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What are Vehicle Emissions and Why Are They Important?

April 3, 2018 by t3atlanta Leave a Comment

Vehicle emission testing is a regular part of any Georgia car owner’s year. Every year, we’re required to take our cars in and have them tested for emissions as part of our annual registration. But what are vehicle emissions and why are they important?

What are Vehicle Emissions and Why Are They Important?

what are vehicle emissionsVehicle emissions refer to the colorless, odorless gases produced by your vehicle during normal operation. Emissions are the result of an incomplete combustion of gasoline or diesel and air. Emissions contribute to pollution and smog, which you can often see over the Atlanta skyline, especially during the summer.

Newer cars have on-board computers known as Emissions Control Systems, which are designed to optimize the air-gas consumption ratio. This feature not only improves fuel economy, it reduces the amount of emissions produced by the vehicle, which in turn means less exhaust and a cleaner environment.

The government has established air quality standards that all vehicles must meet. Cities and states have further varying requirements that are regularly checked by way of vehicle emissions inspections. Air pollution can be greatly decreased when all vehicles are operating within these standards.

Why do Cars Fail Emissions Tests?

Despite all the technology that goes into vehicles to keep them running as cleanly and efficiently as possible, cars sometimes fail emissions tests. There are many reasons that this can happen.

what are vehicle emissions

Common causes of emissions test failures include:

  • Malfunctioning oxygen sensor
  • Malfunctioning EGR valve
  • Poorly-fitting or broken fuel cap
  • Leaks in the vehicle’s vacuum system
  • Misfiring spark plugs
  • Dirty air filters
  • An illuminated ‘Check Engine’ light

Emissions inspectors check for several different things during a vehicle emissions test. Generally, they will look at the gas cap, any dashboard warning lights, leaking fluids, and any smoke produced by the vehicle. In addition to these, they will test the engine itself to determine whether the vehicle is operating within regulated standards.

An emissions inspection usually takes less than half an hour. The exact process depends on the year of your car, and new technology is changing the way that testing is done every year.

Cars older than 1996 are lifted onto a specialized ramp to simulate normal driving while a sensor is inserted into the tailpipe. The engine is revved, and within a few minutes, the computer inside the center has enough information to determine whether the car passes or fails the test.

Cars newer than 1996 can often be plugged directly into a computer system, no lifting onto a ramp or engine revving required. The computer system is scanned to detect whether any of the control components within the vehicle are functioning incorrectly, and if these components lead to excessive emissions output. This process takes less than ten minutes.

Have Your Engine Checked at T3 Atlanta Before Your Emissions Test

If your car has recently failed a vehicle emissions test, or if your registration renewal is coming up and you want your car to pass with flying colors, make an appointment with T3 Atlanta. We are Toyota, Lexus, Nissan, and Infiniti specialists in Atlanta. We’ll inspect your vehicle and ensure that your engine is in top condition so your car will pass emissions testing with ease.

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

Types of Spark Plug Materials

July 4, 2017 by t3atlanta Leave a Comment

Spark plugs are essential for engine performance. More than that, spark plugs are required to make your engine start at all. If you’ve ever gone shopping for spark plugs, you’ll notice that they come in several different materials. You’ll also quickly notice that there is a big difference in price. So, what’s the difference between them? Today, we’ll be discussing the types of spark plug materials.

Types of Spark Plug Materials

Spark plugs are intricate devices which conduct electricity to, quite literally, ‘spark’ the fuel needed for proper engine combustion. Spark plugs are generally made of a porcelain exterior casing and a metal core. The tip of the spark plug is composed of one of several types of metals, and it is this tip which labels the type of spark plug on the shelf.

  • Types of Spark Plug MaterialsNormal: ‘Normal’ or ‘standard’ spark plugs are generally tipped with a copper coating. These wear down fairly quickly, with an average lifespan of 20,000 – 40,000 miles. The biggest benefits of copper-tipped spark plugs is that they are affordable and run at cooler temperatures than spark plugs with exotic metal tips.
  • Iridium: Iridium-tipped spark plugs have a long lifespan, and average between 40,000 – 50,000 miles. They conduct electricity very efficiently, which provides more power to the engine than copper or platinum-tipped spark plugs. However, they are also the most expensive type of spark plugs.
  • Platinum: Platinum-tipped spark plugs have the longest lifespan of all types of plugs, and can easily reach 100,000 miles before requiring a change. However, they do not conduct electricity as efficiently as iridium plugs, which means they do not provide as much power to your vehicle. They can also overheat in some conditions, unlike copper spark plugs.
  • Double platinum: Spark plugs which are labelled as ‘double platinum’ feature additional platinum components in additional to the tip. The end result is a more efficient spark plug which can provide additional power to your vehicle. These types of spark plugs can last 100,000 miles between changes.

Specialty spark plugs, such as those used in race cars, may be made of materials not listed here.

Choosing Spark Plugs for Your Car

Before you head out to your local auto parts shop, check your manual to see what type of spark plug material your manufacturer recommends. Every car, truck, and SUV has manufacturer-recommended spark plugs optimized for long-term performance. These spark plugs are also ideal for the fuel type used as well as the temperature at which the vehicle runs.

Types of Spark Plug MaterialsIf you don’t have an owner’s manual, you can always find the specifications at your auto parts store. You will need to know the following information:

  • Make of vehicle
  • Model
  • Year
  • Number of cylinders
  • Type of engine
  • Transmission type

Signs Your Spark Plugs Might Need Replacing

Regardless of the types of spark plug materials used, all spark plugs eventually wear down and require replacement. All cars are different, and some vehicles are designed to minimize the number of times that spark plugs need replacing over the life of the vehicle. Check your owner’s manual to find the recommended schedule for your car.

If you’re not sure when your spark plugs were last replaced, you can always ask your mechanic to check them at your next tune-up. You might also take notice of the following signs that your spark plugs might need replacing:

  • Types of Spark Plug MaterialsEngine is idling roughly
  • Engine is misfiring
  • The dashboard shows a ‘check engine’ light that doesn’t seem to have an obvious cause
  • Engine has difficulty starting
  • Vehicle’s acceleration has noticeably decreased
  • Vehicle’s fuel consumption has increased

Having the right spark plugs installed optimizes fuel efficiency, which in turn maximizes the life of the spark plug. Having the wrong type installed can lead to spark plugs wearing out quickly. In some cases, the incorrect type of spark plug in a car can lead to more severe problems such as the vehicle not starting at all.

If you need to have spark plugs replaced on a Toyota, Lexus, Nissan, or Infiniti vehicle in the Atlanta area, call T3 Atlanta.

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

Exciting New Hybrid Cars in 2017

December 20, 2016 by t3atlanta Leave a Comment

These are exciting times to be living in. Vehicle technology is absolutely exploding, meaning you can get cars that offer up extreme comfort, convenience and fuel economy. Of course, leading the way in efficiency are hybrid vehicles for 2017. Several amazing hybrid models are launching soon, and you should know all about what makes them special.

Toyota Prius Prime

Hybrid vehicles for 2017You may know the Toyota Prius, which is the car that started the hybrid vehicles revolution, but you probably don’t have a clue about the Toyota Prius Prime. It pushes the efficiency level of this beloved vehicle to heights we’ve never seen before, with an EPA-estimated 133 MPGe, or miles per gallon equivalent. No other hybrid vehicles for 2017, much less another vehicle in the automotive industry has hit that figure, making the Prius Prime a true standout.

Even better, you can run errands in town without burning any gas. The powertrain is a plug-in hybrid, so you can plug in whenever possible, and gas up when convenient. Total range is amazing at 640 miles.

There’s more to love about the Toyota Prius Prime than just how efficiently it runs. The car has some pretty amazing tech, like an 11.6-inch HD infotainment screen and a full-color head-up display which puts important info on the lower part of the windshield. Other standard features like rear cross traffic alert and pedestrian detection address safety concerns.

On top of all that, the Prius Prime has a sleeker look. It’s also loaded with more luxuries. Needless to say, there are plenty of reasons to check this more premium option out.

Nissan Rogue Hybrid

Nissan has been turning heads with the new Rogue Hybrid, which is a finalist for the 2017 Green SUV of the Year award from Green Car Journal. Considering how popular the three-row SUV has become, plenty of people should be interested in the new Hybrid version.

You can expect about 33 mpg city, 35 mpg highway and 34 mpg combined with the Rogue Hybrid front-wheel-drive model. Adding all-wheel drive changes those numbers slightly to 31 mpg city, 34 mpg highway and 33 mpg combined.

One of the best parts of the new Nissan Rogue Hybrid is that the interior space, including the cargo area, is identical in size to the regular version of the SUV. That means the same level of everyday, practical utility people have grown to love.

Drivers will love that performance isn’t negatively affected by the addition of an electric motor and battery pack. Net system output is rated at a decent 176 horsepower. Part of the setup is a unique Intelligent Dual Clutch Control system. One dry clutch is between the gas engine and electric motor. The second sits between the motor and transmission.

Infiniti Q50 Hybrid

Hybrid vehicles for 2017One of the changes being made to the Infiniti Q50 for 2017 is the addition of two 3.5-liter Hybrid models, called the Q50 Hybrid Premium and Q50 Hybrid Premium AWD. The sedans look great and ride on premium 19-inch alloy wheels, so they’re sure to turn plenty of heads.

Both cars promise a sporty experience, combined with quite a few luxuries and onboard conveniences. Of course, the main feature is the 3.5-liter V-6 engine, mated to a 50kW electric motor and a lithium-ion battery. The result is pretty amazing, with a peak system 360 horsepower. The gasoline engine produces up to 258 lb.-ft. of torque, while the motor can twist out up to 214 lb.-ft. A sport-tuned suspension helps with powering through turns precisely, something you might not have thought was possible with a hybrid.

Passengers and drivers alike will love the interior appointments. Soft leather upholstery, front seat heaters, a power-adjustable steering wheel and other goodies are loaded in. There’s also the Around View Monitor and predictive forward collision warning to help prevent accidents.

Lexus CT 200h

If a compact luxury hatchback is more your style, the new Lexus CT 200h could be a tremendous option. Unlike other options, this one has always been designed as a hybrid, which makes it unusually well-composed.

Quite a few changes come with the 2017 model. Among them is an updated look, which matches the rest of the Lexus lineup and gives the car a bolder persona. That combines with some serious engineering chops, namely the hybrid powertrain. The EPA estimates fuel economy at 43 mpg city, 40 mpg highway and 42 mpg combined, which bests just about every plug-free hybrid luxury vehicle on the market today.

Hybrid Car Repairs in Atlanta

When it’s time to bring your car in for routine maintenance or something more in-depth, come to T3 Atlanta, your hybrid repair specialist. Whether an older model or hybrid vehicles for 2017, we know these advanced technologies well, unlike some places that could end up costing you extra time and money. Skip the frustration and come to us first.

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

What is the Difference Between Lexus and Toyota?

July 19, 2016 by t3atlanta Leave a Comment

It’s natural to wonder what is the difference between Lexus and Toyota. After all, both brands come from the same source, Toyota Motor Company. Instead of breaking the mold, so to speak, with different parts, the automaker shares quite a few of them between different models. This means there’s some crossover between Toyota and Lexus vehicles.

Image and Craftsmanship

One obvious difference between the two brands is how people will view and treat you. Pulling up somewhere in a Toyota isn’t really all that impressive, while being behind the wheel of a Lexus can be. Lexus vs Toyota quality might be behind some of that perception. All it takes is to climb inside a Lexus and you can tell right away that the level of craftsmanship is at least a little higher than in a comparable Toyota.

Mechanical Differences

what is the difference between lexus and toyotaAn even bigger deal is the mechanical differences, especially when it comes to engines. The funny thing is there’s little difference, if any at all, in Lexus vs Toyota reliability. Both brands are safe bets if you want to own something that will last a long time without needing repairs constantly. This fact alone is one of the big draws to either option. The reliability for both brands is partly because certain engines are used in Toyota and Lexus models. The Toyota Avalon and Lexus ES are powered by the same 3.5-liter V-6 engine, which is also used in the Highlander, Camry and Lexus RX. The 2.5-liter hybrid powertrain is the exact same as well.

Mechanically speaking, the Toyota Land Cruiser and Lexus GX are exactly the same, just like certain other Lexus and Toyota vehicles.

There are some engines that don’t cross over from one brand to the other – mainly in sporty Lexus vehicles. Most of these engines are too performance-oriented to really fit with the Toyota brand image, which is often favored by people who want a tamer experience in their vehicle. They also would inflate the price of different Toyotas too much, pushing well beyond the budget-friendly nature of the brand.

Toyota Motor Company is legendary for its impressive manufacturing quality controls. Other corporations, business schools, and many others study and try to copy how the automaker runs things in its factories. All of this means that as a consumer, you don’t have to worry nearly as much about shoddy workmanship when it comes to Toyota and Lexus engines.

Lexus Pros

Lexus_RX_350_Tungsten_PearlPlenty of people choose to purchase a Lexus and never have any real complaints. They’re highly reliable and are packed with incredible luxuries like soft leather upholstery, seat heaters/ventilation, and wood inlays, to name a few. Lexus has a tremendous reputation for making cars that run smoothly, and interiors that are supremely quiet.

When it comes to styling, Lexus goes all-out as well. All models feature nice wheels, sharp body lines, and premium paint options. That pairs with an all-around edgier performance vehicle lineup, called F Sport, with no similar option for Toyotas.

Lexus Cons

Despite all the great reasons to get a Lexus, there are some drawbacks you need to know about. The primary one has to do with cost. All you have to do is glance at any Lexus to see that they’re expensive. Buying them used doesn’t save too much on cost, but that’s also a good thing since you don’t lose as much money after you buy one.

Depending on the type of work you need to have done on your Lexus, it can cost more than with a Toyota. This is often because of all the extra systems and onboard technologies, which require technicians to do more work for a similar repair.

Toyota Pros

what is the difference between lexus and toyotaToyotas are popular for some pretty compelling reasons. Reliability is obviously one, and so is great value retention. Toyotas are plentiful, so you can usually find just the right one without too much hassle. Because they’re popular, it isn’t difficult to find parts, servicing or aftermarket add-ons.

Toyota Cons

No car brand is perfect, but Toyota’s pretty close. Still, there are some issues such as airbags and speed control that you need to know about before making a purchasing decision. Getting a used Toyota can be a little pricey, because quite a few people don’t want to let go of theirs until it’s pretty used-up.

T3 Atlanta

You can’t go wrong with a vehicle from the Toyota Motor Company, whether it’s a Lexus or a Toyota. Ultimately, cost, lifestyle, and preference will determine what’s the best vehicle choice for you.

At T3 Atlanta, we service both Toyota and Lexus vehicles. When it’s time for your regular oil change or you need something more in-depth, we’ve got you covered. Make an appointment at either our Smyrna or Decatur location!

Filed Under: Car Tips, Lexus, Toyota

Should a Lexus Dealership Do Body Repairs or an Independent Shop?

June 7, 2016 by t3atlanta Leave a Comment

Nobody enjoys having to do body repairs on their car. They can be expensive, and usually are preceded with another headache such as a crash. When you’re looking for a Lexus body shop in Atlanta, one of the first questions that comes up is which should you use: a dealership or an independent shop?

Should a Lexus Dealership Do Body Repairs or an Independent Shop? 

Choosing the right shop for you can be a touchy issue, because car repairs of any kind are usually wrapped up in considerable emotions. Some people might just say it’s best to go with the cheapest option, but when you have a quality vehicle like a Lexus, that’s not the best way to truly take care of it. After all, you wouldn’t have a person replace the roof on your mansion simply because they submitted the lowest bid. What if that person had little to no experience?


Look for a Lexus-Certified Collision Center

Lexus body shop AtlantaFirst off, you should look for a Lexus certified collision center. They’re not on every street corner, so that eliminates quite a few options. You wouldn’t want to take you beloved car to a hack, or someone who says they can fix it, but in reality doesn’t know how to do it. Lexus body repair can be a tricky job even if you’re doing it correctly, so this kind of work should only be reserved for highly trained and seasoned technicians.

Research your Dealership

It might seem that any dealership is best equipped to perform Lexus body repair of any kind. Just because it appears that way doesn’t mean that’s what you should do, even though dealerships try to play up this for their marketing. It’s true that technicians at dealerships often have factory training, and they know the specific brand quite well. Just remember that independent shops can also have technicians who are factory trained and certified in a variety of areas. They might know your particular vehicle even better than the dealer, because they’ve been working on them for far longer.

Body Repair vs Other Types of Car Repairs

Lexus body shop AtlantaBody repair is a horse of a different color when compared to other types of car repairs. With dealerships, they’re under extreme pressure to boost profits. You might think this is no big deal, but it changes things. This push for bigger profits is being driven by the fact that how much a dealer makes from new vehicle sales is decreasing. You’ve probably noticed that dealerships talk up their service department more than ever, and this is why.

While you can’t fault a dealer for trying to keep the lights on, some of the methods being used to turn more of a profit leaves customers with problems they didn’t bargain for. When you go to a dealership and have body work done, the emphasis is on getting the job done quickly. The service department has a fee schedule that calculates how many hours it typically takes to do a repair, and that’s what they charge. If a technician can do the job faster, it’s more money. This encourages rushing through jobs quickly, which can lead to big errors you might not even notice at first.

Lexus Body Repairs at T3 Atlanta

At T3 Atlanta we don’t rush body repairs for a Lexus or any other brand. Instead, our technicians are trained to do the job right the first time, and to take as long as necessary to ensure that’s the case.

Lexus body shop AtlantaSome dealerships don’t even do body repairs themselves. Instead, they outsource to an unnamed shop, so your car goes to a place you don’t know. One would hope they do good work, but with an emphasis on profitability at dealers, this sadly isn’t the case far too often.

When you come to T3 Atlanta, you get your Lexus back in fantastic condition, and don’t have to deal with any surprises as a repair done shoddily leads to other problems in the future. After all, we don’t have any incentive to sell you a new vehicle because there’s something wrong with your current one.

At T3 Atlanta we don’t outsource Lexus body repairs. Instead, we do everything in-house so that we can guarantee everything is done correctly. We have an excellent reputation to defend, and we earned it by doing good work, making our customers so satisfied they referred their fellow Lexus owners.

 

Filed Under: Lexus

Lexus vs Mercedes Maintenance Cost

March 16, 2016 by t3atlanta Leave a Comment

When people are shopping for cars, they should take into account a number of factors. While price and options are of course important, vehicles can cost owners in a number of hidden ways. For example, poor fuel economy can make owning any car a much more expensive proposition over the long run, especially if the cost of fuel suddenly spikes. Insurance is another cost that’s transparent to a number of shoppers, but will definitely affect their monthly budget. Many call these kinds of factors the hidden costs of car ownership, and if you’re not careful they can really constrict your finances.

Lexus Maintenance Recommendation

Especially when looking at a Lexus versus a Mercedes, one area that can make the purchase quite a bit more expensive and an overall hassle is maintenance. The Lexus maintenance recommendation helps lower the cost of ownership considerably, which not only means less time spent taking the vehicle in for work to be done, but also less hassle year after year. The lower rate of Lexus maintenance problems also means you can afford a nicer vehicle, because less of your money goes toward keeping it running properly.

Many times in the past, Consumer Reports has cited quite a few Lexus vehicles for a low cost of ownership during the first five years. On the lexus maintenance recommendation Lexus CT 200h (ZWA10R) F Sport hatchback - T3 Atlantaflip side, several Mercedes models have been called out by the organization for some of the highest costs of ownership.

For example, in 2012 Consumer Reports listed out the best and worst upscale and luxury cars for cost of ownership. The cost per year for the first five years with the Lexus CT 200h was tied for the top spot at a mere $7,750. Part of the low cost of owning the car no doubt has to do with its ability to sip gas, but some of it has to do with the fact that Lexus maintenance problems are typically infrequent.

In the same findings Consumer Reports found that the Mercedes-Benz S550 had one of the highest cost of ownership averages for the first five years. The yearly total came in at a whopping $20,500, which seriously inflates what it actually costs to drive the luxury sedan.

That’s not all, for the same report the Mercedes-Benz E350 also landed in the group of upscale or luxury cars with the highest cost of ownership. While not as bad as the S550, the midsize premium sedan scored an average yearly amount of $13,500, which is still well beyond what a person would pay out annually with a Lexus ES or GS.

Still not convinced? In the same study, Consumer Reports cited the Lexus RX 350 as having one of the best annual cost of ownership averages out of upscale and luxury SUVs. Mercedes didn’t fare nearly as well, with three models landing in the worst category. The ML350, GL350 BlueTec and GL450 will all cost their owners significantly more.

Lexus Maintenance Price

While some don’t believe that the Lexus maintenance price is a better deal than what they’d shell out on a Mercedes, quite a few credible lexus maintenance recommendation Lexus_RX_350_Tungsten_Pearl - T3 Atlantapublications have confirmed this fact on a number of vehicle comparisons throughout the years. Forbes, a respected business magazine, took a look at the cost of ownership difference between the Lexus RX 350 and Mercedes GLK. Both sell for pretty close to the same price, but they’re anything but equal when it comes to the 5-year cost of ownership.

According to Forbes’ calculations, the RX 350 retailed for an average $35,542, with the 5-year cost of ownership coming in at $52,381. While that might sound like a lot, it actually edges out the Mercedes. With an average price of $33,709 for the GLK, which is almost $2,000 less than the Lexus, it’s surprising that the 5-year cost of ownership estimate comes in at $53,361.

Quite a few people have realized that they can have the dramatic styling, cutting-edge technologies and extreme comforts offered by different luxury brands, but without the maintenance headaches, if they go with Lexus. This has fueled strong sales for Lexus, because everyone loves to save some money. Instead of spending hard-earned cash on vehicle maintenance, Lexus owners can travel, set aside more for retirement or achieve whatever other goals they might have.

T3 Atlanta

At T3 Atlanta we also provide competitive rates for Lexus maintenance and repairs, so contact us today to set up an appointment.

Filed Under: Lexus

Recommended Service Schedule for Your Lexus

December 23, 2015 by t3atlanta Leave a Comment

Importance of Regular Maintenance

Congratulations! You’ve invested wisely in a Lexus automobile. Protect your investment by following the recommended service schedule for your Lexus. If you have questions about your Lexus maintenance schedule, T3 Atlanta can help you understand the service required to ensure your vehicle’s performance.

Following the recommended service schedule for your Lexus will increase the value of the car when you are ready to sell it. Following a general maintenance service schedule will improve your Lexus’ reliability and will help make your vehicle last for years.

Recommended Service Schedule for Your Lexus - Lexus LS 400We realize you have a busy schedule so let us keep track of your maintenance and service needs for your Lexus. You can depend on T3 Atlanta to keep in contact with you for service reminders.

T3 Atlanta Offers Outstanding Customer Support

We built our business on meeting and exceeding our customer’s needs. Our Service Technicians want you to become a regular customer and are there to fulfill your auto service needs. Bring your Lexus to us for your repair and maintenance needs. We are willing to go the extra mile because we believe in customer service first.

Your Lexus automobile service needs are important to us. Did you know that there are electronic features in your Lexus that can be programmed just for you? Learn more about what features you would like programmed into your Lexus by talking with your service technician. Taking advantage of all the available automobile features will increase the satisfaction of your driving experience.

Preventive Care is Best

It is important the oil be checked regularly to avoid costly repairs in the future on your Lexus. There are certain variables that will determine when is good time to have that done. These variables consist of; the age of your vehicle, the type of climate you are driving in, the amount of regular drive time, and the street conditions of the roads you regularly travel. All of these variables will factor into when you have the oil changed.

At T3 Atlanta, we take the guesswork out of maintaining your Lexus. You and our staff will work together, as a team, to determine the best plan to schedule your services. Consult with your Service Technician to figure what is best for your situation.

Different Types of Oil

There are two choices in deciding what type of oil to use in your Lexus. Decide whether you want to use synthetic or non-synthetic oil in your vehicle engine. Generally, late model European makes, hybrids and some high performance cars require synthetic oil.

Synthetic oil could cost you more upfront, but it could extend the life of the car’s engine. Consult with your Service Technician and decide what your vehicle needs. Your choice could change the rate at which you have your Lexus serviced.

Maintenance Routine

Get your maintenance done regularly and you could avoid costly repair bills in the future. Lexus recommends that you have maintenance done every six months or 5000 miles, whichever comes first.

Recommended Service Schedule for Your Lexus - T3-Atlanta-Once at our shop, our Service Technician will thoroughly inspect your Lexus and determine what it needs. Our technicians are highly-trained and experienced in Lexus service.

The regular Lexus maintenance routine while in the shop will include:

  • check the installation of driver-side floor mat
  • check and adjust fluid levels
  • replace engine oil and filter
  • replace air filter
  • rotate tires
  • check brake pads & rotors
  • inspect wiper blades
  • check for recalls on the model
  • reset your maintenance reminder light
  • road test the vehicle

We Want Your Business

Partner with T3 Atlanta to get the most out of Lexus. By providing great customer service we have established a long term relationship with our customers.

T3 Atlanta can provide a wealth of information to make your vehicle last. Get your maintenance done regularly and use all the resources available to you as a T3 Atlanta customer.

Your Lexus should be an investment you would gladly make all over again. Here at T3 Atlanta we keep our prices low and pass those savings on to your customers. We have built our business on loyalty and referrals from our satisfied customers. Service is our number one priority.

 

Filed Under: Car Tips, Lexus

Winterizing Your Vehicle in Atlanta

October 10, 2015 by t3atlanta Leave a Comment

Atlanta is fortunate to have fairly moderate winters – at least for the most part. Winter storms have been known to leave snow and ice on city roads, wreaking havoc with traffic and causing damage to people, vehicles, and properties. By winterizing your vehicle before it’s snowing outside, you’ll help keep yourself and others safe this season.

How to Winterize Your Vehicle in 7 Steps

T3 AtlantaEven though Atlanta doesn’t have winters like the Northeast, it’s important to winterize your vehicle. The weather can be very unpredictable, and some winters are harsher than others. It’s best to be prepared just in case!

  1. Engine Oil: The viscosity – or thickness – of your oil changes with the seasons. It is thinnest during the summer when temperatures are warm, and thickest when temperatures drop. This becomes a problem when oil becomes too thick to flow smoothly through your engine’s parts, potentially causing your engine to overheat. Changing your oil for one with lower viscosity will prevent this problem from occurring.
  2. Add Antifreeze: Antifreeze keeps your engine cool and prevents the liquids inside from freezing. Make sure to use the correct ratio – 50:50 mixed with water – to keep your engine working properly this winter.
  3. Check Your Batteries: Batteries are one of those engine features which are easy to forget about, especially since most batteries last between three to five years. It’s inconvenient when they go out during any season, but can be dangerous during the winter.
  4. Inspect the Defrosters: Your vehicle’s defrosters are critical for visibility during winter. Make sure they are working properly so that you’ll be able to see every night of the year.
  5. Tires and Tire Pressure: Your tire pressure changes depending on the season due to consistently hot or cold temperatures. Maintaining proper tire pressure is crucial for your vehicle’s stability, braking ability. Improper tire pressure can even cause tire failure in some cases. Additionally, your tires should have an appropriate amount of tread so your vehicle has traction during poor weather. This amount will vary depending on the type of tire.
  6. Windshield Washer Fluid and Wipers: Replace your windshield wipers regularly. This will help prevent you from finding yourself in a snow or ice storm with wiper blades that can’t effectively keep ice and snow from accumulating on your windshield. Keeping your washer fluid full will help dislodge any snow or ice as well.
  7. 4WD: For vehicles with 4WD that can be engaged and disengaged, consider making sure that the system works before the first snow or ice storm arrives. Even if you decide not to repair a broken 4WD system, at least you won’t be caught unawares when you most need it!

Other Helpful Tips for Winter

Winterizing Your Vehicle in Atlanta - T3 Atlanta

In addition to winterizing your vehicle, you may want to consider these helpful winter driving tips.

  • Keep an emergency kit in your vehicle. These supplies don’t take up a lot of room, and they’ll be incredibly helpful if you do wind up in a worst-case scenario during the winter. Kits generally contain flashlights, flares, jacks and tire inflators, jumper cables, and fluids. It’s also a good idea to keep an ice scraper on hand.
  • Store a spare pair of winter boots, a blanket, gloves, hat, and blanket in your backseat or trunk. These items will keep you warm and dry if you become stranded.
  • Keep your gas tank full during the winter, or at the very least, no less than half a tank. Not only do you run the risk of getting stranded if an ice storm locks up Atlanta, condensation can form on the inside of a mostly-empty gas tank and drip. This normally isn’t a huge problem, but if temperatures get to freezing, then any water which has made its way to the fuel lines can freeze and crack the lines.
  • Have your car inspected before and after the winter driving season. Belts and hoses can be worn out or have corrosion from any salt on the roads. It’s best to have any worn out parts replaced before they give out while you’re on the road.

T3 Atlanta

T3 Atlanta is the premier auto shop for Infiniti, Toyota, Lexus, and Nissan vehicles. We perform routine maintenance as well as more in-depth repairs. Don’t be unprepared this winter driving season. Come visit us at our Smyrna or Decatur location, both of which are convenient to the Atlanta area.

Filed Under: Infiniti, Lexus, Nissan, Toyota

5 Fall Car Care Tips That Won’t Leave You Stranded

August 19, 2015 by t3atlanta Leave a Comment

Car maintenance is an ongoing process throughout the year, and best when performed regularly. An emergency breakdown is inconvenient no matter what time of year, but can be especially problematic in the middle of a notorious Atlanta ice storm. Fall is the perfect time of year to prepare your car for the cold weather ahead. Start your preparations with these Fall car care tips!

5 Fall Car Care Tips

car-791092_640Atlanta may not have snowstorms like the Northeast, but ice storms can be just as dangerous. Checking that your car is winter-ready on an annual basis will help make sure that you are not left out in the cold with a preventable situation!

  1. Fluids – Windshield washer fluid needs to be replaced with cold-weather friendly fluids. You can also add antifreeze to the reservoir. While your hood is up, check your coolant and add antifreeze if necessary. If accessible, check your brake fluid as well.

It’s important to add antifreeze, or make sure that your fluids are freeze-friendly. Liquid expands when frozen, and a cracked reservoir can lead to a bigger problem later.

  1. Battery – Batteries are essential to all cars, but it’s easy to forget about them until they stop working! Check your batteries every fall to make sure that they aren’t corroding, and that the cable connections are securely in place. Since batteries don’t have power indicators, it’s usually best to replace them every 3 years regardless of performance.
  1. Tires and Brakes – Tires with good tread are critical for dealing with snow or slush on the streets. While no amount of tread on a tire can help with ice, it’s much safer to go into the season with solid traction under your wheels. Brakes with plenty of padding left will help you stop faster in slick conditions, and keep you, your family, and other drivers on the road safer.

Don’t forget to check your spare tire if your vehicle has one! Make sure that it’s properly inflated and that all the equipment is in place. For cars where the spare tire is stored under the vehicle, check that the suspension cable mechanism is in good working order. If the cable is not working, you’ll need to have it repaired.

  1. Windshield Wipers, Defrosters, and Heaters – Windshield wipers should be changed every year, and scheduling that change for the fall ensures that you get the most use out of them on an annual basis. Slush and ice can take a heavy toll on any wiper blades, so it’s best to go into the season with a fresh pair.

Defrosters and heaters are essential for any winter driving. Heaters keep you comfortable, while defrosters maintain maximum visibility.

  1. Visit T3 Atlanta! Our skilled and experienced mechanics can help you get your Toyota, Lexus, Infiniti, or Nissan winter-ready by replacing or topping off fluids, replacing lights, and performing both routine and emergency care on your vehicle.

T3 Atlanta

T3 Atlanta - Decatur LocationDon’t be left out in the cold this Fall or Winter! You’ll help prevent a major headache later by making sure that your vehicle is winter-ready now. Call us at one of our two convenient Atlanta-area locations – Smyrna (404-794-7700) and Decatur (404-633-7722). We’ll be more than happy to answer any questions that you may have, or schedule an appointment!

 

Filed Under: Infiniti, Lexus, Nissan, Toyota

Award-Winning Factory Trained Import Mechanic Atlanta

May 25, 2015 by t3atlanta Leave a Comment

Are you searching for an award-winning factory trained import mechanic Atlanta? Atlanta import car owners have given T3 Atlanta top-rating for import auto repair and service.  For over 20 years, we have been providing the Atlanta Metro area with expert Infiniti, Lexus, Nissan, and Toyota import auto service, using state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment.

At T3 Atlanta, our import service mechanics provide a full range of diagnostic and repair services at competitive prices for import vehicles to help ensure long-term strong performance and safety.

The T3 Atlanta team consists of the best Infiniti, Lexus, Nissan, and Toyota import mechanics in the Atlanta area. Every one of our service technicians are award-winning factory trained individuals that can expertly resolve a customer’s vehicle problem.

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What our Import Mechanics Are Trained To Do

Here’s a brief list of what T3 Atlanta import mechanics are trained to do for you:

  • Identify mechanical problems, often by using computerized diagnostic equipment
  • Test parts and systems to ensure that they are working properly
  • Follow checklists to ensure that all critical parts are examined
  • Perform basic care and maintenance, including changing oil, giving tuneups, checking fluid levels, and rotating tires
  • Repair or replace worn parts, such as brake pads and wheel bearings
  • Disassemble and reassemble parts
  • Use testing equipment to ensure that repairs and maintenance are effective
  • Explain to clients their automotive problems and the repairs done on their vehicles

Repair and Maintenance By Import Mechanic Atlanta

T3 Atlanta is your best resource for keeping your import auto running at its best.  We will help keep you on schedule for the maintenance service that your high-performance import auto requires.

By scheduling regular checkups for your car at T3 Atlanta, you can avoid certain maintenance and repair issues. Regular import car inspections may help prevent the possibility of a driver encountering car trouble when in a hurry or miles from a reputable import auto repair shop.

Lexus Import Repairs and Maintenance

Depending on how often you use your vehicle, you may need to schedule a car service as often as every three months. The import mechanic team at T3 Atlanta wishes to provide our clients with affordable and reliable import vehicle service, and we strive to resolve every Lexus owner’s problem.

Infiniti Import Repairs and Maintenance

As a condition of your vehicle’s warranty, you are responsible for maintaining your car. The Infiniti owner’s manual explains two different types of servicing schedules based on a car’s usage.

If you take repeated short trips less than five miles in normal temperatures, drive less than ten miles in freezing temperatures, are in constant stop-and-go traffic in hot weather, drive at a low speed for long distances, drive in dusty conditions, or frequently tow a trailer, your car will fall under Schedule One maintenance. Schedule One is for cars that endure more severe operating conditions and are required to be serviced every 3,750 miles or every three months.

If you operate your car under less severe conditions, your car may be required to follow the Schedule Two maintenance timetable, which requires checks every 7,500 miles or six months.

Toyota Import Repairs and Maintenance

Toyota vehicle owners who drive their car in normal conditions for standard periods of time may have their car serviced every six to nine months.

Short, stop-start journeys are one of the hardest forms of work an engine can endure, and if you are driving your Toyota for short periods of time, you may need to have it serviced more frequently. These types of driving conditions do not allow the engine to reach optimal operating temperature, so it cannot burn off the by-products of combustion. This may cause a reduction of the oil’s efficiency to lubricate, which may ultimately lead to premature engine wear and failure.

If your car endures extreme driving conditions, such as towing heavy loads or driving in very hot, cold, or dusty conditions, your Toyota may also require more servicing than normal. Failing to service your car regularly cannot only damage your vehicle’s warranty, but your vehicle, as well. Your brake system, tires, driveline, and steering components should be inspected on a regular basis to ensure they are functioning properly.

Nissan Import Repairs and Maintenance

If you take repeated short trips less than five miles in normal temperature, trips that are less than ten miles in freezing temperatures, are in stop-and-go traffic in hot weather or low speed/admin driving for long distances, you may need to have your car serviced at frequent intervals.

A car that does not operate under these conditions may require servicing every 7,500 miles, or every six months, whichever comes first. Certain items, such as evaporative emissions control vapor lines, fuel lines, brake lines, exhaust systems, and other objects may require inspection between normal service intervals.

Nissan also offers a premium maintenance schedule, which may optimize the performance, durability, reliability, and resale value of your car.

t3atlanta-logo-footerT3 Atlanta Locations

If you are experiencing problems with your import vehicle, T3 Atlanta can diagnose the issue free of charge.

When you are looking for a dependable, reputable, and highly skilled import auto mechanic, visit a T3 Atlanta location.  We have an auto shop located in Smyrna, as well as Decatur, so owners can seek our import mechanics’ assistance at one of our two convenient locations.

The personnel at T3 Atlanta are factory trained, and have more than 20 years of performing Lexus, Infiniti, Nissan, and Toyota auto repairs and services. If you are having car problems, or need to schedule a routine maintenance or service appointment, contact T3 Atlanta!

 

Filed Under: Infiniti, Lexus, Nissan, Toyota

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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.



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Smyrna Auto Repair
4000 Atlanta Road SE,
Smyrna, GA 30080
Phone: (404) 794-7700
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