Even the most careful car owner sometimes makes mistakes that can negatively affect the well being of their vehicle for years to come. As the weather warms up and you find a little extra energy, consider taking the time to make sure you are not making these three common car maintenance mistakes.

Not Checking Your Tire Pressure

Did you know that tires can be improperly inflated even when they look perfectly fine? Some changes in tire pressure are imperceptible to the human eye. Although tires with low pressure may not always blow out, by forgetting to check your tire pressure, you are taking an unnecessary risk and negatively affecting your fuel economy. This is especially important to consider as the weather warms up. Tires lose pressure in cold weather, so you may find that your tires need air after a few months of cold nights, even in sunny Plano, Texas.

Skipping Oil Changes

Many first time car owners are surprised with how often they need to bring their car to the mechanic. Most car owners go to the mechanic three or four times a year just for oil changes. Although it may seem like a drain on your time and money, oil changes are a simple way to make sure your car runs in top condition for as long as possible. Motor oil helps cool the engine and keep it from overheating. Without motor oil, your engine could seize up and die. When oil sits in the engine for too long, the oil will break down and leave deposits of sludge in the engine, damaging the engine permanently. Routine oil changes ensure that you can avoid costly engine repairs and the stress of a dead engine in the busy streets of Dallas, Texas.

Not Rotating Tires or Adjusting Wheel Alignment

Unlike oil changes, tire rotations and wheel alignment occur less frequently and can be easy to overlook. Tires need to be rotated every 5,000-10,000 miles, depending on the make of the car, while wheel alignments occur when routine checks show the tires are misaligned. Keeping track of your tire rotations will ensure your tires last for as long as possible, as front tires wear faster than rear tires. Additionally, a wheel alignment will guarantee your tires tread evenly. Wheels naturally become misaligned over time through natural wear and tear, uneven road conditions, and car accidents. Keep up with your scheduled maintenance and your wallet will thank you in the end.

Luxury vehicles are revered for their grace, style, class, and power. Proper maintenance should be a top priority if you wish to prolong the life of your luxury vehicle, like a Mercedes. At Dallas European Auto, we have been working with luxury cars for over 40 years. We are dedicated to helping clients preserve cars like Mercedes-Benzes so they can last up to twice as long. A Benz can often be thought of as an investment that can boost your status, but it needs to be properly cared for, otherwise it will become a financial burden. This car is often referred to as one the best car makes available on the market. Below are some tips to help extend the life of your Mercedes-Benz.

Keep It Covered

This is a simple one – keep it covered. If you cannot park it in a garage or under an awning, opt for a parking space in a shady location. Exposure to the elements can affect the paint job and cause it to chip, rust, or streak. If you cannot park in a covered area, consider opting for a car cover. It adds an extra step to your commute, but it is worth it if you truly wish to preserve the appearance of your luxury car.

Keep Up With Regular Maintenance

It’s not just about changing the oil and rotating the tires. Full checks on certain parts of the car need to be done periodically to avoid issues down the road.

• Brakes need to be inspected routinely. Any squeaking or trouble braking needs to be checked immediately, and any defects or worn down pads or discs need to be replaced.
• The electric system needs to be checked by a master mechanic who is versed in Mercedes, which we have in-house at Dallas European Auto.
• The transmission is one of the most important parts of the car, and it should be serviced within 80,000 to 100,000 miles, depending on how heavily it is driven, and definitely after five years of driving. Transmission fluid should be checked every time an inspection is done on the car.
• Full synthetic oil is required for best driving and handling, and it should be changed every 3 to 6 months or 3- to 6,000 miles.
• Coolant liquid should be replenished as needed, and any noticeable drop should be reported to your mechanic.
• Brake fluid needs to be replaced roughly every 20,000 miles and air filters at 40,000 miles.

If you opt to service your vehicle with a full-scale group such as Dallas European Auto, you will be able to receive regular maintenance on all of the above as needed without having to lift a finger. We will see to it that your car is always up-to-date on any services, repairs, oil changes, and we can also offer a number of car wash options to help keep it clean and shiny.

Typically, when you think of a towing vehicle, many people automatically picture a truck. However, while trucks are excellent vehicles for towing heavy objects, there are many other kinds of cars that work very well, too. For consumers who prefer the finer things in life but still want to keep the ability to pull things like boat trailers, campers, or automobile trailers, there are a number of wonderful luxury car options available as well. Below is a list of some of those options.

2015 Infiniti QX80

This is one of the top luxury haulers available on the market. It has equal parts class and strength, so you can pull your comfortably pull your haul without comprising style. The QX80 can pull up to 8,500 lbs of trailer and boats a 5.6-liter motor that pumps up to 400 horsepower and 413 lb-ft of torque. An advanced seven-speed transmission and optional four-wheel drive make this luxury hauler a force to be reckoned with.

2015 Volkswagen Touareg

This upscale SUV comes in a hybrid, gasoline, a diesel edition and has a towing capacity of an incredible 7,700 lbs. Additionally, it comes standard equipped with a 280-horsepower 3.6-liter V-6 engine in the gasoline edition, and every available model come with an eight-speed automatic transmission.

2015 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class

This elegant, full-sized luxury SUV is the true embodiment of a workhorse vehicle. The Mercedes-Benz GL-Class can pull up to 7,500 lbs. and boasts a number of powerful engines. Two V-6 engines, one with a 3.0-liter turbodiesel that generates 240 horsepower and up to 455 lb-ft of torque and one with a twin-turbo 3.0-liter with 362 horsepower and up to 369 lb-ft of torque. It also offers two V-8 engines, one with a 429-horsepower twin-turbo 4.7-liter unit and one with a 550-horsepower twin-turbo 5.5-liter that also puts out up to 560 lb-ft of torque. No matter which you choose, they all come equipped with a seven-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive.

2015 Porsche Cayenne

Don’t let this luxury car fool you! This Porsche is about more than just speed and style, though you are sure to get that, too. The Cayenne can also haul up to 7,716 lbs. of trailer weight, and every vehicle comes standard with an automatic eight-speed transmission and all-wheel drive. There are 4 models of the Porsche Cayenne, and they all are just as well rounded as the last.

2015 Audi Q7

German manufacturing never ceases to provide class, style, and power, as is evident in the Q7. The 3.0-liter turbodiesel engine is a power V-6 with 240 horsepower and up to 406 lb-ft of torque. You can also find it in a gasoline-powered engine with a 3.0-liter V-6 engine with 280 or 333 supercharged horsepower. Regardless of the style, every available model comes with a standard eight-speed automatic transmission, all-wheel drive, and a max towing weight of 6,600 lbs.

Tires are easily one of the most important elements of a vehicle. After all, what’s a car without wheels? In addition to being a vital part of the overall safety of your car, they can also dictate the way it drives on certain terrain. Despite this, however, clients are still overlooking their importance when it comes to tire shopping. In many cases, finding a good pair that fits your budget can be tough. Below is a list of some of the best tire model available on the market. This can help you make an informed decision on which set of tires is best for you. Always remember if your car needs maintenance, the experts at Dallas European Auto have over 40 years of experience with cars of all makes and models.

Michelin Defender

Good For: All Season

These common tires are an excellent solution for a driver who drives a moderate amount and wants to purchase a durable set of tires that will be suitable for all temperatures. In some cases, you can expect a tread life of up to 90,000 miles. This selection offers secure handling, a quiet ride, and is a great choice for older vehicles.

Michelin X-Ice XI3

Good For: Winter/Snow

If you find yourself doing heavy driving in perilous conditions like sleet, snow, or hail, a set of sturdy winter tires will help ensure your safety on the road. These tires are the ideal choice for those harsh winter months, as they have deep treads that are specially designed to offer traction in the snow and ice while maintaining a smooth ride for the driver.

Pirelli P Zero

Good For: Summer Use

These wheels are ultra-high-performance tires with a speed rating of over 149 mph! They are available in a number of sizes so they can fit on just about any sports model coupe or sedan. These tires are intended to offer the ultimate in wet and dry handling but be advised they are not recommended for short weather. These tires are perfect for the individual who does a constant amount of driving and wants the ultimate performance tool for those summer months.

Continental PureContact

Good For: All-Season

For drivers who wants a tire suitable for every season but with a heavier emphasis on high-performance handling, the Continental PureContact is a great choice. These have a slightly high-speed rating than standard tires, and they boast remarkable dry and wet braking, hydroplaning resistance, braking, and tread life.

Michelin LTX M/S2

Good For: Trucks, All-Season

This option is specially designed to suitable the heavy hauls that a pickup truck or SUV can pull. In addition, they are created to remain durable no matter the weather, as the four-season grip in the treads can stand up to snow as well as dry condition. Plus, a smooth and quiet ride can be expected alongside long lasting tread life.

Everyone likes the look of a sleek, shiny clean car, right? Which is why keeping up with regular cash washes is important. But it goes beyond just aesthetics, a regular professional car wash can help preserve the exterior of your car and keep it from deteriorating over time. Plus, it can help to protect the resale value of your car. Car experts everywhere recommend a detailed car wash with a professional service like Dallas European Auto Repair regularly to help your car spotless inside and out!

Ideally, for clients who use their car often and are required to park on the street or park in uncovered areas for extended periods of time, we recommend a weekly car wash and vacuuming. We understand that this may not be a feasible or even necessary option for everyone, however. For people who use their car minimally or can park in a covered area will be just fine with a bimonthly or even monthly cleaning service. Car experts recommend regular professional car cleaning services because they are time saving, more environmentally friendly, and overall more concise than at-home car washes. Even with the most professional soaps and sponges, you can almost never mimic a professional wash at home.

Keep Your Car In Pristine Condition

It is not hard for cleaning the car to end up low on your list of priorities, especially when you have a busy schedule to attend to! Garbage seems to effortlessly pile up on your floor and between your seats, while dirt and dust from outside settle on your paint and leaves a grimy coating. All of this can be more than just an eyesore, but it can also be potentially detrimental to your car’s overall lifespan. Letting dirt accumulate inside and outside your car can lower the overall value of your car, which can affect how much you would receive if you wanted to resell the vehicle. It can also damage the paint job, the interior material, and contribute to the overall wear and tear of the car. This can all be doubled if you own two or more cars. Washing them at home can also lead to the run-off of soap, grime, debris, and other unhealthy materials into water systems and often requires an excessive amount of water. Plus, all those cleaning materials can cost a fortune and might not even give you a sparkling finish. At Dallas European Auto, you can trust the professionals with over 40 years of service to take care of your car. We put care and attention into every single vehicle we maintain to ensure a superb finish that can help to keep your car beautiful for years to come.

A leather interior gives your vehicle an expensive and luxurious appearance, but the leather inside an automobile needs some special care and attention. In order to keep the leather looking its finest, you will need to routinely clean and condition the material. A little bit of maintenance is much easier than having to repair or replace your car’s leather interior.

What Happens to Leather When It is Not Cleaned and Conditioned?

When leather is not properly cleaned and conditioned, it starts to dry out and crack. The leather may also begin to peel, leaving behind undyed areas. The beautiful sheen is replaced with a dull, drab appearance. Leather interiors tend to age faster in warmer climates, but exposure to rain and other types of moisture can also prematurely age the material. At some point, the damage cannot be repaired with any level of conditioning.

How Do I Take Care of My Leather Interior?

Taking care of your leather interior is a two-step process. First, clean the leather using a high-quality cleaner that is specifically designed for leather interiors. Avoid products that contain heavy oils that may leave behind a residue or create streaks on the material. Cleaning is needed because, like other materials, leather can be covered with dirt, oils, and other substances. Specialty leather products not only clean the leather but also help moisturize the material and provide a layer of protection. You should use a high-quality microfiber cloth to apply the cleaner, and use a different section of the cloth as it becomes covered with dirt and oils. When you apply the cleaner, you do not want to scrub the leather. Instead, move the cloth back-and-forth and in a circular motion to agitate the surface. This will open the pores of the leather so that dirt and oil can be removed deeper in the leather.

Conditioning Your Leather

After the leather is completely clean, you need to condition the material. Again we recommend a high-quality specialty leather conditioner. The purpose of conditioning the leather is to moisturize and nourish the fibers of the material. Properly conditioned leather ages more slowly and is more resilient to wear and damage. When choosing a leather conditioner, avoid products that contain silicone, silicone oils, gloss agents and petroleum distillates, as these substances leave behind a greasy film that attracts dirt and can even transfer onto your clothing. The best leather conditioners have pH-balanced, water-based formulations. Some of these products also provide waterproofing and stain repellents for the leather.

Just a little care and attention goes a long way with your leather interior. By cleaning and conditioning the leather using high-quality products, the material maintains a beautiful sheen, resists damage caused by the sun and elements and withstands the stress of normal use. For more information on proper vehicle maintenance, contact Dallas European Auto today to speak to a professional.

Your car or truck is one of the largest investments you will make, and you want to keep the cost of operation manageable. Routine expenses, such as repairs, insurance, and gasoline, may be outside your control most times, but you can take some steps to keep your vehicle running efficiently. An engine that runs efficiently not only saves you in gasoline costs, but also experiences less “wear and tear” that may shorten the life of the engine. Following these recommendations ensures that you have a reliable mode of transportation for many years rather than needing to trade in your vehicle every few years.

Good Driving Habits

How you drive your vehicle affects how long the engine and other components will last. If you get on the gas a little too much, take the vehicle over terrain that it was not designed for or slam on the brakes at every stop light, you may see more repair bills and lower fuel efficiency than owners who drive more conservatively.

Self-Checks

Knowing your vehicle is a great way to find problems early. Every month or two take a few minutes to look under the hood and at the undercarriage. You do not need to know exactly what you are looking at, but with time you will be able to note any changes, such as leaks, undercarriage damage, rust, dirt build-up and other signs that your car may need some extra attention.

Reliable Mechanics

Having a reliable mechanic maintain your car is similar to having a physician that your trust with your healthcare. A good, reputable mechanic will identify potential problems before they get costly or cause permanent damage to the vehicle. If your vehicle is under warranty, you should have it serviced regularly to protect the coverage under the warranty.

Have a Schedule

Schedules are a part of modern life, and your vehicle maintenance should be added to your calendar. Your mechanic can help you keep track of the routine maintenance that is recommended in your owner’s manual. We also suggest that you put reminders in your phone or computer.

Tire Pressure

The pressure in your tires plays an important role in fuel efficiency and operation of your vehicle. Driving with tires that are over or underinflated makes your engine work harder to maintain speed. This results in lower fuel efficiency and “wear and tear” on the engine. Keeping the tires at the recommended pressure is also a safety consideration. If you are unsure about what pressure to have in the tires, check the outer sidewall of the tire. You will see an imprint of the recommended pressure.

Change the Fluids and Filters

Most vehicle owners know that the oil and oil filter in the vehicle need to be changed, but your car also relies on other types of fluid and filters to operate efficiently. The air filter is one of the most important filters in your automobile that should be checked as often as your check your oil. The air filter traps dirt and debris so that your engine has cleaner air for combustion. If the filter is clogged, your vehicle has to work harder to draw in air.

Cooling System

The combustion that occurs inside your engine produces a large amount of heat. The cooling system helps keep the engine within certain operating temperatures. You should check the coolant level and the cooling system hoses every few months. You also want to check for signs of leaks, such as radiator fluid in the engine compartment or on the ground under your vehicle after it is parked for a few hours or longer.

Gauges and Indicator Lights

Newer vehicles are equipped with advanced computer systems, gauges and indicator lights that tell you when there’s a problem with your vehicle. You should monitor your gauges for oil pressure, battery level, and other system checks. If your vehicle shows an indicator light, check the problem right away or take the vehicle to a qualified mechanic. If you are unsure what the indicator light means or what the normal ranges are for the gauges, check your owner’s manual or look it up online.

Take Care of the Inside and Outside

Washing and waxing your vehicle keeps the paint surface clean and can protect against damaged caused by the sun, rain and snow. The inside of your vehicle should be cleaned too so that the seats and carpet last for many years. If you live in a dusty area, we also recommend that you clean the vents and electronics inside the vehicle.

The heat of the southwest can ruin the interior and exterior of a car very quickly. We recommend that you park your vehicle in a garage or carport. You can also use a car cover. You can also have UV-filtering tint added to the windows. This helps keep you cool year-round and protects the interior from the damaging effects of the sun.

Having a well-maintained vehicle keeps the cost of ownership manageable and also makes you feel good about driving your car or truck. With some simple steps, you can enjoy years of driving and avoid costly repairs. Contact Dallas European Auto today to schedule your next maintenance appointment.

Depending on your driving style, the brakes on your car can either fail relatively quickly or last for many years. But you do not need to be the slowest drive on the road to make your brakes last. In fact, some small changes in how you drive will extend the lifetime of your brakes. If you try our suggestions but still go through brake pads and other components quickly, there may be a problem with your car. We recommend that you have the vehicle evaluated by a qualified mechanic. In addition to your driving style, several other factors may reduce the lifetime of your brakes, such as frequently traveling through mountains, having poor quality brake components or improper installation of the brakes.

Speed and Your Brakes

One of the quickest ways to wearing out your brakes is to routinely speed up your car and then apply the brakes hard. Your brakes have to manage 1/3 more energy when you stop from 65 MPH versus 55 MPH. The energy is changed into heat which is then absorbed by the brake components. Like other parts of your automobile, higher heat means more “wear and tear.”

Brake Fluid

Like oil, the brake fluid in your automobile should be changed according to the manufacturer recommendations. Your brake lines may also need to be flushed and bled. A qualified, experienced mechanic helps you keep track of when it’s time to replace your brake fluid as well as other brake components.

Choose the Right Replacement Parts

Brakes are very complicated, and price alone does not always translate into good performance. Expensive, high-use brake components may not last for economical drivers, and inexpensive brake parts may only mean that you replace your brakes more often than not. A professional mechanic helps you find the brake components that are right for your vehicle, budget and driving habits.

Inspect the Brakes

The brakes on your car should be inspected at least one time during the year. You can schedule the inspection at the same time as your tire rotation or oil change. The wheel should be removed to be able to examine all the relevant parts, so this is not a task for the everyday driver.

Avoid Downshifting

Downshifting is a common practice, and many people believe that doing so saves their brakes. Unfortunately, the practice actually stresses the transmission and clutch of your vehicle, both of which are far more costly than new brakes.

Coast Often

Coasting means that you are not applying the gas pedal or brake while allowing your vehicle to use existing momentum to move along the road. One of the best places to perform coasting is when you are going downhill. Another place to coast your vehicle before applying the brake is when you are exiting a highway on an off-ramp. Simply allow physics to take over and slow the vehicle gradually before you use the brakes. You should always maintain a safe distance from other vehicles and obey traffic signs, so coasting should be performed using good judgment as to when the brakes should be gently applied.

Look Ahead

When you look a little further ahead on the road, you can anticipate when stoplights are going to change; traffic is backing up and other situations that will require braking. You can coast a bit to slow down the vehicle before applying the brakes.

Keep It Light

Stopping a heavier vehicle places more stress on brake components when compared to a similar, lighter vehicle. Carrying large or heavy items in your trunk or the bed of your truck can add weight, as can larger wheels and tires. More weight on your vehicle also means lower gas mileage and “wear and tear” on other components, such as tires. Make it a habit to empty your trunk or bed of any unnecessary items, and consider the additional weight of upsizing your tires and wheels.

Only Use One Foot

Many people are surprised when we make this recommendation because the foot you use to apply the brakes may not seem like an issue. The problem with using your right foot for the gas pedal and your left foot for the brake pedal is that you are more likely to ride your brakes, meaning that you simultaneously apply the brake and accelerator. Using only your right foot also eliminates inadvertent taps on the brake pedal.

Know the Road

On your daily drives, you may notice that other drivers tend to slow down in certain places, such as just before a bend in the road. In these areas, use your knowledge of other driver habits combined with coasting. You can take your foot off the gas pedal and allow the vehicle to slow down on its own before applying the brakes. Again, good judgment should be used in these situations.

Use Your Own Judgment

People apply their brakes in traffic for many reasons, some necessary, some not. We all have an automatic reaction to apply our brakes when we see brake lights in front of us. If you notice that the car in front of you only momentarily lit the brake lights, wait a few seconds to see if you truly need to apply the brakes. In the meantime, simply let your car coast to lose some amount of speed.

Following our recommendations for taking care of your brakes will ensure that your brake components will last the expected lifetime. You may even notice that your fuel efficiency improves. For more information about brake tune-ups and maintenance, contact Dallas European Auto today to schedule an appointment.

Modern automobile paints are designed to be quite durable, but nature will still take a toll on your paint job. Fading and cracking are the result of exposure to the elements that cannot be avoided unless you keep your vehicle in a garage year-round. But exposure to the elements is only one way that your paint is damaged. Many other situations can degrade the paint on your automobile.

Bird Droppings and Eggs

The natural chemicals in bird droppings and eggs erode paint and may even penetrate all the way through to the actual car body. You should wash off any bird droppings and eggs from your vehicle as soon as you notice it.

Rocks and Stones

You may expect to have rocks and stones hit your vehicle when you are on a dirt road or following behind a construction truck, but this type of damage can happen anywhere. We have spoken with customers who were alone on paved roads when their vehicles were struck by rocks. The small chips may not be cosmetically significant, but they do allow corrosive substances to reach the body of your vehicle.

Shaving Cream and Shoe Polish

Writing messages on vehicles for newlyweds, recent college graduates, and new loves is a great way to share your celebration with the world. Unfortunately, the shaving cream and shoe polish that are most often used for writing on vehicles can damage the paint. If you use these items on your vehicle, make sure that the messages are only written on the windows and not on the paint. Also, if you use shaving cream, do not use an excessive amount that may run onto the paint. These items should not be used on rainy or snowy days because the shaving cream and shoe polish can run down onto the paint. Both shoe polish and shaving cream are very difficult to remove from the paint on your vehicle, and the damage may be permanent.

Sharp and Metal Objects

Sharp objects, keys, and even metal fasteners on your clothes can scratch your automobile paint. If you have any metal accents on your clothes, be careful not to lean or sit on your vehicle. When using tools, cover the paint with a towel or shop cloth. One of the most common areas that gets scratched by keys is around the lock. When you want to unlock your door or trunk at night, use a flashlight to help you find where to insert the key.

Construction Areas

The heavy equipment used in construction areas can throw rocks and other debris toward your car. Another concern is wet cement somehow finding its way onto your paint job. If the concrete hardens, you will have to scrape it off, and some of the paint may be removed in the process. We recommend that you avoid parking near construction areas.

Changes in Temperature

Like other materials, the paint on your automobile expands and contracts in response to changes in ambient and outdoor temperatures. Tiny cracks develop in the paint that are not only a cosmetic concern but also allow chemicals, moisture, salt and other substances to penetrate the protective coating on your vehicle. While you may not be able to control the changes in temperature, you can regularly wash your vehicle to remove any substances from the tiny cracks in the paint. This helps prevent rust and other types of deterioration in the paint.

Brake Fluid and Gasoline

Brake fluid, gasoline and other types of fluids that are necessary for keeping your vehicle in tip-top shape can actually damage the paint. If you are refilling the fluids, place a cloth over the painted part of the body where you are working. Also, when you fill up for gas, carefully clean the paint under and around the gas cap. It is very common for a few drops of gasoline to fall onto these areas when you fill your tank.

Low Quality and Abrasive Cleaners

Many car owners wash their vehicles at home with common dish detergent or soap that leaves behind a film. Many lower quality car soaps contain abrasive ingredients that will make very small surface scratches in your paint. You should always use a high-quality car soap that does not contain any type of abrasives.

Low Quality and Dirty Cleaning Clothes

Microfiber cloths are very popular amongst car owners, but you should only choose high-quality cloths. Also, only use clean cloths because any dust or debris in the cloth may scratch your paint.

Moisture

Water that accumulates on your vehicle, whether from washing or rain, can damage the paint if it is allowed to sit for a period of time, especially in high humidity areas. The water may also leave behind spots that are very difficult to remove.

By following these simple steps, you can extend the lifetime of your vehicle’s paint job. For more information on vehicle maintenance or custom paint, call Dallas European Auto today to schedule your appointment.