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What Is An Extended Warranty For Used Cars And Is It Worth It?

November 1, 2022 by t3atlanta Leave a Comment

Many car buyers are looking for that extra sense of security, but extended warranties aren’t for everyone. Do you need that extended warranty for your car? Let’s take a look.

What is an extended warranty?

Reliability is one of the most critical factors for people searching for a new or used car. Beyond the safety and longevity of the car itself, most buyers seek the peace of mind that comes from knowing their vehicle will keep rolling long after its first significant bump in the road.

Extended warranties, often referred to as vehicle service contracts, are optional protection plans designed to provide assistance in covering the cost of various repairs during car ownership. These plans typically begin after the expiration of the manufacturer’s warranty, although there are instances where the two can overlap.

While a dealer can make an extended warranty sound like the best idea you’ve ever heard while strolling the showroom floor, these service contracts usually come with a high sticker price. Depending on the issue at hand, they won’t necessarily have you covered. On top of that, most people purchasing an extended warranty never actually use them, thus resulting in a cost with zero financial return.

Will an Extended Warranty provide a good value?

The most substantial benefit of an extended warranty is that it can save you a considerable amount of money if your car requires repair on a part covered under warranty. In instances like these, you would only be left responsible for payment of your deductible instead of the entirety of the repair. If your protection plan covers the repair in question, the warranty provider will handle the remaining cost of parts and labor. Having a trusted mechanic inspect the vehicle before closing the deal is an essential step towards that much-needed confidence and security in such an important purchase decision.

These plans are available from insurance companies, auto clubs, and dealerships. They can vary greatly in cost, duration, and what may or may not be covered under warranty. Those reading the details on these warranties are cautioned to read the fine print with a keen eye because many of these plans have different restrictions regarding which repairs are covered and on specific locations where the repairs are to be conducted.

Why an extended warranty may not have you covered

There are some potential drawbacks to consider before you sign that extended warranty paperwork.

An issue with Coverage

Extended warranties won’t usually cover anything that could go wrong under the hood. Always be sure what your plan does and doesn’t cover before you’re stunned by that whopping repair bill that wasn’t covered under warranty.

Depreciation clauses

Many warranties will strictly cover part of the cost of repair or replacement of parts contingent on the mileage of the car.

Redundancy

Most warranties place either the manufacturer, dealer, or third party as responsible for payment of repairs. If they were to go out of business suddenly, you would be left holding the bill and owner of a warranty worth nothing.

The smart move when looking to buy a new or used car is taking a pass on that extended warranty, focusing on finding a proven reliable model, and then making a point to maintain it properly. Keeping to the maintenance schedule of regular car inspections is genuinely the best warranty you can obtain for your car because you’ll know you are safe and secure in a vehicle that’s been properly maintained and serviced.

Car Maintenance And Repair At T3 Atlanta

T3 Atlanta has been Atlanta’s trustworthy auto shop since 1994, keeping Lexus, Infiniti, Toyota, and Nissan safely on the move. Comprised of the area’s top service technicians, T3 Atlanta provides our customers with an economical and efficient service that presents a much more robust and reliable value than any extended warranty on the market today.

If you are currently looking for a mechanic to inspect a vehicle before purchase or a trusted auto shop that’s committed to keeping your car serviced and safe, please give us a call to schedule an appointment with one of our skilled technicians today!

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

Signs You Might Need Car Suspension Repair

October 2, 2018 by t3atlanta Leave a Comment

It’s easy to forget about your car’s suspension, much less your car suspension repair. After all, you can’t really see it at first glance and it’s not one of the first things you believe you should bother yourself within your car. I mean, you check the oil, lights, tires, fluids, and even the spare tire but we never really think “Hey, how’s my suspension doing?”

Don’t worry, It’s not just you. Hundreds of car owners forget about their suspension and don’t know somethings wrong until something actually breaks. Imagine going 60mph and the lower ball joint of your left front wheel decides to give up. While the possibility of this happening is slim to none, nobody really wants to be part of the statistics. Right?

Signs You Might Need Car Suspension Repair

car suspension repairWe always tell our clients that the suspension system in your car works similarly to the joints and to a certain extent your bones. It’s what keeps you upright and helps cushion your every step. Have you ever seen somebody with joint problems? It’s just like in cars. If your suspension has problems it becomes harder to move properly.

But how do you know if your suspension has problems? When is the right time to go to the service center? Don’t worry, if you experience any of the 8 signs we mention here, you should call T3 Atlanta right away for fast car suspension repair in Decatur and Smyrna.

1. Fluid Leaks

Check your shocks or struts. You may notice that they have become oily or greasy. This can mean that there are leaks present and a replacement might be necessary. Without the fluids in your suspension system, this can cause the metal parts to grind on each other. Also, check for fluid trails or pools of fluid underneath your suspension system in the morning.

2. Uneven Tire Wear

If your tire is balanced and your suspension is healthy, your tires should wear out evenly. If you see that there are balding spots on the inside or outside regions of your car tire then this means you need to get them adjusted or that the suspension is not holding up the car properly.

car suspension repair3. A Rough Drive

If you experience a significant increase in the amount of “bumps” than you normally do, then your suspension might be shot. This means the shock absorbers might need replacing and your struts are worn out.

4. Car Pulls to One Side

Try this simple test to check if your car is pulling to one side. Drive slowly (it’s preferable that you do this test on a safe location) and center the steering wheel. If the car consistently pulls to the left or right then there’s a problem. The reason can be a host of different issues, but in severe cases, it can mean a bad tie rod or steering rack.

5. Car is Uneven

If one corner of your car is sitting lower than the rest, this can mean a damaged spring. A damaged spring can cause your drive to be rougher and can even affect the cornering of your car because it can’t support the weight properly.

6. Changes in Momentum

Momentum causes your car to roll, lean back, and nose dive. Check if during driving you experience any of these things:

  • Car nose dives when you hit the brakes
  • Car leans back when you accelerate
  • Car rolls (leans side-to-side) when you hit a corner.

These things are a result of a busted suspension. While these things can occur during extreme situations, take note if you do experience them even in everyday situations.

car suspension repair7. Difficulty in Steering

This one can be quite dangerous and should be acted upon right away. When you feel like your car is not as responsive and there is difficulty in steering, you should go and take your car to the service center right away.

8. Noisy Underchassis

While this symptom usually comes out after all of the signs mentioned above, this is the most obvious one. Sounds of metal grinding on each other or weird noises when your car hits a bump is a good way of knowing that your suspension needs checking.

Finding The Right Service Center For Car Suspension Repair

If you experience any of the signs mentioned above, don’t hesitate to go to your trusted service center right away. T3 Atlanta is the number one name in repair, service, and maintenance of Toyota, Nissan, Lexus, and Infiniti cars in Atlanta. We have competitive pricing coupled with years of experience. Our team of experts will take your car and check the suspension for damage or signs of wear. T3 Atlanta also offers aftermarket parts for consideration if available in order to offer a number of choices to our customers.

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

Have you Gotten Your Car’s Air Conditioning Serviced This Year?

August 14, 2018 by t3atlanta Leave a Comment

Although you might typically associate air conditioning service with spring, fall is a good time to have this part of your vehicle serviced. Spring and summer, especially in Atlanta, are high-pollen times of year that can lead to clogged filters. Getting your air conditioning serviced is an important part of your maintenance schedule, ensuring that you can breathe easy year-round.

Have you Gotten Your Car’s Air Conditioning Serviced This Year?

Unlike your engine or other electrical components in your car, there isn’t an ‘air conditioning service’ light on your dashboard. As a result, your car’s air conditioning is one of those service items that you may not think about until it isn’t working like it should.

Signs that your car air conditioning should be inspected:

  • The vents are blowing stale or strange smelling air: One of the main signs that your air conditioning needs service is how the air coming out of the vents smells. The air blowing through the vehicle’s system should be odorless. A clogged or dirty air filter is the most likely culprit of this issue.
  • The air conditioning isn’t blowing cold air: This problem could result from a few different causes, all of which would need to be diagnosed and fixed by a certified mechanic. Reasons your air conditioning isn’t blowing cold air include a faulty compressor, a leak in the A/C system, or a blown fuse.
  • The airflow is weak or nonexistent: Weak or nonexistent airflow is usually related to the A/C system fan.

If you haven’t serviced your car’s air conditioning this year, bring your car by T3 Atlanta. We can inspect the system, advise whether your A/C needs service, and make repairs if needed.

Causes of Car Air Conditioning Problems

One of the most common causes of air conditioning problems is that the freon contained in the system has leaked. In this case, you may need to recharge air conditioning, also known as an “evac and recharge”. This process consists of vacuuming all existing fluids from the system before refilling the system with new fluids.

Your air conditioning system is an enclosed system and may never need to be recharged. In older vehicles, depending on use, you may need to have the system recharged every 3 years or so.

In addition to leaking freon, there are many potential reasons that an air conditioning is not getting cold:

  • The A/C system has a faulty fan
  • A seal has become worn and is leaking
  • An electrical malfunction is preventing the system from working normally
  • A compressor has failed or is faulty
  • The condenser or evaporator has failed or is faulty

Whatever the cause of your air conditioning woes, T3 Atlanta can help. We’ll diagnose the problem and get your system up and running so you can get back to driving in comfort.

Car Heating and Air Conditioning Service in Atlanta

Whether you’ve never serviced your air conditioning, want to have the system inspected as part of preventive maintenance, or have a busted A/C, bring your Toyota, Nissan, Lexus, or Infiniti to T3 Atlanta. We have two metro-area locations in Smyrna and Decatur for your convenience. We’ll help you keep your air conditioning in top condition for cool, pollen and dust-free air.

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

Back to School Driving Tips

August 7, 2018 by t3atlanta Leave a Comment

The school year has started for many families across the nation, meaning busy schedules and crowded roads. Atlanta is notorious for heavy traffic regardless of the time of year, and the influx of teens with new drivers licenses makes the morning commute even more of a challenge. Whether you’re a veteran driver or brand new behind the wheel, here are our top back to school driving tips to help you and other drivers get to your destination safely this fall.

1. Leave with Plenty of Extra Time

back to school driving tipsHeavy traffic in the morning can spell significant delays and plenty of people in a rush to get to school or work. Book extra time to get where you’re going so that you won’t need to worry about being late for the bell if you encounter heavy traffic.

Leaving with plenty of time will also help you avoid the temptation to speed and risk getting into a wreck.

2. Minimize Multitasking

back to school driving tipsEmails, texts, calls, choosing the best song for your morning ride, and even reacting to street directions all demand a part of your attention. However, the most important thing you need to focus on is the road.

Although you may have to take a phone call or change what’s playing on the radio, ignore any incoming emails and definitely don’t respond to any texts you may receive until you arrive at your destination. Minimizing your distractions will help you stay safe on the road.

3. Hang Back and Wait for Traffic to Subside

It’s no secret that traffic in Atlanta can be monstrous. Instead of jumping into the fray, consider hanging back and getting a coffee or chatting with your friends before you start heading towards home. Waiting for traffic to die down is also a great opportunity to get started on homework!

4. Keep your Gas Tank at Least Half Full

back to school driving tipsKeep your gas tank at least half full. Even though it might mean an extra trip to the gas station, you will never have to worry about running out of gas when you’re stuck in traffic on the freeway.

Keeping your tank at least half full is especially important come winter, as condensation can build up inside an almost-empty gas tank and lead to corrosion.

5. Don’t Speed

Leave with plenty of time to reduce the tempation to speed in order to make it to class on time. You’ll be able to react more quickly to unexpected pedestrians, especially in school zones, as well as cyclists and construction workers. Plus, you’ll be able to avoid getting pulled over by the police and ensuring that you are late for class!

6. Share the Road

back to school driving tipsDepending on where you live in Atlanta, your neighborhood may have a lot of cyclists and pedestrians on the road. Be sure to share the road when you’re behind the wheel.

  • Pay attention to school bus signage and stop whenever buses stop
  • Be aware of pedestrians, especially in school zones
  • Give cyclists at least 3 feet of space when you’re passing
  • Give motorcyclists the same amount of space you would give a car
  • Be cautious when you’re driving along parked cars, as people can step out unexpectedly
  • Check your mirrors as often as you need to in order to be sure that you’re aware of who is near your vehicle; as the old saying goes, it’s better to be safe than sorry

7. Service Your Car at T3 Atlanta, Your Friendly, Metro-Area Mechanic

There’s nothing like a busted belt or a worn-out water pipe to throw your schedule into chaos. Between the demands of school, sports, homework, and work, there just isn’t time to get stranded on the side of the road.

Bring your Toyota, Lexus, Nissan, or Infiniti to T3 Atlanta before your semester is in full swing. We’ll inspect your vehicle and advise of any urgent repairs as well as future repairs that are recommended by your car’s maintenance schedule.

We have two convenient metro-area locations in Decatur and Smyrna. Give us a call today and we’ll help ensure that your vehicle is ready for whatever your semester brings!

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

Signs of Water Damage in Cars

July 10, 2018 by t3atlanta Leave a Comment

When you’re in the market to buy a used car, it seems there’s no end to things you need to check to make sure that you aren’t buying a lemon. It’s no secret that water and electronics don’t mix. Knowing the signs of water damage in cars can help you avoid the long-term costs of accidentally buying a dud.

Signs of Water Damage in Cars

signs of water damage in carsUnfortunately, a VIN check doesn’t always tell you if a car has been water damaged. The previous owner could be deliberately hiding the damage or may not know that the vehicle ever experienced water damage. In addition, water damage that was not reported to the insurance company may not show up on a VIN check.

Whatever the reason, a physical inspection can not only check that the vehicle has not experienced water damage, it can help identify upcoming repairs that may be needed to keep the car in good working condition. Here are our top tips to watch for when you’re looking for water damage in a vehicle.

1. The Cabin Has a Strange Smell
Used cars can hold onto a lot of smells from their previous owners. Pets, cigarettes, gym bags, and old spilled food or drink can lead to unpleasant odors.

Water damage in a car leaves a distinct, musty, mildew smell that doesn’t go away no matter how many air fresheners you add or how long the windows are open.

2. There is a Visible Water Line in the Cabin
A car that has sat in water for any amount of time may have a visible watermark on the upholstery or in the footwells.

Similarly, a car that has been submerged for an extended amount of time may have a water line visible on the exterior of the vehicle due to paint fading.

3. The Electronics Have Unexplained Problems
Shorts, skips, and buttons that don’t work like they should are all signs of problems in a vehicle’s electronic system.

Be sure to test out the candidate vehicle’s electronics to make sure that everything is in good order before you make a purchase.

signs of water damage in cars4. You Notice Rust or Corrosion on the Vehicle
Vehicles that have been in northern climates often have rust on the undercarriage or near the wheel wells due to the salt used to de-ice the roads during winter.

Exposure to salt water isn’t the only thing that can rust a vehicle’s undercarriage prematurely. Rust can develop on a car that has been submerged. Check for signs of corrosion in the engine, especially on connections and wires. Inspect the bottom of the vehicle and take note of any visible corrosion.

T3 Atlanta Can Check for Signs of Water Damage in Cars

If you’re in the market for a new used Toyota, Lexus, Nissan, or Infiniti and want a third-party inspection on the vehicle, call T3 Atlanta. We’ll inspect your potential new car for water damage. We’ll also give you an overview of the condition of the vehicle and advise you of any repairs or red flags we see. We’re happy to help save you the hassle of buying a car that costs you more than it’s worth.

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

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

How to Keep Your Parked Car Cool This Summer

June 5, 2018 by t3atlanta Leave a Comment

Summer is officially here and that means temperatures in the high 90’s. Atlanta is known for its heat and fortunately, most businesses and homes are well equipped to meet the challenge. But what about your car? Your car can stay cool while it’s running, but when you park your car, the interior can quickly become like an oven. Here are top tips on how to keep your parked car cool this summer.

How to Keep Your Parked Car Cool This Summer

There are many ways to keep your parked car cool when the temperatures are approaching the triple digits. Combining these tips is your best bet to keep your vehicle’s temperature manageable. Keeping your vehicle’s interior temperature lower can also help prevent damage to internal electronics caused by heat waves.

Get a Sun Screen for Your Windshield

keep your parked car coolA sun screen is an affordable and easy way to not only keep the temperature inside your vehicle cooler but prevent damage to your dashboard and electronics caused by regular exposure to heat and UV rays.

Most sun screens block out light and act as an insulator to help keep the temperatures from climbing too high. You can get generic sun screens at your local auto supply shop. Many types of cars have screens designed to fit your vehicle’s windshield perfectly.

If you have a vehicle such as a minivan or SUV, you may be able to find a side window that is customized for your windows. These side window shades help block out even more sun without hindering your line of sight.

Keep Your Windows Cracked

keep your parked car coolJust like keeping your car’s window open for your dog can help keep Fido cooler while you’re at the store for a few minutes, keeping your windows cracked can help keep your vehicle’s electronics from getting damaged.

Of course, this suggestion depends on where in Atlanta you are! If you live or work in a fairly safe place in town – and especially if you have a clear view of your car from your home or office – then use your best judgment about whether it’s safe to leave your windows cracked. Always keep your vehicle’s safety in mind.

Cover your Seats and Dashboard

If you haven’t already gotten a sun screen for your windshield, then the next best option is to cover your dashboard with a beach towel.

Drape towels over your steering wheel and seats to keep them from getting too hot. If you have leather seats or a leather-wrapped steering wheel, you can also help prevent the leather from drying out and cracking due to the heat.

Park in the Shade

keep your parked car coolWhile this may not always be a possibility, parking in the shade can help keep the temperature in your car cool. When combined with a sun screen or keeping your windows open a crack, your car will be a comfortable temperature when you’re ready to go.

Park in a Parking Garage

Depending on where you work in Atlanta, you may have access to a parking garage. You may want to consider investing in a parking pass for the garage during the summer months. Not only will you keep your car cooler and comfortable in the short run, you’ll protect the interior from sun damage for a higher resale value in the long run.

Summer Car Repairs with T3 Atlanta

Summer in Atlanta is tough on cars, but repairs don’t have to be. If you think your Lexus, Toyota, Infiniti, or Nissan may have sun damage to interior electronics, call T3 Atlanta. We’ll help diagnose the problem and get your electronics working again in no time.

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

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

What is the Difference Between Fuel Grades?

April 17, 2018 by t3atlanta Leave a Comment

When it’s time to gas up for your week, you’ll no doubt notice several fuel options available at your local gas station. Regular, Super, and Premium gas vary in price, and it’s easy to assume that the price reflects the quality of the gasoline. In fact, that’s not quite the case. If you’ve ever wondered, “What is the difference between fuel grades?”, wonder no longer. We’ve got the answers for you.

What is the Difference Between Fuel Grades?

Difference Between Fuel GradesThere are many types of fuel grades, but the ones most commonly seen at U.S. gas pumps are 87, 89, and 93. The numbers refer to what’s known as the ‘octane rating’ – a number that measures how much pressure fuel can withstand before igniting. The lower the rating, the more readily the fuel will combust. The higher rating, the more resistant the fuel is to ignite.

Why is this important? In a word, ‘Knock’. Also sometimes called ‘engine ping’, engine knock refers to fuel that ignites prematurely within the engine. These uncontrolled ignitions can cause rough idling, impact, and decrease overall performance. Vehicle manufacturers design their engines around certain fuel grades to minimize knock and maximize performance.

In addition, many newer vehicles come with a knock sensor that will adjust the ignition timing inside the engine in real time. This sensor protects the engine’s long-term lifespan, but at the cost of higher fuel consumption and less power in the short term.

What Type of Fuel Should I Put in My Car?

Difference Between Fuel GradesIt might seem like a great idea to put Premium gas in your car, but the truth is that manufacturers have done a lot of testing and calibration to optimize engines for certain grades of gas. Putting Premium gas into an engine that runs on Regular may actually do more harm than good, and vice versa.

When determining what type of fuel to put in your car, all you need to do is check your owner’s manual. The manual will indicate the best type of fuel for your car so you don’t overpay at the pump.

If your car “Requires” Premium gas, then that means the engine will operate most efficiently with this grade of gas. Filling up with a tank of Regular fuel could actually damage the engine due to the excess knock produced by burning lower octane fuel.

If, however, your vehicle’s manual says that Premium is “Recommended”, that means the vehicle comes equipped with a sensor to allow the engine to automatically adjust to run on lower octane fuel.

Keep Your Engine in Top Condition at T3 Atlanta

The best way to keep your car in top condition year-round is preventive maintenance. This includes items such as regular oil and air filter changes, as well as changing the vehicle’s fluids regularly.

At T3 Atlanta, we can help keep your car on its maintenance schedule so your car can stay in top shape for many years to come. We have two locations in Smyrna and Decatur, both of which are convenient to the metro Atlanta area. Make an appointment for your Lexus, Toyota, Nissan, or Infiniti today!

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

5 Ways to Improve Fuel Efficiency in Older Cars

April 10, 2018 by t3atlanta Leave a Comment

New cars are packed full of technological advances and finely calibrated equipment that helps increase fuel efficiency, saving you cash at the gas pump. But if you have an older car, especially a classic car, your ride may not have the latest engine technology for maximum fuel economy. Fret not, there are still plenty of DIY ways to improve fuel efficiency in older cars.

5 Ways to Improve Fuel Efficiency in Older Cars

You’ve probably heard the standard mileage-boosting advice of reducing the amount of weight in your car, turning your car off instead of idling in traffic, and keeping the air conditioning off as much as possible. Here are 5 ways to improve fuel efficiency in older cars.

1. Use High-Quality Gasoline

Ways to Improve Fuel Efficiency in older carsThe benefits of high quality gasoline aren’t a myth. Using higher quality gasoline can reduce the amount of knock – or explosions in the combustion chamber that are unregulated – that occurs in your engine.

In addition, higher quality gasoline burns more cleanly and slows the rate of carbon buildup within the engine. Many premium fuels contain additives that further help to prolong the life and efficiency of the fuel system.

If nothing else, adding fuel injection cleaners help keep intake valves free from buildup. Some brands of fuel injection cleaners lubricate the engine’s cylinders to help keep the engine running smoothly.

2. Replace the Gas Cap

The gas cap is something that is easy to forget about until it’s time to fuel up, but this small part helps keep your car running normally by keeping fuel from evaporating too quickly, and by preventing road dirt and dust from contaminating the fuel supply. In fact, a loose or broken gas cap can cause your vehicle to fail an emissions test.

Replacing the gas cap on an older vehicle every couple of years helps you ensure that your gas tank has a tight seal, which in turn makes sure your car isn’t needlessly losing fuel to evaporation.

3. Consider Upgrading Vehicle Parts

While upgrading parts on classic cars is out of the question for some people, certain components can help boost your vehicle’s efficiency.

  • Ways to Improve Fuel Efficiency in older carsAir-ride suspensions can improve your car’s fuel efficiency by lowering your vehicle’s profile, which improves air displacement when you’re traveling down the road.
  • If you’re really serious about maximizing your vehicle’s fuel efficiency and lifespan at the same time, you can always have the engine and transmission rebuilt, effectively modernizing your engine.
  • You can also purchase tires that reduce the rolling resistance, which means less strain is put on the engine, and in turn, less fuel is burned to maintain cruising speed.

4. Perform Routine Maintenance Regularly

Whether your car is new or old, routine maintenance maximizes the lifespan of your vehicle. Replace your spark plugs, oxygen sensor, and air and fuel filters, all of which contribute to a longer vehicle lifespan. Combined, these components help ensure that your car uses the optimal mixture of air and fuel for proper operation as well as help the engine burn fuel more efficiently.

5. Keep Your Tires in Top Shape

Inflated properly, your tires help your car saves fuel by reducing the amount of power needed to turn a single rotation. That means less drag and strain, which translates to savings at the pump.

Older Car Repairs at T3 Atlanta

While old cars may never be as fuel-efficient as newer vehicles, there’s still a lot you can do to improve the fuel economy in these classics. When you need your older Toyota, Lexus, Nissan, or Infiniti repaired, call T3 Atlanta. We have two convenient locations in the metro Atlanta area and can help your old car run like new again.

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

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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!

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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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