As an auto service advisor, one of the questions I frequently get asked is about using high octane or premium gas in customer’s vehicles. “Do I really need to put premium gas in my tank?” Often, customers will tell me they are unsure about purchasing a car that requires premium gas. Their focus is always on the higher cost of premium gas when they should be considering what a high octane rating means to the continued health of their vehicle.

When you own a fleet of vehicles for your business, time is valuable. Keeping your vehicles on the road and running smoothly translates into higher profits. At BA Auto Care, our ASE certified technicians understand the importance of keeping your fleet on the road. We provide a full ranges of auto repair services to fit your needs, including a preventive maintenance program that will keep your fleet vehicles running longer.

When most customers take in their vehicle for servicing, they don’t think of auto repair shops as environmentally friendly. Yes, they expect auto shops to recycle batteries, tires, and oil. But beyond these few (but still critical) items, car dealers and auto repair companies are not known as the poster children for protecting our planet.

You’re not a certified automotive mechanic but you’d still like to check out that used car you’ve had your eyes on to see if it is worth setting up an appointment to have your mechanic check out. Here are some things you can do before arranging for that Pre Purchase Inspection, including a handy check list you can use. Be sure to make careful notes so you can share your concerns with the technician who performs the final evaluation on your used car.

My Check Engine light is on, but my car seems to be running okay. Is it ok to keep driving?

My blog earlier this month dealt with the trend of keeping older, low tech vehicles. Proof positive of this recent movement in car ownership is our long time customer, Bill Homans. Bill stopped by recently to celebrate his 2012 Kia Sedona reaching an impressive 450,000 miles! And those were not easy miles. Bill spends his time delivering flowers all over the Frederick area. That’s a lot of stopping and starting.

New automobile owner research shows that more and more people are hanging on longer to their old cars, choosing to keep them running instead of buying a new car right away.

Be sure that you know what your check engine light looks like and where it is located. The check engine light is located on your dashboard where the instrument lights are. Different cars use different identifiers, so be sure to check out your vehicle manual so that you know exactly what your check engine light looks like.