Fort Collins and Longmont Auto Repair

Locations

WE NOW HAVE 5 LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU!

Fort Collins - Webster
Fort Collins - Riverside
Longmont - 20th Ave
Loveland - N. Garfield Ave
Loveland - Topaz Drive

Articles:

Tire Pressure - How To Measure & Why ITs Important

Tire Pressure - How To Measure & Why ITs Important

Maintaining proper tire pressure is essential for the safety and performance of your vehicle - incorrect tire pressure can adversely affect your car's handling, fuel efficiency, and tire lifespan.  Do you want to learn more about tire pressure? If so, continue reading to find out how to check your tire pressure, why it's important, and what happens when you neglect it. Let's start with what you need and how to properly measure the pressure: Tire pressure gauge Portable air compressor Check What The Recommended Pressure Is Consult your vehicle's owner's manual or the sticker on the driver's side door frame for the manufacturer's recommended tire pressure specific to your vehicle. Test The Current Pressure Of The Tire Park your vehicle on a level surface, remove the valve cap from one tire, and firmly press the tire pressure gauge onto the valve stem. Take note of the reading. Repeat this process for all four tires ... read more

5 Signs Of A Malfunctioning Cooling System

5 Signs Of A Malfunctioning Cooling System

The thing that keeps your engine from overheating or even blowing up is the cooling system. It's a closed loop with liquid that goes through your engine block and transfers the heat toward the cooler. Now that you know how important this system is, we will give you five warning signs to look out for. Overheating Engines overheat if not cooled sufficiently. This results in a whole lot of other problems down the road, including the engine blowing up. This mainly happens when coolant is low or completely gone. You can spot this problem with the engine temperature markers. A/C Problems Your A/C is connected to the cooling system because it heats the air with its help. When coolant is leaking or evaporating, this process becomes slower and can completely stop. Make sure to visit a repair shop if you notice any problems with your AC - it might save you money in the long run. Check Engine Light Is On The check engine light is your b ... read more

4 Of The Most Reliable European Vehicles

4 Of The Most Reliable European Vehicles

European vehicles are known for their style, performance, and reliability. Here, we'll take a look at four of the most reliable European vehicles available today. Keep in mind that only models are given, without a model year or trim. Every model and trim has a variety of options to choose from depending on your budget, liking and preferences.  Volkswagen Golf - The Volkswagen Golf has been a popular choice among European car buyers for decades, and for good reason. The car is well-made, comfortable to drive, and offers a range of reliable and efficient engines. With a spacious interior, high-quality materials, and a comfortable ride, the Golf is a great choice for those looking for a dependable car. Audi A4 - The Audi A4 is a luxury car that offers a smooth, quiet ride, and excellent handling. With a range of engines to choose from, including petrol, diesel, and hybrid options, there's an A4 for every driver's needs. The car's interior is well-made and packed wit ... read more

What Does an Oil Filter Do?

What Does an Oil Filter Do?

There’s more to an oil change than replacing the oil itself. At most auto service shops, they will inspect other aspects under the hood to ensure everything works. Another aspect of an oil service is the oil filter. The oil filter is a little cylinder component that can do wonders on keeping your motor clean. Read on to learn more about the oil filter and what it does. Oil Filter Basics Your engine has many components that all require lubrication from motor oil. Engine oil improves efficiency and reduces wear and tear on those components, allowing more power production. Before oil flows through the engine, it needs to be filtered through the oil filter. The oil running through the engine can only be effective for so long until it gets dirty. As motor oil flows in and out, it can pick up dirt, metal fragments, and other contaminants. To keep the nasty stuff out of the engine, the oil is kept clean with the oil filter. It traps these harmful particles, so your oil can last long ... read more

Winter Driving Tips for Driving in Snow and Ice

Winter Driving Tips for Driving in Snow and Ice

The most important elements of safe winter driving are being prepared, staying in control and staying alert. This winter, follow these three tips to remain safe on the road. Winterize your car. Winterizing your vehicle includes an oil change, fluid check, tire swap and general maintenance. You want to ensure that your fluids are full, including your gas tank. It is important to keep your gas tank at least half full during the winter to prevent freeze ups. Avoid being stranded with a flat tire by having your tires filled and rotated or, ideally, by putting winter tires on. Winter tires will give you the best traction when driving in winter conditions. Lastly, have general maintenance performed. This includes a check up of the battery, belts, hoses, radiator, lights, brakes, heater and defrost system and wipers. Drive for the weather. One of the most important things you can do while driving in the winter is to watch your speed and drive for the weather. When you are headed out the ... read more

How to Drive Your Christmas Tree Home Safely

How to Drive Your Christmas Tree Home Safely

More than half of Americans prefer a real tree over a fake one for Christmas. However, one of the biggest challenges of getting a real tree is having to transport it home. It can be a difficult task if you don’t have the tools and don’t have an idea of what you are doing. Fortunately, the team at BG Automotive is here to help with some tips to make your Christmas brighter. Below are some of our key tips for Christmas tree transport to keep you safe and your car free of damage.  Bring Items for the Job You will need a blanket, tarp, or sheet of some sort to provide a barrier between your car and the tree. You don’t want to lay the tree bare on your car roof or truck bed because its needles can scratch your vehicle and its sap can hurt your car paint. Next, you will need to bring a rope, bungee cord, or other forms of the durable strap. You will use those to wrap the tree onto the car securely. Last but not least, don’t forget to pack glo ... read more

What Are Signs of Low Brake Fluid

What Are Signs of Low Brake Fluid

Brake fluid is one of the most important fluids in your vehicle. It helps transfer the force from your foot on the pedal to the brakes. If your brake fluid is low, it can cause several problems with your braking system. The most common symptom of low brake fluid is a soft or spongy brake pedal. This can be caused by a leak in the system or air getting into the brake lines. Other symptoms include a grinding noise when you apply the brakes or the brakes not working as well as they should. If you notice any of these signs, it's important to have your car inspected by a mechanic as soon as possible. Low brake fluid can cause your brakes to fail, so it's not something to take lightly. What Are the Functions of the Brake Fluid 1. The brake fluid is responsible for transferring the force from your foot on the pedal to the brakes themselves. 2. The brake fluid also acts as a lubricant for the moving parts in the braking system. 3. The brake fluid helps to keep the brakes cool by dis ... read more

What Is The Difference Between the Serpentine Belt and Timing Belt?

What Is The Difference Between the Serpentine Belt and Timing Belt?

With hundreds and thousands of moving parts that make up an automobile, it can easily get lost when your mechanic throws some terms at you. A common problem that we’ve seen firsthand at BG Automotive is with the vehicle’s major belts. Many drivers get the timing belt and serpentine belt confused. Is there just one? Are they the same? We’re here to answer all the questions regarding the serpentine belt and timing belt.   First things first, the timing belt and serpentine belt are two entirely different components. The timing belt is located near the engine, and its purpose is to synchronize the crankshaft and camshaft(s). It has rubber ribbing that is equally spaced apart to time when the engine intake and exhaust valves to open and close. In contrast, the serpentine belt is a long snake-like belt that transports power to many accessories and sits outside of the engine. Some people call it the accessory belt.    The physical appearances of the two be ... read more

Is Your Car Summer-ized?

Is Your Car Summer-ized?

The summer months are all about having fun with family and friends, and we’re sure the last thing you’d want to think about is auto service and repairs. However, if you don’t want to hit any roadblocks this summer, we want to make sure that your car is safe and in good shape. Wherever you go this summer, please make sure you have done the following maintenance steps.  Monitor Your Tires Throughout the year, your tires lose and gain pressure on an everyday basis. As temperatures fluctuate throughout August and into the fall, please properly adjust your tire pressure to the recommended levels. Not only will it minimize the risks of tire accidents, but it will promote even tire wear. Make Sure Your A/C is Cool What is a good summer without air conditioning? You’ll need cold air blowing in your cabin to make sure you and your passengers are comfortable.  Test Lights Even with long summer days, you’ll want to have all your car exterior lights sh ... read more

What Does the Power Steering System Warning Light Mean?

What Does the Power Steering System Warning Light Mean?

The power steering system warning light is one of the many dashboard lights that can come on in your car. It's usually accompanied by a message on the dashboard display, telling you to check or service the power steering system. But what does this warning light mean, and what should you do if it comes on? The power steering system warning light comes on when there's a problem with the power steering system. This could be caused by a leak in the system, low fluid levels, or a failing pump. If you see this light, it's important to have the system checked by a mechanic as soon as possible. If the power steering system warning light comes on while you're driving, it's important to keep a few things in mind. First, don't panic. The power steering system is still working, but you may notice that it feels harder to turn the wheel. Second, avoid sudden movements or turns, and take extra care when driving in tight spaces. Finally, if possible, pull over and turn off th ... read more

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