#1 Check the Tire Pressure
Tire pressure plays a huge role in your vehicle’s performance and handling capabilities. An underinflated tire typically runs hotter than normal which can quickly lead to a tire blowout. And in the summer months when temperatures are scorching, the risk of this occurring is heightened. To prevent this from happening, check your tire pressure regularly to ensure levels are normal.
#2 Change Your Windshield Wipers
Rain and mud can prevent you from being able to see while driving, and though we may not get much rain in Reno, we do get a lot of heat in the summer. Windshield wipers are made from a flexible rubber material that suffers greatly in high temperatures. They can crack, blister, and break, leaving you vulnerable if the weather does go south. Windshield wipers can keep you safe on the road so be sure to have them replaced every 6 months.
#3 Prepare an Emergency Kit to Keep in Your Car or RV
An emergency kit should be kept in your vehicle at all times, but it’s important to check and update the kit with each new season. You should keep your emergency kit in a safe and accessible place in your car. Fill your emergency kit with:
- Jumper cables
- Flashlight
- First aid kit
- Road flares
- Coolant
- Phone charger
- Water
- Nonperishable food
- Fire blanket
#4 Give Your Vehicle a Bath
Once the weather warms up, it’s time to wash your car or RV. While this tip isn’t safety-related, it’s still important for keeping your vehicle properly maintained. Winter can be brutal on your car and RV, inside and out. Salt and sand lead to corrosion on the undercarriage and mud and water can also cause a big mess. Be sure to really clean the exterior paint, wheels wells, and the engine compartment. Focus on the windows as they can affect your visibility, and don’t forget to wipe down the inside!
And if you’re not wanting to clean and wash your car or RV on your own, have it detailed by a quality Reno auto detailing shop like A1 Body Shop.
#5 Protect the Interior and Exterior
After you’ve thoroughly cleaned your car, it’s time to protect it from dirt and grime. To help keep the interior and exterior of your car in tip-top shape, add a sealant or protective coating to its surfaces. There are sealants for exterior paint, wheels, tires, carpets, leather, cloth, and windows that will keep your car or RV looking like new.
#6 Preparing Your RV’s Plumbing System
Dewinterizing your RV is crucial before taking off on a spring or summer trip. The biggest step in doing this is flushing your plumbing system. Winterizing your RV involves adding non-toxic antifreeze to the water system. This helps prevent the pipes from freezing and bursting in the winter, but the antifreeze needs to be thoroughly cleaned out before you can use any of the water. To make your drinking, cooking, and bathing water clean and safe to use, you need to flush and then sanitize the entire plumbing system.
The process requires you to turn on the water pump, open all the faucets, and letting the water run for several minutes. Once the water comes out completely clear, the system can be sanitized. Your water will then be safe to use, just remember to dump the dirty water from the holding tanks at an official dump site.
#7 Check Your RV’s Leveling System
The leveling system on your RV ensures that your vehicle remains stable and flat while parked. Many RV’s rely on an automatic hydraulic leveling system which if properly maintained, should function without issue. To ensure the hydraulic level works as it should, have the system inspected by a reputable RV shop before bringing it on the road again. They can check for signs of wear and tear and address them before a problem arises.
#8 Test Your Appliances
You would be pretty upset if you got your RV set up for a long vacation only to realize that there is something wrong with your appliances. You not only rely on your appliances for comfortability, but for safety and security as well. Before heading out on the road, it’s important to check that all of your appliances are working properly. If you notice an issue with any of the appliances, contact our certified RV repair shop to schedule a time to have it looked at.
#9 Check Propane Tanks
If your RV uses propane, you’ll want to replace the propane in all of the tanks and secure them tightly in their mounts. Once the propane has been replaced, you can reconnect the hose. After connecting the hose and fitting, you should check for any leaks in the connectors and tighten if necessary. Then you should check your propane appliances to see if they are working properly.
#10 Test the RV Generator
Your RV’s generator gives your vehicle the power that is needed to turn on the light, use the fridge, and so much more. It stores energy that can be used to power your RV and it requires some regular maintenance to function at its best. You should have your onboard generator inspected and serviced by a professional if you notice the oil levels are low. And other generators, such as gas, need to be checked as well. Start by inspecting the exhaust system for damage, and then turn the generator on to test it. If the generator surges or does not start, then have it assessed and repaired by a professional.
Stop by A1 Body Shop for a Vehicle Inspection
You can trust the ASE-certified auto technicians at A1 Body Shop to care for your car as if it were their own. Our number one priority is always the safety and security of our customers which starts with getting your vehicle to function and operate at its best. A1 Body Shop has the tools, expertise, and experience to provide you with the highest quality auto repair services Reno has to offer. Connect with us today to get your vehicle in the shop for a comprehensive inspection before summer hits!
]]>To learn all about transmission fluid and how to properly care for your vehicle, read more below or connect with Reno’s top auto repair shop, A1 Body Shop!
When To Change Your Transmission Fluid
There are several factors that will affect the longevity of your transmission fluid including whether you have an automatic or manual transmission, your daily driving habits, and if you use your vehicle to tow or not. Manual transmissions typically require more frequent maintenance and should have the fluid changed more regularly. It’s recommended that you change the fluid in a manual transmission every 30,000 to 60,000 miles. However, with heavy use, such as towing often, your transmission fluid will need to be replaced about every 15,000 to 20,000 miles.
Automatic transmissions typically require a fluid change every 30,000 to 100,000 miles depending on the type of driving you do (i.e. constant stopping and going) and how much driving you do. More heat is generated in an automatic transmission which causes the fluid to degrade and break down with use. This may result in the need to add fluid more often, but doesn’t necessarily mean the fluid needs to be replaced.
In order to determine whether or not your transmission fluid needs to be changed, it’s essential that you regularly check the fluid.
Checking Your Transmission Fluid
To check your transmission fluid, first, begin by starting the engine. To accurately check the fluid’s level and color, the liquid must be tested while warm. So, park your vehicle on a flat, level surface and leave it idling. Next, pull out the dipstick, wipe it clean, replace it slowly, and then pull it back out. Check to see how high the fluid comes up on the dipstick to determine its level – there are lines for “low” and “high” labeled on the dipstick to make this more clear. Then, take a clean, preferably white or light-colored rag, and wipe the dipstick to check its color. If your fluid is in good condition, it should have a reddish-pink color. And if it’s getting to the point of needing replacement, the color will turn brownish-red or have noticeable dirt and other contaminants.
Other indicators that your transmission fluid is in need of being replaced could be:
- Burnt smell
- Excessively thick consistency
- Loss of viscosity
The Importance of Replacing Your Fluid
In order for your transmission to function properly, it requires a certain type of fluid to keep the gears lubricated and prevent them from grinding. If the transmission fluid levels get too low the gears will begin to grind against one another and cause damage within the transmission and its other components. Likewise, contaminated transmission fluids can cause damage within the transmission that could possibly lead to transmission failure.
When Should You Have Your Transmission Checked by a Professional?
Typically, if your transmission is having problems it’ll give you some warning signs that let you know it’s time to see a mechanic. Many of the clues your vehicle will give you can be easily detected using your senses including smell and hearing. Commonly, when there is an existing transmission concern, you’ll hear screeching, grinding, or clanking noises, see transmission fluid leaking from your vehicle, or will smell something burning. Some other warning signs include overheating, slipped gears, and there will be a delay when switching gears.
If you notice any of these symptoms, be sure to connect with a Reno auto repair shop right away.
Take Your Car into an Auto Repair Shop
If you notice your transmission is having issues or the fluid needs to be changed, connect with the experts at A1 Auto Repair today! We can assess the underlying issue of your transmission and perform routine maintenance to ensure your vehicle runs smoothly. Connect with us today to learn more about our quality auto body repair services and set up an appointment today!
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#1 Do you offer rental or loaner cars?
While we do not offer free loaner cars nor do we have rental vehicles available on our property, we can help make arrangements for a rental car to be set up for you through one of the rental car companies around town. Typically, we work with Enterprise or Hertz because they offer shuttle service to get you from our shop to their location. And when it comes time to return the rental car, you can drop the vehicle off at the rental car facility and they will bring you to our shop.
Be sure to check with your insurance company to see if rental vehicles are covered by your insurance plan.
#2 Do I have to use the repair shop recommended by my insurance?
Insurance companies can refer you to shops that they work with, but ultimately you can choose who does the work. Most insurance-recommended body shops in Reno, NV are reputable and perform high-quality repairs, but there are a few untrustworthy shops out there that cut corners to get the job done faster and cheaper. These shops will entice insurance adjusters with lower repair costs, but that could result in a shoddy repair. Before agreeing to get your car fixed at an insurance-recommended shop, do some research online by searching Yelp or other sites with small business reviews.
#3 Will the painted parts match the rest of my vehicle?
The expert technicians at A1 Auto Body ensure each newly painted part matches the rest of the vehicle. We perfectly match the paint used on any new parts to the OEM factory finish of your vehicle. Our Reno paint shop uses a computerized paint mixing system that provides incredibly accurate color matching for beautiful paint and body collision repair results in Reno.
Custom color schemes and graphics are also available along with any custom pinstriping, vinyl wraps, and custom logos.
#4 How long will it take to complete the repairs?
Each auto body repair is different and the duration it takes to complete the repairs will depend on a variety of factors. In most cases, repairs can be made in 7-10 business days, but things such as the extent of the damage, availability of parts, and how busy the shop is can play a factor in how long repairs take. Minor repairs such as small dents or scratches may be completed in a matter of hours or days.
To determine how long your repairs will take, be sure to speak with your auto body mechanic following your repair assessment. Once this has been done, the technician will have a better understanding of the time frame and extent of the repairs.
#5 Can I wash my car after the repairs have been completed?
This question comes up quite often and the simple answer is, yes. It is recommended that if you decide to wash your vehicle within 30 days of your repairs, you should do so very carefully. Avoid the commercial car washes and wash your vehicle by hand instead. Remember to use cool water, a mild car cleaning solution, and a soft, clean sponge or cloth.
Some of the other things you should avoid doing for about a month after getting your car back from the auto body repair shop include:
- Dry wiping your vehicle after a wash
- Driving on gravel roads
- Parking under trees, utility lines, or other common areas where bird droppings may be present
- Scraping snow or ice from the painted surfaces
Auto Body Repair from Quality Technicians
The ASE-certified technicians at A1 Boy Shop follow a strict code of ethics and integrity. They work on vehicles that come through the shop as if they were their own. We know how difficult it can be to handle a vehicle collision, which is why we work so hard to get you back on the road quickly, and most importantly, safely.
We also work directly with your insurance so that you don’t have to. It’s essential that you find the best auto repair shop in Reno, regardless of who your insurance recommends, so be sure to do your research to find the one that’s right for you.
Connect with us today to learn more about our quality auto body repair services and set up an appointment!
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6 Tips for Choosing the Right Reno Auto Body Repair Shop
#1 Get Referrals
One of the best ways to find a reputable auto body repair shop is to get referrals and recommendations from friends, family, and other trusted sources. Hearing about others’ first-hand experiences with certain repair shops can help you determine which places to avoid and which places you should learn more about. You can get referrals by asking your trusted friends and family or take a look at online reviews and recommendations from sources such as Yelp.
#2 Research the Company
After getting a few recommended suggestions, it’s time to do some research of your own to decide which auto body repair shop will be best for you. You want to make sure that you find out more about their track record in the industry. Do they perform quality repairs that last? What is their turn around time? How long have they been in the industry? What is their experience?
These questions will help you determine a repair shop’s ability to get the job done quickly, accurately, and efficiently.
#3 Qualifications are Key
When looking for the best auto repair shop in Reno, it’s crucial to see what qualifications the shop has. Are they licensed and insured? Do they hire experienced technicians? What added certifications do they have? A quality auto body repair shop such as A1 Body Shop will be ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) certified and dedicated to providing excellent repair services that are held to a higher standard. These technicians are required to follow a strict code of ethics that ensures excellence in vehicle repair, service, and parts distribution.
#4 Get Price Comparisons
Pricing can be a huge factor in determining which auto body repair shop to use. However, it’s important to note that the shop with the lowest cost isn’t always the best choice. These shops are likely to cut corners in order to cut costs, leaving you with a poorly serviced vehicle that looks less than acceptable.
The best way to avoid overcharging is to get a few estimates from various shops and compare the costs. Some repair shops will even price match competitors’ prices making the decision that much easier.
#5 Proper Equipment and Tools
The last thing you want to deal with is a shop that can’t provide the services you need due to a lack of tools and equipment. This will often delay the repair process and can be a huge setback for you. So, be sure to ask the auto body repair shop if they have all the necessary tools and proper equipment to get the job done.
#6 Go With Your Gut
If you’re still unsure of which repair shop to hire, take a step back and consider which shop you feel the best about. Your intuition can be extremely helpful in situations like these. If you notice the place is booming with business, it’s likely that they’re a good service provider. And if you notice that a shop is unkempt, dirty, and unorganized, then you may realize they aren’t a good choice. Trust your instincts and go with your gut.
Best Auto Repair Shop in Reno
The ASE certified technicians at A1 Boy Shop follow a strict code of ethics and integrity. They work on vehicles that come through the shop as if they were their own. We know how difficult it can be to handle a vehicle collision, which is why we work so hard to get you back on the road quickly, and most importantly, safely.
We also work directly with your insurance so that you don’t have to. And keep in mind that typically insurance companies will tell you who to go to for your auto body repairs, but this doesn’t have to be the case. It’s essential that you find the best auto repair shop in Reno, regardless of who your insurance recommends.
Connect with us today to learn more about our quality auto body repair services and set up an appointment today!
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Happy Holidays! Winter is in full swing, and it’s important to remember that road conditions can be less than ideal. From black ice to reduced visibility, the chances of getting into an accident during this time of year are much higher than any other. However, fear not! We’ve compiled some winter driving tips and tricks for making sure that you and your car are prepared for the snowy months.
Just follow these simple steps, and your winter commutes will be not only more enjoyable, but also safer.
Black Ice
Black ice is one of the most dangerous winter hazards you will face on the road. Slippery, hard to spot and deadly, this frozen terror causes countless accidents every year. Here are a few things to keep in mind when dealing with black ice:
- Don’t speed. Black ice offers absolutely no traction for your tires, so slow and steady is the way to go.
- Avoid sudden jerky motions with the wheel. These will increase your likelihood of spinning out.
- Watch the temperature. Black ice is most likely to be on the road when the temperature is below 32 degrees Fahrenheit.
Know How to Handle a Skid
Many people do not know how to deal with skidding out in the snow or ice. Here are step by step directions on how to achieve the best possible outcomes if you start to spin:
- Take your feet off the pedals.
- DO NOT SLAM ON THE BRAKES. Try to “pump” them instead.
- Steer into the direction of the skid: Drivers should turn their front wheels in the same direction as their back wheels. For example, if the back of the car is moving to the right, turn the steering wheel to the right.
- Use the steering wheel slowly and smoothly. Oversteering will only worsen the situation.
Slow Down!
It might seem like it goes without saying, but when conditions are snowy or icy, the roads are incredibly slippery. It is important to keep this in mind for every action you perform on the road. Brake earlier and slower. Approach red lights and stop signs with extra caution.
It’s also important to make sure that you keep an eye out for other drivers. Not everyone is familiar with driving in snowy conditions, so be sure to watch the road and others on it with equal closeness.
Make Sure Your Car is Winter Driving Ready
It’s important to prepare your car for the harsh conditions on the road. Here are some easy ways to do that:
- Put winter tires on your vehicle or add chains to your existing tires
- Keep your fuel tank over half full to avoid condensation and freezing
- Keep a scraper/brush in your car for your windows
- Don’t drive on the road until you’ve totally cleared your windows of all snow and ice
- Brush excess snow off of the top of your car before driving
Safe Winter Driving with A1 Body Shop
We hope that his blog has helped shine some light on the best ways to keep your commute safe this holiday season. If you have any questions at all about driving in these winter conditions, please get in touch with us at A1 Body Shop by calling (775) 348-0908.
]]>If you don’t winterize your RV, it can be especially prone to leaks, rotting and broken pipes during the winter months. While every RV is different in the specifics, we will cover some general guidelines for winterizing your RV.
Plumbing
One of the most important steps to winterization is making sure your plumbing is ready for the cold. This involves draining your pipes and adding RV antifreeze into the system to prevent leaks, breaks and frozen pipes.
- To start off, you’ll want to drain all the holding tanks in the RV, including the fresh water, gray water, and black water tanks.
- Flush the toilet, run the shower and open any other faucets in the RV to get rid of all the water in the system.
- Drain the water heater. Generally, you’ll want to remove the cover of the heater, pull the pressure release valve, and then drain the tank making sure it is completely depressurized.
- Then, go back and recap all the tanks, faucets and drains that you just emptied, and add non-toxic camper antifreeze, open all the faucets once again and make sure antifreeze comes out.
Remove and clean everything in the RV
This is a very important step that a lot of people tend to skip over. Many people just remove the food, but make sure to remove everything including personal items and hygiene products.
Food residue will attract mice and pests, so give your RV a nice wipe down including the kitchen, bathroom and living areas, and vacuum, if necessary. Mice and bugs will find a way into your RV, so remove everything from the fridge, freezer and pantry including canned goods and plastic containers.
After you clean the fridge and freezer, prop them open to allow air to circulate. You don’t want to hop into your RV in the Spring for your first camping trip to an awful odor.
Any stains or spills on the carpet or upholstery should be cleaned right away, so they don’t worsen over time, become ground in or attract unwanted pests.
Cover vents, openings and windows
Insects and pests like to nest in the furnace, bathroom and refrigerator so make sure to cover them adequately so you don’t come back to an RV full of mice! Check all the windows to ensure they are sealed properly and repair them, if necessary.
It’s also recommended to block the exhaust pipe with steel wool because that is another favorite nesting spot for pests.
Turn off electrical systems
You don’t need or want your electrical systems on all winter, so turn off the water pump, water heater, fridge and other electrical appliances. You may also want to just turn off the main circuit breaker completely.
Miscellaneous
The few steps mentioned earlier are vital to fully winterizing your RV, but we will mention a few more things for added protection.
- Protect your RV with a full body cover
- Cover your tires
- Park on a flat concrete area, NOT asphalt
- Make sure tires are properly inflated
- Keep the roof clear from snow throughout the winter
A1 Body Shop– RV repair
Hopefully this blog has given you a little insight into the best ways to winterize your RV. We also have a how to winterize your RV video that touches on a few different subjects.
Not only are we one of the top auto body shops in the Northern Nevada area, but we also have a sister company that specializes in everything RV—A1 RV Sales. Whether you need new parts or a repair job, our experts are equipped with the knowledge and expertise to get your RV working properly. Contact us today with any questions or general inquiries!
]]>Prepping your car tires for winter conditions will not only make it easier to drive in the snow, but it will also make it much safer and extend the life of your vehicle. This blog will explore some tips from our experts at A1 Body Shop to get your Reno winter tires ready.
Winter Tires
While you can use all season tires during the winter, it could be worth it to invest in some winter tires, especially if your car is two wheel drive. You should maybe take extra consideration if you live in one of the numerous foothill neighborhoods in the Reno area where the elevation increases, and you have to drive back and forth daily.
Winter tires provide extra grip to the icy, snowy and wet road conditions where all season tires can become stiff and less effective in cold temperatures. Nevada state law states that Reno winter tires are permitted from October 1st to April 30th.
Check Your Tread
One of the easiest ways to see if your tires are ready for the winter is to check your tire tread. There is a legal limit to how much tread you should have, but that does not always mean that it’s safe.
If you notice any excessive wear or damage to your tires, you might want to consider an upgrade. A popular way to check if you have enough tread is to place a penny in the tread, and if any part of Lincoln’s head is covered by the tread then you have a sufficient amount.
Rotate Your Tires
After you check your tread and conclude that there is sufficient tread for the winter months, then you should determine if you need to rotate your tires. If it has been over 6 months since your last rotation or if you notice more wear on the back or front tires, then it is time for another. Frequent rotations will allow the tires to wear evenly and reduce the risk of imbalance and increase stability.
Wheel Alignment
If your wheels are unaligned you may notice your vehicle is drifting or pulling to one side. This can be detrimental to your tires, and it can make your car even more prone to losing control, especially in winter driving conditions.
Aligning your wheels will stabilize your vehicle, and evenly spread the wear so it is not on one centralized area or tire. When you bring in your car for an alignment ask them to check the tire pressure as well for ideal arrangement.
Consider Snow Chains
If you make frequent trips to the mountains during the winter you might want to consider buying a pair of snow chains, even if your car is all wheel drive. They are always a good thing to fall back on if something happens to go wrong.
If you’re completely new to snow chains, then we recommend installing them at home a few times to get familiar with them before you’re stuck on the side of the road trying to put them on in a blizzard.
A1 Body Shop
Winter is quickly approaching in the Northern Nevada area, so don’t hesitate to start prepping your car for winter conditions. We are prepared with the tools, expertise and experience to keep your car on the road. Contact us today to get started!
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Similar to routine maintenance like oil changes, fluid checks and tire rotations—regularly detailing your car is very proactive against wear and tear, and it can keep your car in great shape for years to come.
Preserve Paint
The paint on our daily driver is continuously prone to chipping, flaking and cracking. A thorough A1 auto detail will add an extra layer of protection that your paint needs to last and it can restore that new car shine. This will also protect against severe weather if you’re in an area prone to extreme environmental conditions.
Restore Scratches and Blemishes
While you may be thinking, “Why get an expensive detail when I can just get a quick car wash?” Where in reality, a cheap car wash only focuses on the surface level dust, dirt and mud. An A1 auto detail can exponentially rejuvenate your car’s exterior look. An A1 detail is not just an automated car wash, but it’s an experienced detailer using special equipment and supplies.
An exterior detail goes past just the surface level grime on your car. Many scratches are subtly ingrained in your car that creates a faded look where only a thorough detailer can buff them out. Our experts at A1 Body Shop are able to actually restore some of those scratches you thought you’d never be able to get out with our premier A1 auto detailing services.
Protect the Resale Value of Your Vehicle
As soon as you drive that new car off the lot the resale value starts to drop. If you plan on reselling your vehicle, or even if you’re not sure, an auto detailing will help protect the resale value.
Like many people, they only get one auto detail just before they start to try to sell it. This probably won’t help the resale value increase, but instead you should regularly detail your car. A vehicle in great cosmetic condition will be much more appealing to a buyer.
Detail All Aspects of Your Vehicle
Auto detailing is not exclusively for the exterior of your vehicle. Details can also include the interior, the undercarriage, and the wheels and rims. Not only does this make a more aesthetically pleasing vehicle, but it has proven to improve performance, safety and overall comfortability.
A1 Auto Detailing Services
Here at A1 Body Shop in Sparks, NV, our customers are the livelihood of our business. We strive to provide exceptional customer service and our auto experts are held to a high level of service. From vehicle body repair and services to RV repairs, we do it all.
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The easiest way to protect your car is to simply park inside or in the shade. Avoiding direct sunlight whenever possible will significantly reduce damage. Also, try cracking a couple of windows for airflow and pressure release.
Another simple, cost-effective way to protect your car from sun heat is a windshield protector. They are cheap, easy to use, can be conveniently stored in your car, and are great if you have to park outside or have limited shade.
Dust and dirt combined with direct sunlight will also have a devastating effect on your interior. Try using a microfiber cloth to wipe down your dashboard, steering wheel, and middle console to remove dirt that contributes to cracking, fading, and discoloration.
Seat covers can also be a smart investment for sun protection. For leather seats, you can try a leather conditioner for added protection.
Exterior
Comparable to the interior, parking inside or in the shade will preserve your paint job. Frequent washing and hand drying will also keep dirt and grime from building up and prevent eventual cracking. A layer of wax will also provide your car with extra protection. Combining frequent washing and hand drying along with the occasional wax will protect your car from sun heat damage.
Don’t forget about your tires; they also experience wear and tear from the sun. Keep an eye on your tire pressure. Scorching hot pavement and neglected tires can lead to quick wear and an unexpected blowout. If you’re making frequent beach trips to the lake make sure you’re checking your tire pressure a couple of times a month!
Under the hood
Not only does the sun damage the aesthetics of your car, but also the performance. Check and make sure your cooling system, belts, and coolant fluid are all in working order. Along with the coolant/antifreeze fluid, check the motor oil, transmission fluid, power steering fluid, and brake fluid. Fluid upkeep is crucial to maintaining your car during the hot summer months.
Your battery will take on additional stress from high accessory loads—like your air conditioning system. Get the battery checked so you don’t end up stuck in a parking lot waiting for AAA to arrive.
A1 Body Shop
Here in the Reno area, we experience the best (and worst) of all four seasons, and A1 Body Shop understands the complications this brings for your car. From snow to sunshine, we want to extend our knowledge of car maintenance to the community. For more information or if you would like to schedule an appointment contact us today!
]]>What is Rust?
Rust is an iron oxide that’s formed from the reaction of iron and oxygen, and it forms quicker in the presence of water. So if you live in a humid area or your vehicle is stored outside, it is more susceptible to rust.
Steps to Get Rid of Rust
For minor vehicle rusting like a few small chips or spots, using a liquid or aerosol rust remover is perfect.
- To start off you will want to tape off the section with rust to protect the surrounding paint.
- Follow the instructions on the rust remover. It’s normally just spraying it onto the rust and letting it sit, then wiping off with a rag.
- If there is still some rust residue, you can sand it off with sandpaper.
- When the rust is gone to your liking, you will want to clean with a grease and wax remover soap and let it air dry.
- Spray three coats of primer. Allow an hour to dry.
- Spray color base coat. Feel free to do 5 or 6 coats or until there is complete coverage. Spray thinner coats than the primer.
- Spray the clear coat. Wait a few days before washing, and body shops advise you to wait 3-6 months before waxing.
Major Rust Removal
To get rid of rust on a larger scale, like an entire panel, you’ll need a few tools: masking tape, a sander, a metal grinder, rust remover, and safety glasses.
- For the first step, you will want to section off the part of the vehicle you are working on with masking tape.
- Remove the paint and primer using the sander. We recommend starting with 80 grit and working your way up to 150 grit. Try not to put any more pressure on the spots than needed. You may also be able to get some surface rust off with the sander.
- Apply rust remover and use the metal grinder or metal rescue to remove the rust. Be careful not to damage the car sheet metal during this process. Read and follow the directions on the rust remover for proper application and drying time. When the rust is gone to your liking, follow steps 4-7 from the basic rust removal instructions.
Preventing Rust
- Regular inspections. To take care of your rust problem, you have to know that you have one in the first place. Complete routine inspections of your car to stay on top of the problem. Be sure to check wheel wells, bumpers, areas where body components meet, drain holes, and the underside of your vehicle.
- Apply anti-rust products. There are hundreds of anti-rust products out there to keep your car rust-free. Head over to our contact page where you can talk to an expert about the best fit for your vehicle.
- Park smart. Parking outside, on gravel or dirt, snow, or a continuously wet or moist area can all expedite the rusting process on your vehicle. Even old asphalt parking spots increase the amount of moisture that the underside of your car is exposed to.
- Clean your car regularly. While most car owners regularly wash the exterior, the underside and under-hood are often forgotten. Rust thrives in these places especially if you drive off-road. Use a power washer or a hose and a stiff brush to keep these spots clean.
Get Rid of Rust at A1 Body Shop
Our expert team here at A1 Body Shop have the tools and experience to provide our customers with the highest quality service. We offer vehicle collision repair, RV and trailer repair, and a 3,000 square-foot RV parts showroom. If you have any questions regarding rust, guidance through insurance claims, or if you just don’t know where to start, call us at (775)348-0908 or contact us online.
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