Alexandria VA auto repair

Keeping your car looking new and fresh is not only aesthetically pleasing but also adds to its longevity. While getting a car wash is necessary, not all car wash services are created equal. Some may use strong detergents that may harm your car's paint or simply overlook areas that require cleaning. You may be wondering how to clean your car from home, and the good news is that it is pretty easy. Follow these tips to keep your car looking good as new! Materials you'll need: Hose Bucket Car soap Wash mitt or sponge Drying towels or chamois Step-by-Step Guide Start by thoroughly rinse your car with water to remove any loose dirt or debris. This helps to avoid any scratches that may be caused by rubbing loose dirt particles into the paint during washing. Next, fill up a bucket with water and add car soap. Make sure to use soap that is specifically formulated for car washing, as other soaps or detergents can strip away the protective wax coating of your car ... read more

When you properly take care of your vehicle and its engine, it should run with minimal noise. On the other hand, engine sounds or knocking (a common term to describe the noise) can mean your vehicle’s motor is headed for disaster. Knocking is one of the first signs that you can detect to avoid further engine damage. Here is what your engine knocking may mean:  Wrong Octane-Level Gas You may notice the engine knocking when you put the wrong fuel in your vehicle. Every car has a specific octane level of gas that it should burn. If your automaker recommends premium fuel, please do not fill up with regular. You should always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations when it comes to gasoline octane levels. Poor Timing Engine timing also plays a pivotal role in overall engine performance. Your vehicle’s onboard computer controls when each spark plug should fire. If the sequence of events is off, it can cause your engine to knock. Engine knocking can also occu ... read more