Congratulations To Our Winners!

Every year we purchase a tree from the Festival of Trees. This year, we held a drawing to give away the items that came with the tree, and the tree. Congratulations to all of our winners!

read more "Congratulations To Our Winners!"

Top Six Vehicle Repairs And How To Prevent Them

Below are the top repairs that we see in our shop day after day. By doing a few simple things, you can help prevent these common repairs, and save you a trip to the repair shop:

1. Wiper Transmission or Linkage
   Especially in the Winter time, wiper transmission or linkage is one of the most common vehicle repairs. If you turn on your wipers while heavy snow is on them, it wears on your transmission. To prevent this, turn off your wipers every time you turn off your vehicle. Don't turn them back on until the snow is manually cleared off of your windshield.
2. Charging system
   If the battery is ever ran low, have it charged with a charger. Do not rely on the alternator to do the work. Have your battery tested with the change of seasons, and keep corrosion cleaned off of cables. Know your car and listen to the way it cranks. If there is anything abnormal, have it checked.
3. Fuel pump
   Keep the fuel filter changed at recommended intervals, and always keep your tank above ¼ full.
4. Cooling System
   Cooling system problems can be prevented by checking hoses and testing antifreeze every 3,000 miles. Keep your cooling system flushed at recommended intervals or when the ph changes, or if any signs of contamination is present. Antifreeze needs to be tested for freeze point, PH levels, and on some vehicles the level of nitrites.  Anti-freeze should also be changed at the proper mileage interval.  There are many different types of anti-freeze used according to your specific vehicle, so each vehicle has different mileage intervals.
5. Brakes
   We have many vehicles come in with brake issues.  Brakes are a normal item to wear out, but using them more often or harder than needed will cause them to wear out before they should.  Brake fluid needs to be monitored to make sure it is not wearing down and should be changed at the proper mileage interval.  Brake fluid collects moisture over time and can carry that moisture to the inside of brake parts, allowing them to rust and rupture seals.  When buying brake parts many people do not take into consideration the amount of heat these parts need to withstand.  The engineers of today’s vehicles spend many hours testing and designing every little part they put on cars.  Buying cheap parts that have the correct dimensions, but are built with different materials, is not a very good choice when it comes to brakes.
6. Steering and Suspension
   Steering and Suspension components are another area of vehicles that we commonly repair.  This is also an area that parts, over time, will wear out as a vehicle is driven.  One of the easiest ways to prolong the life of these parts is proper maintenance.  Many vehicle have grease points that need to be lubed every 3,000 miles; some vehicle do not.  All joints that are lubed on a vehicle's steering system do have boots over them to keep dirt and moisture out.  A properly maintained vehicle will have these inspected at every oil change; not many people realize this needs to be done.  Suspension components are designed to handle the weight of a vehicle and everything inside of it.  If a vehicle is carrying more weight than it was designed for, or continually has excess weight inside of it, the suspension will not last as long.  Driving over or through large bumps on a road faster than needed will also cause the suspension to break prematurely.  

If you ever have questions on what your regular intervals of maintenance are, we are happy to look it up for you. Stop by any time during regular business hours (Monday through Friday, 7:30am to 6:00pm), or call us at (801) 966-6021.

Do you have an auto repair question for us? We would love to answer it in our blog! Leave a comment on our Facebook page, or email us at contact@ginesautoservice.com. In the subject line, write "question for blog". 

read more "Top Six Vehicle Repairs And How To Prevent Them"

REGISTER NOW! Free Women's Auto Care Workshop

Gines Auto Service
4261 W 5415 S
Kearns, UT 84118
(801) 966-6021

Wednesday January 16th 2013
Thursday January 17th 2013 - FULL
6:30pm to 7:00pm - dinner
7:00pm to 9:00pm - workshop, including hands-on activities

(If you are not able to attend these dates, fill out your contact information and we will let you know when the next workshops are scheduled.)

The workshop is free, but you will need to register and reserve your spot in order to attend.

There are many ways to register:
(You only need to do one of these)

• Register online: Click on the date you would like to attend 
• Wednesday January 16th
• Thursday January 17th 
• Print out a flyer HERE, and fax it to (801) 679-4744, or bring it in to our office. We are located at 4261 W 5415 S in Kearns, UT. You can also scan and email it to michelle@ginesautoservice.com. 
• Pick up a flyer in our office and turn it into the service writers at the front desk.
• Call Michelle at (801) 968-1890 to register, or email michelle@ginesautoservice.com. 

To keep the workshops as relaxed and friendly as possible, each workshop will be limited to 35 participants. Our last workshop filled up fast, so register as soon as possible.

If you’re a woman who makes decisions about repairs on your vehicle, you know that knowledge is power. That’s why Gines Auto Service in Kearns, UT  is happy to announce the dates for their semi-annual FREE Women’s Auto Care Workshops, sponsored by ACDelco.

Learn about:

• The importance of regular maintenance
• How to recognize problems with your vehicle
• How to talk to your mechanic
• A question and answer session (so bring all the questions you may have!)
• On-hands vehicle instruction
• Why is maintenance important?
• Why do some people charge $12 for an oil change when others charge $25, and is there a difference?
• How do I know what type of tires I need for my specific vehicle? How do I tell the year tire was made so that I know I am not buying an old tire? How do I know the different quality types for tires?
• How to change a tire
• How to put air in a tire
• What is the most important thing I can do to keep my vehicle running a long time
• Any other subjects you would like to learn about, and much more, all in a friendly, relaxed atmosphere

Get ready for a different kind of “ladies’ night” — the Women’s Auto Care Workshop. Because knowledge really is power. Sponsored by ACDelco automotive parts.

SPECIAL NOTE:
Just to clarify, this is an auto CARE workshop, not an auto REPAIR workshop. For those that want to learn how to do their own repairs, we refer them to community classes such as Granite Peaks, or the Salt Lake Community College. The workshop we are holding is specifically for educating you on taking care of your vehicle, with topics such as those listed above.

DOOR PRIZES will also be given out!

Gines Auto Service is providing a night out and some excellent advice on vehicle maintenance for busy women. As part of the ACDelco "Knowledge Is Power" women's initiative, Gines Auto Service is offering free workshops. The workshop is designed to better acquaint women with vehicle maintenance needs and instill confidence in their ability to manage vehicle service needs.

read more "REGISTER NOW! Free Women's Auto Care Workshop"

The Story Behind This Year's Christmas Tree

Every year we purchase a tree from the Festival Of Trees to display in our office. This year we are going to give YOU a chance to win the tree and the items that came with it!

The Festival of Trees was inspired 42 years ago by a group of 15 women from along the Wasatch Front.  These women were challenged by Lewis M. Jones, Chairman of the hospital's Men's Endowment Board, to identify a way to raise funds for Primary Childrens' Hospital. Thousands of people join efforts by contributing countless hours and means to give “A Gift of Love" to children.  In 2011, the Festival raised $1,655,931.40 for children at Primary Children's Medical Center.

Most of the trees donated have a story behind the meaning of the tree. Here is the story that came with this year's tree:

By, The Hansen Familiy

This year I lost two great uncles. They both ran ranches, raised beautiful large families, and were true cowboys. Both ranches we would gather peacock feathers, ride horses, and see dragonflies often.

Homer Jones would be 103 years old this December. He was the brother to Lewis Jones (a past Primary Childrens' Hospital board member that originally started the Festival Of The Trees). Homer ran a ranch in southern Utah, and when he was ready to retire, he was kind enough to sell his shares of the ranch to my dad so we could keep the ranch in our family. On his 100th birthday, he told me that "he only golfs 9 holes instead of 18; other than that, it's not hard being 100 years old."

Blane Hickman was 98 when he died this summer. He ran a ranch on the border of Utah and Idaho. He grew up riding horses to school. Once, he hooked up a team of horses for his mom to go to Relief Society. The ladies were all dressed up to go to a church dinner. The horses got spooked and all the ladies ended up in the snow. When my grandma was faced with having to have assisted living, she begged for her brother Blaine because "He would get her out of this place!" He was a great brother too.

God bless the American Cowboy. My great uncles really were great!

Thank you to the Hansen Family for sharing these memories, and donating to the Festival Of Trees. We are honored to continue the memories of these two great men, and remember them this holiday season.  

read more "The Story Behind This Year's Christmas Tree"

ENTER TO WIN Our Christmas Tree and Other Items!

Every year we purchase a tree from the Festival Of Trees to display in our office. This year we are going to give YOU a chance to win the tree and the items that came with it!


The Festival of Trees was inspired 42 years ago by a group of 15 women from along the Wasatch Front.  These women were challenged by Lewis M. Jones, Chairman of the hospital's Men's Endowment Board, to identify a way to raise funds for Primary Childrens' Hospital. Thousands of people join efforts by contributing countless hours and means to give “A Gift of Love" to children.  In 2011, the Festival raised $1,655,931.40 for children at Primary Children's Medical Center.


Stop by our office during regular business hours and enter your name into the drawing. Winners will be announced on Wednesday, December 19th, and winners will have the 20th and 21st to pick up their items.

We are located at 4261 W 5415 S in Kearns.

Here are the different prize packs that we will be drawing winners for:

"Country Christmas" Tree

Tree skirt included

Cowboy pack:

Cowboy coffee

Horses calendar

George Strait CD

Elvis Presley country CD

Johnny Cash CD

Kitchen Pack:

Decorative bowl

2 bottles of sparkling cider

Horse picture frame

Candle holder

Jar of Hershey's Kisses

Decorative planter

Kitchen towel

Snuggly Pack

Decorative pillow

Soft throw blanket

Happy Holidays plaque

Microwavable cow hot pad pack

Country Christmas Pack:

Large horse plush animal

Country Christmas decorative stacked boxes

Horse shoe bookends

Toy pack:

My Little Pony toy

Cowboy magnets

Pig plush toy

Ornaments

Toy sleigh

Jar filled with snowflake ornaments and more cowboy magnets

Wreath Pack:

Large decorative wreath

Uncle Sam Santa decorative glass figurine

Red horse decorative glass figurine

American flag

Recipe box

3 packs of Christmas cards

2 white cowboy decorative glass figurines

Small decorative wreath

read more "ENTER TO WIN Our Christmas Tree and Other Items!"

Small Business Saturday

Today is Small Business Saturday. Make sure you support small, local businesses.
We are not open today, but will be open on Monday. Come and celebrate Small Business Saturday with us on Monday! 

New Economic Study Shows Local Businesses return 382% more to the SLC Economy than Chain Retailers. Spending just 10% more at local businesses would keep $487 million in the Utah economy each year.

10 Reasons To Shop Local, from Local First Utah:

1. You keep your money in our economy.  Three times more of your money, in fact. Studies show that for every dollar spent in a locally owned business, three times more of that dollar stays in our economy than would be the case with a national retailer.
2. You embrace the character of our community. We wouldn’t want our houses to look like everyone else’s. So why would we want our community to look that way?
3. You create local jobs. 
Local businesses are better than chains at creating more jobs per consumer dollars spent.
4. You help the environment. 
You conserved energy and resources in the form of less fuel for transportation and less packaging.
5. You benefit from our passion and expertise. You are our friends and neighbors and we have a vested interest in knowing how to serve you. We’re passionate and knowledgeable, why not take advantage of it?
6. You keep your tax dollars here. Shopping locally means less corporate infrastructure, and more tax money left available to enhance our community. Also, your spending locally instead of online ensures that your tax dollars are reinvested where they belong- right here in our community!
7. You encourage innovation and product diversity. Whether brick and mortar retail or local online, service providers or manufacturing, local business innovators ensure marketplace diversity. A wider array of choices keeps prices lower over the long term
8. You love your neighbors. 
We know you and you know us. Studies show that local businesses donate to community causes at twice the rate of chains.
9. You keep the American Dream alive. You nurtured entrepreneurship, which is the foundation of our American economy.
10. You make us a destination. 
The more interesting and unique we are as a community, the more we will attract new neighbors and visitors. This benefits everyone!

read more "Small Business Saturday"

2013 Calendars Are Here!

Our 2013 calendars are here, and you can pick them up for FREE at our shop! Stop by during regular business hours, and choose from Beautiful America, Horses, or American West. 

They go fast, so stop by and grab one before they are gone! 

Don't forget that we also have our FREE candle promotion with every oil change!

read more "2013 Calendars Are Here!"

Thanksgiving Road Trip Checklist

♫ "Over the river and through the woods..." ♫

Many of you are leaving on road trips this week. There are a few things you can do before leaving that just take a minute, but will increase your chances of arriving at your destination without any problems.Plan your route and leave a copy of your itinerary with a relative or neighbor.

We are always happy to do a FREE courtesy check of your vehicle for you. Stop by our shop in Kearns at 4261 W 5415 S (84118). You can also call us any time with questions (801) 966-6021.

Remember, if you are in need of roadside assistance, our 2012 customers receive FREE roadside assistance through ACDelco! More details HERE.

Check the following systems on your vehicle:

• Belts, hoses, brakes, lights, engine oil, and coolant. Watch a video about how to check your oil.
• Tire pressure, including the spare. Watch a video about how to check your tire pressure.    Watch a video about importance of properly inflated tires
• Windshield wiper fluid and wiper blade. Watch a video about how to check your windshield washer fluid.
• Have any repairs or vehicle maintenance performed before the trip—see your vehicle's owner's manual for vehicle maintenance schedules.

List of items to have in your vehicle for your road trip:

• Jack, lug wrench, and other tools needed to change a tire.  Watch a video on Quick Tips for changing a tire.
• A working flashlight with extra batteries
• Emergency reflectors
• Sunglasses
• First aid-kit
• Driver's license, vehicle registration and auto and medical insurance cards
• A spare set of vehicle keys. Nothing is worse than locking your keys in your vehicle far from home! Keep the spare set of keys on a designated person at all times!
• A cellular phone or a sign that tells passersby to “Call Police” in case of trouble
• Winter Emergency Kit: View our list of items to keep in your vehicle in case of emergency during the winter months. 

10 Ways You Can Save Gas:

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) suggests the following tips to help conserve gas.

1. Go the speed limit. Use cruise control.
   While each vehicle reaches its optimal fuel economy at a different speed (or range of speeds), gas mileage usually decreases rapidly at speeds above 60 mph. You can assume that each 5 mph you drive over 60 mph is like paying an additional $0.24 per gallon for gas. Observing the speed limit is also safer. NOTE: When driving on wet or icy roads, do NOT use your cruise control! 
2. Drive Sensibly.
   Aggressive driving (speeding, rapid acceleration and braking) wastes gas. It can lower your gas mileage by 33 percent at highway speeds and by 5 percent around town. Sensible driving is also safer for you and others, so you may save more than gas money.
3. Avoid idling and rush-hour traffic.
   Idling gets 0 miles per gallon. Cars with larger engines typically waste more gas at idle than do cars with smaller engines.
4. Keep your engine properly tuned.
   Fixing a car that is noticeably out of tune or has failed an emissions test can improve its gas mileage by an average of 4 percent, though results vary based on the kind of repair and how well it is done. Fixing a serious maintenance problem, such as a faulty oxygen sensor, can improve your mileage by as much as 40 percent. Find an independent service center near you that sells quality ACDelco parts and can check to see if your engine is properly tuned.
5. Remove junk from the trunk.
   Added weight in your vehicle affects fuel economy, so take unnecessary items out of your trunk. An extra 100 pounds in your vehicle could reduce your MPG by up to 2 percent. The reduction is based on the percentage of extra weight relative to the vehicle's weight and affects smaller vehicles more than larger ones.
6. Commute to work.
   Stagger your work hours to avoid peak rush hours. Drive your most fuel-efficient vehicle. Consider telecommuting (working from home) if your employer permits it. Take advantage of car pools and ride-share programs. You can cut your weekly fuel costs in half and save wear on your car if you take turns driving with other commuters. Many urban areas allow vehicles with multiple passengers to use High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) lanes, which are typically less congested, further improving your fuel economy.
7. Combine trips.
   Combining errands into one trip saves you time and money. Several short trips taken from a cold start can use twice as much fuel as a longer multipurpose trip covering the same distance when the engine is warm. Trip planning ensures that traveling is done when the engine is warmed up and efficient, and it can reduce the distance you travel.
8. Use the recommended grade of motor oil.
   You can improve your gas mileage by 1-2 percent by using the manufacturer's recommended grade of motor oil. For example, using 10W-30 motor oil in an engine designed to use 5W-30 can lower your gas mileage by 1-2 percent. Using 5W-30 in an engine designed for 5W-20 can lower your gas mileage by 1-1.5 percent. Also, look for motor oil that says "Energy Conserving" on the API performance symbol to be sure it contains friction-reducing additives.
9. Keep tires properly inflated.
   You can improve your gas mileage by around 3.3 percent by keeping your tires inflated to the proper pressure. Under-inflated tires can lower gas mileage by 0.3 percent for every 1 psi drop in pressure of all 4 tires. Properly inflated tires are safer and last longer.
10. Avoid rooftop carriers.
    A roof rack or carrier provides additional cargo space and may allow you to meet your needs with a smaller car. However, a loaded roof rack can decrease your fuel economy by 5 percent. Reduce aerodynamic drag and improve your fuel economy by placing items inside the trunk whenever possible. Avoid carrying unneeded items, especially heavy ones. An extra 100 lbs in the trunk reduces a typical car's fuel economy by 1-2 percent.

FUN FACTS About Thanksgiving:

• Massassoit, friend to the pilgrims, is on display as a statue at the East entrance of the Utah State Capitol.
• The Pilgrim leader, Governor William Bradford, had organized the first Thanksgiving feast in 1621. He invited the neighboring Wampanoag Indians to the feast.
• The first Thanksgiving celebration lasted three days.
• Mashed potatoes, pumpkin pies, popcorn, milk, corn on the cob, and cranberries were not foods present on the first Thanksgiving's feast table.
• Lobster, rabbit, chicken, fish, squashes, beans, chestnuts, hickory nuts, onions, leeks, dried fruits, maple syrup and honey, radishes, cabbage, carrots, eggs, and goat cheese are thought to have made up the first Thanksgiving feast.
• The pilgrims didn't use forks; they ate with spoons, knives, and their fingers.
• The annual Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade tradition began in the 1920's.
• Turkey has more protein than chicken or beef.

read more "Thanksgiving Road Trip Checklist"

2012 Kearns Business Of The Year

Gary accepting the award for
Kearns Business Of The Year 2012

A few weeks ago, Gines Auto Service was awarded the 2012 Kearns Business Of The Year by ChamberWest. 

Thank you so much for this honor!  You can view our award hanging up in our office. We were also mentioned in the Taylorsville/Kearns Journal for receiving this award.

read more "2012 Kearns Business Of The Year"

Scented Candles With Each Oil Change!

Each customer that comes in for an oil change
now through the end of the year (while supplies last)
will receive a gift bag complete with
3 candles, and 1 candle holder

Our annual oil change promotion has begun! We usually wait until after Thanksgiving, but our candle shipment came in yesterday, and we are excited to start handing them out!

From now until the end of the year (while supplies last), receive a scented candle and holder with each oil change!

Choose from the following scents:

• Apple Cinnamon
• Orange Citrus
• Lemon Meringue
• Blueberry Pie
• Cinnamon Bun
• Vanilla

read more "Scented Candles With Each Oil Change!"

TIRES: Are Yours Ready For Winter?!

Worn out tires is one of the biggest causes of wrecks
and sliding when driving in snowy weather!

As of today, the cold and snowy Utah weather has officially begun! Are your tires good enough to get you to your destination safely? Tires are one of the most important parts on your vehicle that you need to maintain and make sure they are in good condition. Having a blowout on the freeway, or not being able to get into your neighborhood after a snowstorm because your tires are bald is very inconvenient. By keeping an eye on your tires and the condition they are in, you can eliminate a lot of headache on your part.

WE SELL TIRES!
Many people do not know that we sell all makes of tires! Come in for your FREE tire check to make sure you are ready for safe Winter driving!

FREE TIRE CHECKS! 
Stop by our shop in Kearns any time Monday through Friday 8am to 6pm for your FREE tire check! We are located at 4261 W 5415 South, 84118.

How do I know which tire to buy?!

Always check your owners manual to see what kind of tires you need for your specific vehicle. You can NOT just go by price! Remember, you get what you pay for!  If you can't find the information, ask us and we can look it up for you. At our recent FREE Women's Auto Care Workshop: Knowledge Is Power, we handed out information sheets on Load Index, Speed Rating, and Tire Size. You need to take all of these into consideration when purchasing tires. Know the right kind of tires for your specific vehicle! As always, if you ever have any questions on your tire size, just ask us! We would be glad to go over it with you and explain it to you.

Here are a few different things to know about the specific features your vehicle may have:

• Front Wheel Drive and Rear Wheel Drive: Vehicles with front wheel drive seem to do better in the snow. This is because the front tires are the tires that turn, grasping onto the surface and pulling your vehicle. Rear wheel drive works with the tires as the ones that are turning, pushing your vehicle, and in the snow this can cause you to slide more easily. If you have a vehicle with rear wheel drive, you may want to add some weight in the back for traction. Many people will add sandbags to their trunk to get that extra weight.
• Four Wheel Drive: Four wheel drive is when all four wheels are turning to make the car go. 
• All Wheel Drive: All wheel drive is also when all four wheels turn to make the car go. The difference between the two is that with four wheel drive you have to manually lock in the four wheels to make them all turn; all wheel drive is where your vehicle detects that is it needed, and will lock and unlock the tires as needed in and out of four wheel drive.
• Anti-lock Brakes: With ABS (or anti lock brakes), the computer watches the same sensors as Traction Control. When it monitors a wheel skidding then it will release the brake pressure from that wheel and when it starts moving again then it reapplies the brake to the wheel again, over and over again until you come to a stop. (This is the same way you were taught driving on a slick road but a whole lot faster.)
• Traction Control: On Traction control there are many different ways to control the wheel spin. The computer can detect when a wheel slips with the Antilock Brake Sensors on the wheels. The computer then either upshifts the transmission, applies brake to the wheel spinning, or can even retard timing to take power away from engine. We were also taught in the old cars that if you are stuck and one wheel is spinning, then slowly apply the park brake to stop that wheel and both wheels will start spinning and possibly get you unstuck. This is the same principle.
• Stability Control: Another neat feature on cars today is Stability Control. Stability control has a sensor that is called a yaw sensor. It is the same thing that is used in fighter jets. It measures the G force and how much steering. For example, if you are turning left and the rear end is spinning around to the right (too sharp of a turn), the computer will start applying the right front brake to stop the rear from spinning around. This same principle that has been used on tractors and dune buggies. If you are turning left and the front wheels keep pushing straight ahead and not turning, the computer will start pulsing the left rear brake and it will help bring the front end around.

What are the different types of tires for Winter driving?

• All season tires: Most people can get by with standard all-season tires. As long as the tread is not worn out, you should be okay with all season tires.
• Studded snow tires:  If you are in need of extra traction for severe mandatory have to drive in all storms then we still have Studded Snow tires that are the Greatest! If you find yourself driving in harsh snow conditions frequently, you might want to invest in studded snow tires. 

How does the tread on tires work to help me drive better in the snow?

The traction on your tires is what helps you to stop faster on wet and slick roads. If your tires are worn, and the traction is mostly gone, your stopping distance will be greater, and may cause an unnecessary collision. The channels and grooves in the tire tread is where the water and snow goes in and helps prevent hydroplaning.

Tips:

• Make sure your tires are properly inflated at all times. Watch this video HERE on how to check your tire pressure.
• To tell if your tread is worn, you can use the penny or quarter trick. Put a penny or quarter head first into your tire tread. If you can still see the top of Lincoln's head, you need new tires. 

Determining The AGE Of A Tire

When purchasing a tire, you are going to want to know when that tire was made. Buying tires that are too old can cause you problems such as blowouts and flats. We also handed out an information sheet on Determing The Age Of A Tire at our Women's Auto Care Workshop that will help explain how to determine how old the tire is. The date the tire was made is found in the U.S. D.O.T. Tire Identification Number. 

read more "TIRES: Are Yours Ready For Winter?!"

Kearns Veterans Memorial Plaza

Kearns Community Council invites you to join us for the dedication of the new resting place for the Kearns Cannon and Flag Pole.

Military Camp Kearns picture
courtesy Pam Todd, Kearns Historical Society

The new place will be named Kearns Veterans Memorial Plaza so that we may continue to honor our Military Camp Kearns Heritage along with our veterans, past, present, and future.
Saturday November 10, 2012 11:00 AM
Location:  Kearns Recreation Center South Front Lawn 5670 South 4800 West (Cougar Lane)
Contact Person Paula Larsen Kearns Community Council Member, Vice-Chairman 801-963-9150 Email     robertandpaula90@msn.com

read more "Kearns Veterans Memorial Plaza"

7 Ways To Avoid Breakdowns and Getting Stranded

Breaking down and getting stranded can ruin your day. Follow these few tips to decrease your chances of being broken down on the side of the road and having to call a tow truck.

(REMINDER: If you DO need roadside assistance, or need to have your vehicle towed, our 2012 customers receive FREE roadside assistance! Read more about that HERE.)

Know which lights come on before
starting your vehicle.

1. Notice what lights come on when you start your vehicle - When you start your vehicle, the lights on your dashboard turn on in "test mode". This is a system's test to let you know that your vehicle systems are working. Know which lights are normal for your vehicle, but the main ones are battery, ABS, temperature, and oil. For example, if you turn your key on, and your battery light doesn't come on, it could indicate a problem with your alternator, causing your battery to go dead. Yes, your vehicle will still run, but chances are you are going to end up stranded. Have it looked at before this happens! Another common light is the TPM (Tire Pressure Monitoring) light. This light is standard in 2007 and newer cars, passenger and light duty trucks. This light will tell you if your tire pressure is low.
2. Know where "normal" is on your gauges - Make sure you watch the gauges on your dashboard, and know where they normally run. If they are running lower or higher than normal, this can indicate a problem. These gauges are there to warn you of an upcoming issue, and if you get it looked at and fixed before it breaks, it can prevent that inconvenient breakdown on the side of the road.
3. Keep up on your maintenance - Having your routine maintenance done by a professional every 3 months or as recommended by your owners manual is always a good idea. Every vehicle that comes in our shop is  put through a FREE courtesy check, where the main items that can cause a breakdown are checked. We check the metal content and PH of your fluids.This is another benefit to having a professional do your oil changes instead of doing them yourself. They can pinpoint and spot potential problems before they arise.
4. Keep a half a tank of gas at all times - One of the most common reasons for getting stranded on the side of the road is running out of gas. Not only is this inconvenient, but it can cause problems with your fuel pump. You may think you have enough gas to get from A to B, but what if there is an accident on the road and you are stuck there longer than expected? We have heard many times, especially on freeways, where they has been a huge pileup accident, and many of the cars stuck in the traffic jam run out of gas.
5. Prepare your vehicle for the current season - If you keep up on your regularly scheduled vehicle maintenance, then your vehicle should have no problem when the seasons change; however, there are a few things you can check to get ready for winter:
   - Windshield wipers: Make sure they are in working condition, and that your motor isn't "on its last leg".
   - Tires: Make sure the tread on your tire isn't too thin, and rotate your tires regularly so that they wear evenly. If you live in a climate where there is a lot of snow, like Utah, you may want to think about snow tires or all-season tires.
   - Battery: Test your battery condition yearly.
6. Check your fluids routinely - It only takes a few minutes to check your oil, windshield wiper fluid, brake fluid, anti-freeze, and glance at the belts and hoses for fray or bulges. Running out of oil can cause your engine to seize, and running out of brake fluid will result in loss of brakes. By taking just a few minutes to check your levels, you can prevent those inconvenient breakdowns. If you need us to show you where your fluids are and how to check them, stop by any time during regular business hours and we will be happy to go over it with you. Watch videos on our YouTube channel on how to check your oil and how to check your windshield washer fluid.
7. Tires
   Flat tires and blowouts are another common reason for getting stranded on the side of the road. There are a few things you can do to prevent this:
   - Routinely check the tread on your tires. Using a nickel is the best way. If you can see Washinton's head, your tread is too thin, and you should purchase new tires. Watch a video on our YouTube channel on how to check your tread.
   - Check your tire pressure. Running on too low of tires is a common reason for blowouts. Watch a video on our YouTube channel on how to check your tire pressure.
   - Rotate your tires routinely. By rotating your tires, this allows them to wear evenly, avoiding the tread to become too low in one spot.
   - Know the age of your tires. Many blowouts, especially on boats and trailers, are caused by old tires that the rubber has gone bad. Know how to locate the age of your tire in the DOT number on the side of your tire. If you need help with this, stop by and we can show you.
   - Watch out for curbs. Scraping against and running into curbs can cause "bubbles" on your tire, which also leads to blowouts.

Gines Auto Services is always here to help if you ever have any questions! You can reach us:

• By phone: (801) 966-6021
• By email: contact@ginesautoservice.com
• In person: 4261 W 5415 S, Kearns, UT  84118
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read more "7 Ways To Avoid Breakdowns and Getting Stranded"

Why Is Changing Your Oil Important?

Oil buildup on an engine

The best piece of advice we can give on making your vehicle last longer is to keep up on the maintenance. We tell people that all the time, but WHY is it important?

Let's compare your engine to a bath tub. You fill your tub full of water, and take a bath. Instead of draining the tub and getting new water each time, you only add new water if needed over top of the old water. If you keep repeating this process, what happens to your bath tub? It gets a filthy, dirty ring and buildup on it, right?

It is the same thing with your engine and changing your oil. If you are only filling it up when it's low, and never completely draining and cleaning it routinely, your engine will get a sludgy buildup like the one in the video below.

Now let's talk about the type of water you put into your bath tub. If you are filling it with water that is not clean to begin with, or not appropriate for your bath tub material type, what happens to your tub? Even if drained routinely, it will still get that sludgy buildup. It's the same with your engine oil. If you are using a low quality brand of engine oil, or the wrong kind of engine oil for your specific vehicle type, it can still cause that buildup of sludge. That's why it's important to know what you are getting, and make sure you are using the right type of engine oil. If you are ever in doubt, consult your owners' manual, or ask us any time. A popular brand of engine oil used by cheaper lube shops is known to cause this sludgy buildup.

If you ever have questions on your maintenance, the type of oil for your vehicle, or anything else, you can always contact us:

• (801) 966-6021 or in person 4261 W 5415 S in Kearns
• Website
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• Twitter (@GinesService)
• Add us to your Google + circles!
• YouTube channel
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read more "Why Is Changing Your Oil Important?"

Keeping Tires Properly Inflated

A properly inflated tire will roll better than one that is not properly inflated.
Imagine the effect this has on your vehicle as you drive down the road.
Watch a short video below demonstrating this.

You've probably heard more than once that keeping your tires properly inflated can help prevent blowouts, increase the life of your tire, and increase your gas mileage.

HOW does keeping your tires properly inflated help with all of this?!

• When tires are inflated properly they are easier to roll and have less drag. When they are low on air the excessive drag causes heat. The heat and not having even weight distribution across the tread causes the tires to wear out faster than they should, and could cause the interior construction of the tire to come apart, which is known as a blowout.
• When the tire is low on pressure and becomes hard to roll it makes the engine work harder which burns more fuel than it should. 
• When a tire is low on pressure, it does not wear evenly on all sides, which decreases the life of your tire. 
• Watch the short demonstration in the video below on the difference between a properly inflated tire and a tire that is not properly inflated.

How do I know how much air my tire needs?

Many people will tell you to look on the inside of your driver's side door, but we always tell our customers to look directly on the tire. You will see a marking around the inside that says "Max Press." for maximum pressure. Watch a short video below on how to check your tire pressure.

We are always happy to show you how to check your tires, or do it for you. Stop by any time during regular business hours (Monday-Friday 7:30am to 6pm)! We are located at 4261 W 5415 S in Kearns, and can be reached at (801) 966-6021 or contact@ginesautoservice.com.

You can also find us on:

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read more "Keeping Tires Properly Inflated"

Fun Facts About Hybrid Vehicles

Toyota Prius

Did you know...
(information from hybridcars.com)

• The first plans for a hybrid were developed by priest and astronomer Ferdinand Verbiest some time between 1665 and 1825.
• An electric-powered taxicab was introduced in England in 1886, and the London Electric Cab Company began regular service using electric cars in 1897.
• Over 500 electric cars were built in 1897-1899.
• In 1900, American car companies built 1,681 steam cars, 1,575 electric cars, and 936 gasoline cars. 
• Read more fun facts on HybridCars.com.

Many of the manufacturers, including General Motors, were introducing hybrids on order in the 1980s-1990s. If the technology was around so early for electric cars, why did it take until 1997 for Toyota to introduce the first mass-produced hybrid, which is the Prius?

• Battery technology in the last 15-20 years is what's made it possible for hybrid cars to be on the market now. The batteries wouldn't last long enough. 
• Batteries take a long time to recharge, don't put out as much power as gasoline. For a long time, gasoline was cheap, but now that gas prices are going up, the federal government has put out incentives for car manufacturers to improve batteries and electric cars.
• Batteries still take a long time to charge, which is why you don't see many "full electric vehicles". You'll never get the power and convenience out of batteries as you do petroleum based fuels (gasoline, diesel, fossil fuels).
• On full electric vehicles, you can drive approximately 40-50 miles, then you have to plug it in and let it charge for approximately six hours.
• The Chevy Volt runs on electric for approximately 40-50 miles, then switches to gas and electric, and charges the battery while on gas. 

DON'T FORGET! We are now ACDC certified to work on and repair hybrid / electric vehicle cars!

We have spent the last year and a half getting all the training necessary to be the only independent repair shop along the Wasatch Front certified to work on and repair hybrid cars.

May 2011, Mark and Chad flew to California for a hybrid training class. Craig VanBattenberg from Massachusetts was the instructor, and did such a fabulous job teaching, that Mark invited him here to teach a training class on hybrids / electric vehicles.

May 2012, VanBattenberg's staff and our staff had worked for a month and a half calling auto repair shops from Ogden to Provo to invite them to the training, but the class ended up consisting of only Mark, Gary, Chad and Preston. 

June 2012, Chad flew to Massachusetts to attend a six day, advanced hybrid / electric vehicle training class, also taught by VanBattenberg. The first two days were in class training, and the third and fourth day were in a shop doing hands-on training. The fifth and sixth days were a mix of in-class and hands-on, reviewing and confirming what he had learned the previous days. The class had 16 people split up into groups of four. There were enough cars for every person in the class to work on one. The instructor had a variety of hybrid / electric vehicles to learn on, including two first generation Prius, two Second Generation Prius, two Ford Escape Hybrids, two Honda Insights, a Chevrolet Volt and a Honda Accord Hybrid. During the class, the instructor had each group make a short presentation for the rest of the class so that everyone had a chance to learn the same material. While in the shop it was basically learn whatever you wanted and the teacher had all his tools, scopes, and meters so that any questions that arose, we could figure them out.  Each group also had an ACDC employee with them to answer questions and help repair the vehicles. Every car was taken apart and put back together more than once. Chad's group took a Prius that would not even move and rebuilt the high voltage battery in it. After getting the car fixed, they tested it out to see what happens if there is a high voltage short to ground. They found out the cars are built very safe.

"After being in this class I feel very comfortable testing and repairing Hybrid and Electrical vehicles," Chad said. "They can be very dangerous to anyone that doesn’t know what they are doing if they remove the wrong protective cover or grab a part of the high voltage system without the proper protection."

FREE Hybrid / Electric Vehicle battery test!

Spread the word to your friends and family that own hybrid / electric vehicles that we will test their battery for free to make sure it's ready for Winter! You can visit us at Gines Auto Service in Kearns at 4261 W 5415 S. You can also connect with us on Facebook and Twitter.

read more "Fun Facts About Hybrid Vehicles"

Highway Safety Tips and FREE Roadside Assistance!

It's the last half of Summer, and everybody is trying to get in that last road trip / vacation before school starts. Here are some tips from us on how to stay safe on the highway getting to and from your destination, or just with every day driving:

Put the cell phone DOWN!
Texting and driving, and even distracted driving by cell phones, is becoming a big killer on the roads. It's not worth it.......if you have to text or talk, PLEASE pull over!

What To Do If I Get A Flat?

Before leaving, make sure your trunk has a jack, lug wrench and other tools you'll need to change a tire. When you get a flat tire, or have a blowout, the first thing you need to do is stay calm. Do not slam on your brakes! - this can cause you to lose control. Pull to the side of the road and out of traffic, and slowly bring your vehicle to a stop. DO NOT try to drive on a flat tire! This will cause damage to your rim, and can also cause you to lose control. Watch a video on tips when changing your tire on our  YouTube channel. We are always available if you want to learn how to change your tire with the jack designed for your specific vehicle; just come on in during regular business hours! You can also watch our blog for our next FREE Women's Auto Care Workshop, where we will teach you how to change your tire. Through ACDelco we are also offering FREE roadside assistance for all of our 2012 customers! Check out the details HERE.

What should I check before heading out on a road trip?

It is always a good idea to look your vehicle over before heading out on a road trip. Here are a few things you should look at:

• Tire pressure: Making sure you have adequate tire pressure can not only help prevent a blowout, but can also help you in your gas mileage. (Don't forget to check your spare tire as well!) Watch a short video on our YouTube channel how to check your tire pressure.
• Tire tread: Driving on bald tires is the main cause of flats and blowouts. Rotating your tires during your regularly scheduled maintenance helps your tires to wear evenly all the way around, and not just on one side. (Don't forget to check your spare tire as well!) Watch a short video on our YouTube channel on how to check to see if your tire tread is too low.
• Major fluids: Make sure to check your oil, windshield washer fluid, radiator fluid and ??. You can watch short videos on our YouTube channel on how to check your oil and windshield washer fluid. If you have any questions on how to check your fluids, stop by during regular business hours and we can help you with that. 
• Wiper Blades: Make sure your wiper blades are not old and worn out. Driving in a rainstorm with worn wiper blades will cause decreased visibility. 
• Lights: Make sure that your headlights, high beams, brake lights and turn signals are all in working order.
• Belts and Hoses: Make sure your belts and hoses don't have any visible cracks or kinks. 

Emergency Kit

Being prepared before an emergency happens is the best way to handle an emergency situation. Read through our list of suggested emergency kit essentials, and adjust the contents according to the current season. You can also find more road trip tips and other items to make sure you have with you on our Road Trip Tips post. 

FREE Roadside Assistance for all of our customers!

If you have been to our shop and have a work order dated any time from 2012, you can receive free roadside assistance (up to $75) through ACDelco. You MUST call the ACDelco number before contacting roadside assistance, so make sure to have that on hand! You can read all the details HERE.

A Few more reminders before leaving on a road trip:

• Make sure you have a working flashlight with extra batteries, emergency reflectors, sunglasses and a first aid-kit
• Take your driver's license, vehicle registration and auto and medical insurance cards
• Carry a spare set of vehicle keys
• Plan your route and leave a copy of your itinerary with a relative or neighbor
• Bring any special medications and prescription information
• Take your doctor's phone number
• Take your eyeglass prescription
• Bring a cellular phone or a sign that tells passersby to “Call Police” in case of trouble
• Have any repairs or vehicle maintenance performed before the trip—see your vehicle's owner's manual for vehicle maintenance schedules.

Connect with us:

• On Facebook (and right now we are giving away a family four-pack of tickets to Rocky Mountain Raceway!)
• Blog
• Website
• Follow us on Twitter
• View our YouTube channel

Gines Auto Service is located at 4261 So 5415 W in Kearns, UT. We just celebrated 50 years in business!

read more "Highway Safety Tips and FREE Roadside Assistance!"

HOW TO: Cook Cookies In Your Car

We are taking a break this week from our regular auto tips to bring you a very important piece of information. It breaks our hearts every time we hear of a child or a pet left in a hot vehicle, even if it's "just for a minute".

Summer is in full swing, and the temperatures are higher than in previous years.

Below is a video of how hot and how fast a car's temperature can go up. In fact, the temperatures get SO hot in a vehicle, that you can even bake cookies in your vehicle! The second video will show you how. It's a fun summer project you can do with your kids, while teaching them how hot a car can get.

Please please think twice and don't leave your children or pets in a hot car! Even a minute can turn into longer without realizing it.

read more "HOW TO: Cook Cookies In Your Car"

Difference In Oil Change Prices

Cheap quality oil filters vs good quality oil filters

Many times we hear "The shop down the street only charges ____ for oil changes; why do you charge what you charge?" We have a display in our office that shows you the quality of a good oil filter like the ones we use, versus the "cheap" ones like many other oil change shops use.

Why is it important to use a good quality oil filter that may cost more, compared to a cheap one that costs less?

When paying for an oil change, the old saying "You get what you pay for" applies. If you are paying less, it's most likely because the best filters are not being used. 

We recently received a letter from General Motors and ACDelco (READ IT HERE) about the importance of shops using good quality oil filters, not just the cheap ones to save the customers a quick buck. This is something we have known for years, thus being the reason why we only use good quality filters. Read the letter we received, proving yet again that the lowest cost isn't always the best! It may be doing you more harm than good!

A good quality oil filter will last, where a cheaper filter is less durable and can break. The oil filter's job is to remove oil contaminants. It sifts out the solid particles while allowing the oil to flow unrestricted through the engine. When the oil filter becomes "full" or "clogged", the oil and contaminants will flow around the filter. When bypassing occurs, contaminants head straight for the engine where they can eventually cause permanent engine damage. View the video below on the difference.

Don't be afraid to ask!
When it comes to your vehicle, never be afraid to ask your mechanic any question you may have. If your mechanic won't take the time to discuss your questions and concerns with you, then maybe that mechanic isn't worth your money. Knowledge is power, and the more you know, the better informed decisions you can make when it comes to what is best for making your vehicle last.

Come and see the difference

We have a display in our office comparing a good quality filter with a cheap quality filter that costs less. Stop in any time, and we would love to show you why spending a little bit more for each oil change to have the good quality filters is worth it! We are located at 4261 W 5415 S in Kearns, UT. You can call us any time with questions you may have (801) 966-6021.

Connect with us:

• Our website
• Keep up to date on tips on our blog
• Connect with us on facebook
• Follow us on Twitter
• Watch our videos on YouTube

read more "Difference In Oil Change Prices"