You expect your car to run well for years when you buy it. But it’s possible to get unlucky and purchase a ‘lemon’. If you happen to end up with one of these vehicles, don’t panic! This article will advise what to do if you have bought a lemon.

What makes a car a lemon?

There is no definitive answer to this question, as each state has its laws regarding lemons. However, some general rules of thumb can help you determine if your car is a lemon.

• If your car has been in the shop more than it’s been on the road, it’s probably a lemon.
• If it’s been in the shop for multiple repairs within a short period, or if the repairs are consistently costly, then it’s likely a lemon.
• Another sign of a lemon car is being in for repair more than once for the same issue. If your vehicle has a recurring problem that the dealer can’t seem to fix, it’s probably a lemon.
• Finally, if your car has been recalled for a significant safety issue, it’s probably a lemon.

What to do if you bought a lemon

If you think you have bought a lemon, don’t worry – you are not alone. It’s hard to identify a lemon from the looks alone. Often, people buy a lemon, not realizing it until after a few weeks or months.

If you bought a lemon, the first thing you need to do is contact the dealer and let them know. The dealer will often be willing to work with you to resolve the issue. They may offer to repurchase the car from you, or they may give you a refund on the purchase price.

If the dealer doesn’t offer to help, or if you’re not happy with their solution, you can file a complaint with the Better Business Bureau or your state’s Attorney General. You can also hire a lawyer to help you get your money back.

Pre-purchase car inspection

Getting a trusted mechanic from a reputable business is critical. If you’re thinking about buying a used car, it’s a good idea to have it inspected by a mechanic before you buy it. This will help you spot any potential problems with the car and avoid buying a lemon.

General car repair services

If you already own a lemon car, don’t worry! There are plenty of repair shops that can help you get your vehicle back on the road. These shops can fix everything from minor repairs to major engine work. So if your car requires some TLC, don’t hesitate to give them a call!

Have a mechanic check a pre-owned vehicle

If you’re in the market for a used car, there’s one crucial step you shouldn’t skip: having it inspected by a mechanic. This will help you spot any potential problems with the car and avoid buying a lemon.

If your car is already showing signs of trouble, don’t worry! There are plenty of repair shops that can help you get your car back on the road. These shops can fix everything from minor repairs to major engine work. So, if your vehicle requires some TLC, don’t hesitate to give us a call!

T3 is a trusted name for general repair service and pre-purchase inspection. If you need help making sure you don’t buy lemons, you can trust the mechanics at T3 Atlanta to check it out for you.

 

No one wants to buy a lemon. A car constantly in the shop for repairs is a money pit and a headache. It’s essential to do your research before you buy a car, so you can avoid getting stuck with one of these lemons. The good news is that unless you blindly buy a cheap car, it’s pretty rare to buy a lemon. The secret is in looking for red flags before purchasing a vehicle.

5 Tips To Avoid Purchasing A Lemon

If you feel lost right now, don’t worry. We’ll help you out. Here are five tips to help you find a reliable car that won’t leave you stranded on the side of the road.

1. Check the previous owner’s service records

A car with a clean service record (no trips to the shop for significant repairs or no accidents) is likely a well-maintained vehicle that its previous owners correctly took care of. This means you’re less likely to find yourself in the mechanic’s shop after you buy it and can rest assured that your new car doesn’t have any hidden problems that could cost you money down the road.

2. Always test drive a used car before buying it

There will be tell-tale signs if a car is a lemon when you drive them, like strange noises, smells, or handling issues. Reading up on these signs beforehand is very important. Never assume a dealership or other seller has thoroughly inspected a used car already on their lot – always take the time to test drive it first so as not to buy a lemon.

3. Watch out for lemons advertising too-good-to-be-true deals

You can find great deals, but there’s a reason why someone is selling the car so cheaply. Is it poorly maintained? Does it have a lot of damage? Are they desperate to get rid of it? Don’t fall into this trap by looking at the potential savings as the only cost involved with buying that car. Other hidden fees might be impossible, and you could end up with a massive headache down the road.

4. Check for recalls before purchasing a used vehicle

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration lists all current safety recalls. This way, if a used car you’re interested in purchasing has unresolved safety recalls, you can avoid buying a potentially dangerous vehicle. This means you will avoid getting a lemon because you will spot them from a mile away.

5. Have it inspected by someone reputable

A pre-purchase inspection at a local shop could reveal issues that the seller is unaware of and might be unwilling to disclose if asked about them directly. Not all shops charge for inspections, especially if you’re a regular customer. Even so, any cost of an inspection is well worth the investment before dropping tens of thousands on a new vehicle. It takes some time and effort but can save you money down the road.

Please do your research to find a reputable place that will thoroughly look over your potential new car with an unbiased eye without charging too much or telling you what you want to hear so that they get your business. That way, you know you’re in good hands and can buy your next car with confidence.

Car Repair, Inspections, And More At T3 Atlanta

If you’re looking to buy a car in the Atlanta area, T3 can help. We have pre-purchase inspections designed to give consumers an unbiased opinion of whether or not they should purchase a vehicle before signing any paperwork. If you have already bought a lemon and need help, our team can help reduce chronic repair problems and keep you on the road.

When you are the type of car owner that likes to take care of their car, you might be familiar with this scenario: you are at the car care aisle, and you are staring at different wax products for cars. You pick one up, put it down, and choose another one. You keep on reading the fine print, but it’s pretty hard to pick one. So you close your eyes and put the first one you grab into your basket. It’s confusing, right? There are different types of car wax, and you don’t know what’s the best out there.

But don’t worry. We’ve got your back. This article will talk about different types of wax products for cars. We will also outline their pros and cons to decide for yourself. But first, let’s talk about why waxing your vehicle is essential.

The clear coat on your car is susceptible to the elements. UV rays, rain, snow, and other debris can cause your paint to fade and become damaged. Waxing your car coats the clear coat with a protective barrier that shields it from the sun’s rays and other elements. It also helps to keep the dirt and dust off of your car, making it easier to clean.

Choosing the right wax for your car

There are many different types of car wax options on the market, but not all are right for every car. Some waxes are made for newer vehicles with a factory finish, while others are designed for older cars with more wear and tear. It would be best to choose a wax that will protect your car and keep it looking fresh and new.

Before we get into the individual wax types, you should know that there is no such thing as the “best” wax for your car. There is only what’s best for your type of vehicle and needs in terms of protection and appearance.

We will break down the different types of waxes in natural oils, nano-polymers, and synthetic varieties. You’ll be able to see when each one is most effective so you can better determine which is suitable for your car.

Natural wax

A natural-based wax uses soybean oil, beeswax, rosin, carnauba wax (a tree sap), or castor oil (usually made from castor beans). The ingredients are generally blended to create the wax.

Pros
Wax made from natural ingredients is usually hypoallergenic and safe for everyone, including pets. It’s also eco-friendly. As it’s all-natural, there aren’t any harsh chemicals that can harm your vehicle or you when you’re applying it.

Cons
Natural waxes are not as easy to apply because they are thicker in consistency than synthetic waxes. They need a hot temp (around 100 degrees) to use, and they do not last long. You will probably have to reapply them every month or two if you make this type of wax your go-to choice.

If you want something easy and quick with low maintenance, this is not the wax for you.

Nano-polymers

This type of wax uses micro-particles to protect your clear coat. It can be either solvent or water-based, and it’s usually applied with an orbital polisher (a machine that spins counterclockwise, like a floor buffer).

Pros
These waxes are easy to apply because they don’t require too much heat to activate during application. They typically offer UV protection and hydrophobic properties, meaning water beads off the car’s surface like it would off a duck’s back (that means no more water spots!) They adhere well once they are on and last between three months and six months.

Cons
These waxes work best on newer cars with factory paint jobs. They may not work as well on older cars because the wax can damage already-chipped areas of your paint.

If you’re looking for a waxing product to protect and enhance your clear coat, this is an excellent choice for you.

Synthetic wax

You will see synthetic waxes advertised as “almost like new” because they are so tough. These waxes are usually made from petroleum-based ingredients that create an extremely hard, shiny finish. This type of wax cannot be applied with an orbital polisher, which means it’s pretty tricky to do by yourself at home. It’s best left to professionals unless you have experience with car care products.

Pros
This type of car wax resists fading and yellowing because it stays on the car longer than natural or nano-polymer waxes. It also provides UV protection but does not add hydrophobic properties so you may need a different coating for that feature. You will typically have to reapply for it every one to two years.

Cons
Although synthetic waxes are durable and long-lasting, they can be challenging to apply and may not offer hydrophobic properties like nano-polymer waxes.

If you choose this type of wax, make sure to have it applied by a professional.

Keep Your Car In Top Shape With T3 Atlanta

Now that you know the difference between the types of car wax and which would be most beneficial for your vehicle, you can pick the right option for what you’re looking for in terms of protection and appearance. But if your car is having trouble, no amount of wax can fix that.

If you are in Atlanta and are looking for a car repair shop, T3 Atlanta is your best bet. T3 is a trusted name in all car repair jobs in Atlanta. Reach out, and we’ll pen you in for an appointment at your most convenient time.

 

Winter is brutal for many drivers, as the cold and snowy weather can cause all kinds of problems with your car. It’s essential to be observant and proactive when winter driving. That way, you can avoid unnecessary issues before they happen. The following article will discuss five winter car problems that many vehicle owners experience, as well as how to avoid and/or fix these issues so that you won’t have any trouble on those icy roads this year!

5 common winter car problems and how to fix them

1. Drop in tire pressure

When the temperature drops, your tire pressure decreases as well. This means that under-inflated tires will experience increased rolling resistance and reduced traction in snowy/icy conditions.

Be sure to check your tire pressure at least once a month when the weather gets colder and even more frequently if it starts to drop below 40 °F.

2. Old or worn-out windshield wipers

Snow and ice can make it difficult for you to see, which increases your risk of an accident. Therefore, be sure to check your windshield wiper blades are in good condition (i.e., no cracks or tears) and capable of clearing the window effectively before you go on the road. If you discover that your wiper blades are old or damaged, be sure to replace them as soon as possible.

Note that just because your windshield wipers “worked fine” does not mean they can be as effective in the snow and ice.

3. Decreased battery life

The cold weather can be very hard on your car’s battery, and it won’t work as well in the winter; therefore, you may need to get a new battery when the time comes. This is especially true when your battery has only a few years left in it.

This is avoidable, though, and there are a ton of guides available online on how you can extend the life of your car battery.

4. Faulty cooling systems

During the winter, your car’s engine and cooling system (e.g., radiator, fan belt) are working harder than usual to maintain an ideal temperature, which increases wear and tear on these parts of your vehicle.

Be sure to check your owner’s manual or ask a mechanic for tips on keeping your car’s cooling system healthy. You can also take your vehicle to a general car repair shop to have everything checked out. They can point out if a specific part of your cooling system needs replacing.

5. Ice buildup on the windshield

During winter, ice and snow can build up on your vehicle’s exterior and make it more difficult for you to see through your windows, especially during frosty mornings and late evenings when the dew settles onto the glass. To avoid this issue, be sure to scrape off all ice and snow from your windshield before you drive. If your car is parked overnight, try using a foam cleaner to keep things clear.

If you are not a seasoned driver, any of these five common winter problems can put you in a bind. Hopefully, by reading through this article, you will understand why the issues happen and apply the solutions we have provided.

Winter Car Repair And More With T3 Atlanta

Winter weather can be harsh on even the best maintained car, and there are many more car issues that you might not be able to watch out for. If you want to stay on the safe side, we suggest you contact your favorite car repair shop so they can take a look at your car for any possible issues.

If you are located in the greater Atlanta area, you can trust T3 Atlanta for all your car repair and maintenance needs. Thousands of customers swear by the top-quality service they received from T3 Atlanta. Give us a call today, and we’ll have your car scheduled for maintenance to see if it’s ready for some winter driving.

It’s a chilly morning and you’re in a rush to get into your car. You pull and yank at the door handle, but it won’t budge. Your car door is frozen shut! What do you do? Here are five ways to open a frozen car door, as well as some tips on how to prevent this from happening again.

5 ways to open a frozen car door

1. Use a key to unlock the door

Sometimes all you need is your car keys. It’s essential to keep your keys in your hand when opening a frozen car door so you don’t drop them and lose them. Insert the key into the lock and turn it until you hear a clicking noise or feel the door unlock. Assuming the rest of your door is clear of ice, the lock should work now.

2. Gently bang on the ice with a rock or other heavy object
Using only your key, the ice around your car door may be too thick to break through. Using a large rock or another heavy thing, strike at the edges of the window until the ice shatters and you can see inside of your car. You can also carefully hit the ice with a rubber mallet or similar tool to break through the ice.

3. Use a de-icer

There are many different solutions on the market designed to get rid of ice around your car door. These can be found in most hardware stores or grocery stores, and they come in spray cans ranging from under $5 to over $20. Spray the solution into the crack where your car door comes up against the rest of your car’s body to help melt the ice.

4. Spray warm water on the frozen lock

If your key is still sticking out from the center of your doorknob, try spraying some warm water onto its frozen surface. Please don’t use boiling water, as this may cause the lock to seize up when it hits the cold metal. Instead, spray enough water on the key so that you can see it begin to dissolve some of the ice around the edges of your car door.

5. Apply heat using a hairdryer or a heating pad

A hairdryer should do the trick if you don’t have any water. Just make sure it’s not too hot because this could melt your door handle and cause other damage to your car’s interior. Instead, aim the hairdryer over the keyhole of your car door until you hear a clicking noise, signaling that the ice has melted enough to allow you to open your car.

You can also use a heating pad or other similar device instead of a hairdryer, but make sure it’s not too hot.

How to prevent your car door from being frozen shut

Now that you know how to overcome a frozen car door, here are some tips for avoiding this problem in the first place.

• Don’t leave your car outside for very long – If you know that temperatures will drop below freezing temperatures overnight, either take your car with you or cover it up. Make sure nothing is on top of your vehicle and that there’s plenty of space between it and other objects. This prevents prolonged exposure to the cold air, which can cause ice build-up around the edges of your door.
• Use a cover – If you must park your car outside overnight, a heavy-duty car cover will prevent it from being exposed to powerful gusts of wind and cold air, which will freeze the moisture that has penetrated the door shell.
• Keep things lubricated – As a general rule, make sure that all locks and hinges on your car door are lubricated adequately so they can move quickly against their metal housing. While not exactly a way to prevent it from being frozen, it will help you open it up faster in case it does get frozen.

Fast And Friendly Auto Repair In Atlanta

If you are looking for a trusted car repair and maintenance shop in Atlanta, then you should give T3 Atlanta a call. T3 Atlanta is the number one shop residents of Atlanta turn to for all their general car repair needs. Give us a call today!