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Clear the Air | How to Assess Car Odors

Clear the Air | How to Assess Car Odors

While driving, one of the most frustrating things that can occur is getting a whiff of an odor that is not normal for your car. Knowing what different car smells mean can help you better diagnose your vehicle’s problem and get it properly fixed. Hydrogen sulfide in your exhaust could be causing your car to smell like rotten eggs. If you are like me, having a foreign smell arise in your car can be frustrating. That is why we at Sallas Auto have taken the time to put together a list of top car odors and how to clear them out of the air, literally. Rotten Eggs If you have ever turned your car on and smelled rotten eggs it is time to check the exhaust, not for eggs, but for hydrogen sulfide. Hydrogen sulfide is produced when your catalytic converter is not working correctly. If you smell eggs you should definitely take your car into a trusted auto shop, the smell suggests you have trouble. A trusted shop w ... read more

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Car Odors

The Selling vs. Trading Cars Guide

Is it time for a new vehicle? In an economy full of high gas prices, yet low housing prices, it’s hard to know where your car fits into the picture. If you’re looking to switch vehicles this spring, here’s our guide to trading vs. selling your vehicles. In almost all cases, you will get more money for your used vehicle if you sell it yourself. However, it can be easier and even smarter to go ahead and trade it in. Below are the recommendations from Sallas Auto Repair owner, Nick Sallas, on how to determine what to do with your used vehicle. The Selling Your Car Guide Selling your car yourself will probably make you the most money off of your used car. Before you advertise your vehicle for sale, you’ll need to “stage” your car, just like you would “stage” a house before putting it on the marketing. Take it to get professionally detailed, waxed, and cleaned. Just like a house, don’t try to sell a personal car with personal items. Remove all papers, pens, loose change, car seats, bags ... read more

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Car Inspection

Why Should You Get Your Car Inspected?

Why Should You Get Your Car Inspected?

You may think the motor vehicle inspection requirement is a hassle and a way for auto mechanics to make more money. But there’s a reason to keep your vehicle in safe working order. A defective vehicle may not respond the right way if the driver tries to avoid an accident. And a defective vehicle may not keep the occupants inside the car safe if an accident does happen. And frankly, who wants to break down on a busy highway or even in your driveway? Stay safe on the road with a vehicle inspection. A certified inspection station will go over your car and inspect all the car’s systems and mechanicals. From the exhaust system to the mirrors, tires and wheels, brakes to steering mechanism, your car will get a meticulous examination. They’ll even check the horn. And while you may end up with a repair or two to meet inspection standards it’s all for a good reason. According to the Missouri State Highway P ... read more

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Car Inspection

The Proper Way To Wash Your Car

The Proper Way To Wash Your Car

f you’ve ever waited in a long line at the car wash, paid ten dollars or more, and then notice all the dirt and grime still on your car when you get home you probably want to scream. So maybe this is the time to do it yourself! Or better yet, grab the nearest teenager and hand them a sponge. But before you do there are a few things to remember. And not just that teenagers need watching because they wander off. Sallas Auto Repair doesn’t wash cars but we care about cars so we’ve compiled some tips for you to keep your car looking great. There's a right way to wash your car! First of all don’t grab the dish washing soap to wash your car! This is your baby so you want to use a product made especially for autos and dish washing soap will strip the wax from your car. Mix according to the directions for the best results, don’t just pour into the bucket and add water. Heat causes soap to ... read more

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Car Cleaning

How To Wax Your Car

How To Wax Your Car

We covered the best way to wash your car in our last post so let’s just put the cherry on top and wax her while she’s in the driveway. Which wax you choose is a matter of taste so rather than go into a long list of types and ingredients we’ll just go with Nu-Finish or Turtle Wax as they were Consumer Reports top performers. Just stick to the non-abrasive waxes no matter your brand. And carefully read the directions. Of course you’ve thoroughly washed and completely dried your car, it’s still out of the direct sun and you’re not completely worn out. One firm rule about waxing your car is that temperature and humidity will greatly affect your results. So above 60 degrees and below 50 percent humidity is best. Use an applicator sponge to apply the wax. If you use a cloth the pressure from your fingertips will leave a heavie ... read more

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Car Cleaning