Graham Auto Repair

Understanding the Different Types of Vehicle A/C Systems & Machines Keeping your vehicle cool during the hot summer months is essential for comfort and safety. But did you know that different vehicles use different types of A/C machines? At Graham Auto Repair we service both older and newer vehicles. We want to help you understand the differences between the two main types of vehicle A/C systems and machines: R-134a and R-1234yf. A/C machines are specialized equipment we use to service your vehicle’s air conditioning system. They recover, recycle, and recharge refrigerant, which is also known as Freon. This is done to ensure your A/C system works efficiently and effectively. We have two different machines at Graham Auto Repair: the Robinair 34788NI which handles the R-134a refrigerant specifically; and our Snap-on Machine, which can handle both systems. R-134a A/C Vehicle Systems: R-134a refrigerant has been the standar ... read more

Why You Should Never Skip a Pre-Purchase Vehicle Inspection Are you thinking about buying a used car? Before you make that investment, a pre-purchase vehicle inspection (PPI) can be incredibly helpful! By knowing the current health of the vehicle in advance, you can avoid potential headaches and costly repairs down the road. At Graham Auto Repair we can complete a comprehensive pre-purchase inspection and provide you with the knowledge you need to make a wise investment. Let’s get down to the details about why we believe a PPI is an essential step in your car-buying process! Check out this short video showcasing our vehicle inspections at Graham Auto Repair! 1. Uncover Hidden Issues: A PPI helps identify any underlying problems or concerns that may not be visible during a simple test drive. From engine concerns and fluid leaks, to brake or tire wear. Knowing the condition of the vehicle helps you avoid unexpected repairs, and consider if you ar ... read more

Why doesn't my car's A/C blow cold air? Are you experiencing a hot car, even with the A/C running? Multiple things may contribute to this concern. Here are some common reasons that may explain why your A/C is blowing warm air: Low Refrigerant Levels: This is the most common cause. Without enough refrigerant your A/C can't cool the air effectively. Malfunctioning Compressor: The compressor is essential for circulating refrigerant. If it's not working, your A/C won't cool properly. Clogged Condenser: The condenser needs to dissipate heat. If it's clogged, the system can't cool the refrigerant effectively. Electrical Issues: Faulty wiring, blown fuses, or problems with the A/C control module can prevent the system from functioning. When you have A/C concerns it's essential to start with a comprehensive diagnostic to pinpoint the ... read more

Comprehensive Vehicle Inspections at Graham Auto Repair: Ensuring Your Safety on the Road At Graham Auto Repair, we prioritize your safety by offering thorough vehicle inspections which are performed by our skilled technicians. We offer routine vehicle check-ups, pre-purchase inspections, brake inspections, and detailed diagnostic inspections. With all of these services, our team will partner with you to keep your vehicle performing at its best! Let’s discuss the reason behind inspections, and the different inspections that we offer at both of our locations. Regular vehicle inspections are important to maintain your car's safety and performance. They help you identify any potential concerns before your vehicle breaks down. Is it time to complete a regular maintenance service? Does your vehicle have a fluid leak or worn-out parts? Is it time to replace your brake pads or resurface your rotors? All of these things can be identified and scheduled during an insp ... read more

At Graham Auto Repair, we prioritize your safety on the road. One crucial aspect of vehicle safety is ensuring your brake pads are in good condition. Today, we want to show you the difference between worn-out and new brake pads and explain why it's important that you replace them, and that you don't wait too long. Imagine you're driving and you need to stop your car. A lot happens when you press the brake pedal, in order for your vehicle to slow down and stop safely. One of the most crucial parts in this process is the brake pads. Brake pads are small, flat pieces made of tough material like metal and ceramic. They are part of your vehicle's braking system and are found inside the brake calipers, which are located near the wheels. The part of the brake pad that touches the rotor is covered with a material called "friction material." This material is designed to create the friction that's needed to stop your car. Over time, the constant pressing ... read more

What is Rotor Resurfacing? At Graham Auto Repair, we believe in keeping our customers informed about vehicle maintenance. Understanding what maintenance is needed and when is essential. We want to ensure that your vehicle doesn't breakdown, which can be more expensive and time consuming to repair. One common service we offer is rotor resurfacing. If you're wondering what rotor resurfacing is and if it's an option for your vehicle, this blog is for you. Rotor resurfacing is also known as rotor turning or machining. It is a process that smooths out the surface of your brake rotors. Why is this needed? Rotors are constantly under friction and heat that's created when you brake. Over time they can develop grooves, uneven wear, and other imperfections. Resurfacing will remove the imperfections and restore a smooth and even surface. Which is great, because it improves your braking performance! But it also extends ... read more

5 Signs of Low Transmission Fluid: What Every Driver Should Know Curious about the health of your car's transmission? Understanding the signs of low transmission fluid is crucial for maintaining your vehicle's performance. By keeping up-to-date with vehicle maintenance you can help prevent costly repairs down the road. Let's dive into the telltale indicators that your transmission fluid might be running low. Here are a few signs that your transmission fluid may be low, or may need to be replaced. 1. Delayed or Rough Shifting: Difficulty shifting gears smoothly, such as a noticeable hesitation or jerkiness when accelerating or decelerating. 2. Transmission Slipping: ... read more

Understanding the Importance of Transmission Fluid Maintenance In Your Vehicle Today, we're diving into an essential aspect of vehicle maintenance that often goes overlooked: transmission fluid. Many of us wait until something goes wrong with our cars before scheduling maintenance appointments. But understanding the significance of transmission fluid and regular servicing can save us from costly repairs down the road. Transmission fluid is a crucial component of automatic transmissions. It serves multiple functions, including lubricating moving parts, cooling the transmission, and maintaining hydraulic pressure. Essentially, it's the lifeblood of your transmission system. Here are a few reasons why it's important to complete regular maintenance of your Transmission Fluid: 1. Optimal Performance: Fresh transmission fluid ensures smooth gear shifts and overall performance of your vehicle. 2. Prevents Damage: Regular serv ... read more

Maximizing Fleet Efficiency: The Cooling System In today's competitive business environment, maximizing fleet efficiency and minimizing downtime are crucial for success. Regular cooling system services plays a vital role in achieving these goals. Here's why regular cooling system services are essential for your fleet:1. Prevents costly breakdowns: Overheating, corrosion, and other cooling system issues can lead to expensive repairs and unexpected vehicle downtime. 2. Ensures optimal performance: A well-maintained cooling system optimizes engine performance. This can lead to improved fuel efficiency and reduced operating costs. 3. Extends the lifespan of your fleet: Regular service not only prevents breakdowns but also extends the lifespan of your vehicles. This can greatly reduce your overall replacement costs. By investing in regular cooling system services for your fleet, you can sig ... read more

Have you ever wondered about the importance of your vehicle's cooling system? Understanding it's role is essential for maintaining optimal engine performance. With proper coolant, and regular cooling system services, you can prevent expensive repairs. Join us as we explore the significance of coolant and how it protects your vehicle. Yes, the words antifreeze and coolant can be used to describe the same fluid. Coolant is a vital fluid in your vehicle's engine. It helps regulate the engine's temperature, ensuring it doesn't get too hot or too cold. This is important because an engine that is too hot can overheat and cause damage. In addition, an engine that's too cold can freeze up and stop working. Essentially, coolant keeps your engine running smoothly in any weather conditions. Let's discuss why coolant is essential for your vehicle. When your engine runs, it is generating a lot of heat! The cooling system, which includes the radiator and the wat ... read more