinks of the battery first – and it’s true that the battery is most often the culprit – your electrical system is much bigger than that. In fact, in newer cars, the electrical system is larger and more complex. This introduces more ways for something to go wrong.

Causes of Electrical Problems in Cars

Common Electrical Problems in CarsThe reasons for car electrical problems can be many. Your vehicle might have a loose electrical connection. A blown fuse will cause problems. Sometimes, it’s that one part of the system is constantly drawing power, even when the engine is shut off, and it slowly drains the battery.

Perhaps the most common cause of car electrical problems is that the battery is failing. Most car batteries only last about five years. Cold weather can also shorten the life of your battery.

Checking for Electrical System Problems

Many things can indicate you have an electrical problem with your car. Some of the following signs could be caused by other factors, but if you find multiple symptoms it’s usually a pretty solid indication your car has electrical issues.

  • Common Electrical Problems in CarsBlown fuses: When you constantly must replace blown fuses, this indicates something in the electrical system is sending too much current through those fuses.
  • Dim headlights/taillights/dome lights: If you notice any of the lights on your car are dim as you’re driving, this can indicate a problem with the electrical system, usually that the alternator is failing. Ignoring it could leave you stranded somewhere.
  • Engine struggles to crank: To start, your engine needs electricity flowing to the spark plugs. Without a strong flow, the engine will struggle to get going, or it might not start at all.
  • Smell of melting plastic: Never ignore this sign, because it can indicate you have wiring that’s heating up so much, it’s melting the insulation around it. If not taken care of, this could result in a car fire, maybe even as you’re driving down the road.
  • Sputtering engine: If the spark plugs aren’t getting enough electrical charge, the fuel won’t combust fully in the cylinders. Sometimes, the issue might be with only one or two spark plugs, causing the engine to run rough or sputter.
  • Lights/horn/radio won’t work: These problems can be caused by something as simple as a blown fuse, which is easy to fix. If you have multiple electrical systems failing, however, it might indicate the alternator or another component needs to be replaced.

Many of these common electrical problems in cars are fairly easy to fix. Your local auto supply store will have replacement fuses and spark plugs. For trickier electrical issues, you may need to visit a mechanic to get the problem repaired correctly.

Diagnosing Common Electrical Problems in Cars

If you can’t turn on anything electrical in your car when it’s sitting with the engine off, that means the battery is dead. Your battery may be low if you turn on the headlights with the engine shut down, and they’re dim. Before you jump to the conclusion that the battery is bad, have it tested by a shop. It could be that the battery is fine, but the alternator is going out. It’s also possible that something is constantly drawing power as the car is sitting, draining the battery.

Troubleshooting common electrical problems in cars:

  • Common Electrical Problems in CarsPop the hood and inspect the battery. If the terminals have any white gunk or other debris on them, clean them thoroughly with a wire brush. Corrosion can bring your car’s electrical system to its knees. If that isn’t the cause, wiggle the battery cables to see if they’re loose.
  • While you have the hood up, inspect the alternator belt. If it’s loose, or you see signs of cracking or fraying, have it replaced immediately. A bad belt can make even the best of alternators run poorly.
  • Another easy potential cause to diagnose is the spark plugs and wires. Check that the wires are seated firmly at both ends. Using an extension on your socket wrench, ensure the spark plugs are also tightened all the way.
  • When you experience electrical problems while driving, like your headlights dimming, that’s usually a sign the alternator is going out.

Ultimately, diagnosing a vehicle’s electrical problems can be pretty complex. There comes a point when you need specialized equipment and training to be accurate in your diagnosis, which is where a quality repair shop such as T3 Atlanta comes in handy. We can pinpoint where a loose connection, unusual power draw or other issues are causing trouble, and fix the problem for you.

Filed Under: Auto Repair, Car Tips

How to Know When Your Brakes Need Replacing

March 21, 2017 by t3atlanta Leave a Comment

You rely on your brakes each day. Despite this fact, most people rarely think about their brakes until there’s a problem. Unfortunately, a problem with your brakes can have major consequences. Car brake replacement is a serious subject.

Signs that Car Brakes Need Replacement

car brake replacementKnowing when your brakes need to be replaced is a great way to avoid problems. The only thing is, you might not know or recognize the early signs. If your brakes become too warn, they might do enough damage to make it a costly repair and maybe even require professional servicing.

Watch for these classic signs indicating your brakes need to be replaced:

  • Squealing: If your brakes make a high-pitch squeal each time you press on the pedal, that’s usually a sign the pads are too far worn. The sound is made by a metal shim or indicator that’s designed to get your attention. Sometimes, though, if your car has been sitting where it’s exposed to water, the brake discs develop a thin layer of rust. This generates a squealing sound, but it is temporary and won’t keep up for long.
  • Grinding: When you hear a grinding sound as you step on the brake pedal, not a squeal, that almost definitely means your brake pads are worn to nothing. As the caliper, which holds the pads, scrapes against the discs, the metallic grinding is produced. If you don’t address this problem right away, irreparable damage to the rotors is imminent.
  • Vibration or Fluttering: As you push on the brake pedal, you might feel a vibration or slight flutter. During hard braking situations, like if a car pulls in front of you, this could be the ABS system pumping the brakes for you. This is different, because you feel it all the time, even when casually slowing to stop. Over time it grows. Usually, this is an indication the discs are warped, usually from riding the brakes as you go down steep hills repeatedly. Sometimes the rotors can be resurfaced and saved, otherwise they must be replaced.
  • Pulling: As you brake, you might notice the car consistently pulls left of right. This is a sign the pads have worn unevenly, or that something foreign got into the brake fluid. Obviously, not only can this be annoying, it’s dangerous.
  • Diminished Power: If you notice your brakes don’t stop as well as before, or that the brake pedal just sinks to the floor of your car, that one of the signs of old car brakes. This problem usually means you have a bigger problem than worn brake pads. Likely, it’s a sign that the brake lines are leaking, or at least that you need to top off the brake fluid reservoir. If you also notice an oil-like substance pooled wherever you park the car, a leak is likely.

If you notice one or more of these issues when you step on the brakes, car brake replacement may be necessary. At the very least, you may want to consider a visit to your mechanic to make sure there isn’t another underlying problem.

DIY Brake Replacement

If you’re mechanically inclined, you can swap out brake pads with relative ease. Car brake replacement requires some specialized tools and supplies before beginning. If you don’t have these supplies on hand, many tool rental shops have them.

  • car brake replacementNew Brake Pads
  • Brake Fluid
  • Gloves
  • Jack
  • Jack Stands
  • Lug Wrench
  • Wrench
  • C-Clamp
  • Wire Brush
  • Penetrating Grease

First, you want to loosen the lug nuts before raising each wheel and supporting that corner of the car with the jack stands. Loosen the bolt on one end that hold the caliper in place, then pivot the caliper to access the brake pad, which you pull out.

If you’re having trouble loosening the bolts, use the wire brush to remove surface rust, or apply penetrating grease to the threads, being careful to not spray the brake disc. Compress the pistons on the calipers with the C-clamp so they’ll clear the new, thicker brake pad. Insert the new pads into the calipers, then reassemble everything by reversing the order you followed to take it all apart.

Car Brake Replacement at T3 Atlanta

Not everyone is comfortable with servicing their own brakes, or you might not have the time. As always, T3 Atlanta is here to help. Our technicians have the training and expertise to ensure your brakes are properly cared for, so when you need them most they’ll operate properly.

 

Filed Under: Auto Repair

  • « Previous Page
  • 1
  • …
  • 3
  • 4
  • 5
  • 6
  • 7
  • 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. By offering discounted services to every customer 365 days a year, we do not need to offer specials to increase our clientele. Find out more About Us.



T3 Atlanta
Smyrna Auto Repair
4000 Atlanta Road SE,
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
  • 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.