ozziesauto

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TSB, not USB

You probably know that USB is a computer term (it stands for Universal Serial Bus). But do you know what a TSB is? You should, because it could be important for your vehicle.

A TSB is a Technical Service Bulletin.  Once a new vehicle is introduced and starts being driven by thousands of real-world users, weaknesses in parts or design are revealed.  So, automakers send out TSBs, so service technicians will know to look for those problems.  A TSB can be issued for things such as a loud noise when the vehicle turns or a minivan power door that won't close properly.

A TSB is not the same as a recall.  If a vehicle has a defect that could result in people being hurt or illegal emissions, that vehicle is recalled.  The manufacturer must pay for a safety defect to be fixed, usually at a dealership.

When a Technical Service Bulletin is issued, it's an acknowledgment that the vehicle manufacturer has noticed a pattern of something not working the way it should.  They also suggest the proper repair to address these known issues.  The cost for a TSB is usually only covered by the manufacturer if the vehicle is still under warranty.

If your vehicle is no longer covered by a warranty, but a TSB has been issued on a certain problem, any service facility can perform the service.  Ask your NAPA AutoCare Service Advisor about TSBs that may have been issued for your vehicle.  Those TSBs can be helpful for the technician to diagnose any problem you are experiencing.  The TSB will also guide the technician on the best repair procedure to get your vehicle working the way it should.  We’re committed to maintaining your vehicle’s performance, safety, and fuel economy.  Trust your vehicle to NAPA AutoCare.

Ozzie's Automotive

74894 Lennon Place Suite F2

Palm Desert, CA 92260

760.773.5939

www.ozziesautomotive.com

[ozziesauto]

Fuel Pump

Help your fuel pump last longer. One pump killer is contamination in the fuel tank. Sometimes this comes from the fuel itself. Buying fuel at a reputable Palm Desert station will help make sure you are putting clean fuel into the tank. Older vehicles tend to have more sediment in the tank from years of rust or corrosion from the tank itself. The tank may need a thorough cleaning or replacement.

Another thing you can do is refill your tank when it gets down to about a quarter full. The fuel pump is submerged in the fuel which cools and lubricates it. When the tank runs low, the pump has to work harder to suck up the fuel from the bottom and there is no fuel to cool it. This can lead to premature wear.

When the day comes that your fuel pump needs to be replaced, Ozzie's Automotive in Palm Desert will use a quality replacement pump that meets or exceeds your vehicle manufacturer's specifications. The entire assembly should be replaced. Your Ozzie's Automotive service advisor will be sure to install a replacement pump that is compatible with your fuel type. For example, if you have a FlexFuel vehicle that can run on gasoline with up to 85% ethanol content, your fuel system components – including the fuel pump – must be able to withstand the corrosive effects of high alcohol content fuel.

Give us a call. Ozzie's Automotive 74894 Lennon Place Suite F2 Palm Desert, CA 92260 760.773.5939

www.ozziesautomotive.com

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The Pros of Pros (Let Us Do It For You)

Modern vehicles usually have four wheels, a steering wheel, and an engine, just as they have for decades.  But an awful lot has changed since the days of carburetors and drum brakes.  The addition of computers to so many automotive systems has been a game changer, enabling safer braking systems, stability control, and better fuel economy, to name a few. 

Let's face it. Vehicles are far more sophisticated than they have ever been.  There was a time when many motorists felt they could take care of some basic maintenance and repair items.  Those days are pretty much gone, and safety is the number one reason you should leave modern vehicle repairs to the pros.

Today's best technicians stay up to date with the latest training and have tens of thousands of dollars in tools and electronic diagnostic equipment at their fingertips. They have the proper lifts and other heavy equipment required for reaching areas that can't otherwise be reached. They know how dozens of onboard computers are integrated with sensors and mechanical equipment.  They also know how to test and diagnose very complex concerns properly.

Your NAPA AutoCare Center has access to repair databases, so they know the correct service procedure on a wide variety of vehicles. 

Think about it.  Skilled automotive technicians have acquired their expertise after years of training.  Frequently an automotive problem isn't quite as clear cut as it may seem, and those years of experience prepare technicians for the inevitable unexpected twist or turn in an issue they might encounter while working on your vehicle. 

A vehicle is a heavy machine that travels at high speeds.  It encounters unexpected obstacles and requires precise steering and braking.  It contains safety equipment that can save your life if it's working properly.  It simply makes sense to enlist the services of people who know how to diagnose problems that are sometimes difficult and tricky to figure out, then repair them, so your vehicle is working at peak efficiency, performance, and safety.  Those are the pros of having the pros work on your vehicle. 

Your NAPA AutoCare Center has technicians that have ASE certification for every service they offer.  That’s peace of mind.

Ozzie's Automotive 74894 Lennon Place Suite F2 Palm Desert, CA 92260 760.773.5939

www.ozziesautomotive.com

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The Foggiest Idea (Fogged Windows in Cold Weather)

In cold weather, you may notice your windows fogging up. Then you can't see where you're going, and suddenly you and those around you are in danger. So, what causes your windows to fog up in cold weather, and how can you stop it?

Fog is simply moisture condensing on a cold surface. When the air inside your vehicle is moist and warmer than the outside air, it hits the glass that's cooled by the outside temperature, and you get fog.

If your windows fog up, you probably already know to try the defroster for your windshield. You may also have an electric defroster for your rear window and outside rearview mirrors. Electric elements in the window and mirror glass heat up, so the moisture doesn't condense on the glass.

If the defroster isn't working on all the windows, turn up the temperature setting on your heater. Hot air holds more moisture. Switch on the air conditioning. As the air moves over the cooling coils, the moisture is removed. Turn your ventilation system off the "recirculating" setting, so it lets in outside air. Open a couple of windows slightly to move some of the moist, warm air out as the cooler, dry air comes in. Your windows should quickly clear up.

For this to work, all the systems in your vehicle must be working properly, of course. Blower motors must work, and the air conditioner condenser and its other components need to be in good operating condition. Plus, you have to be able to roll down your windows.

This is why it's essential to keep all of the components in your vehicle in good working order. Who knew it was so important for your air conditioner to work in cold weather months? Add to that the fact that, in many vehicles, the air conditioner automatically comes on when you turn on your windshield defroster. That way, the A/C removes moisture as the heat warms the glass to prevent condensation, a very effective one-two punch. It's a good idea to have your NAPA AutoCare Center perform an A/C inspection every year to make sure it's working as it should all year round.

Oh, one thing that helps prevent fogging is making sure the insides of your windows are cleaned regularly. Dirt and oil on the glass give water molecules something to cling to. Boy, this sure clears up the subject of foggy windows!

Ozzie's Automotive 74894 Lennon Place Suite F2 Palm Desert, CA 92260 760.773.5939

www.ozziesautomotive.com

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Care About Your Spare (Spare Tire Care)

Most of us don't worry about getting a flat tire. After all, it rarely happens, and if it does, we might think we can just call someone and have them put on the spare. That's all fine and dandy if your spare is in good shape. But how many of us even think twice about the condition of our spare tires?

The spares that take the biggest beating are those mounted outside, like those on SUVs and trucks. They might be on the tailgate or underneath the vehicle. These get exposed to water, dirt, salt, and road debris. The mounting hardware can become so corroded that you may not even be able to get the spare out of its holder, leaving you with no usable spare at all.

When you get your tires rotated, ask your NAPA AutoCare Center to check the condition and inflation of the outside-mounted spare and its holder. A little lubrication and maintenance periodically can help keep them fit for action. Often the spare on an SUV or truck is the same size as the other tires and may be included in the regular rotation – check your owner's manual.

How about those compact spare tires that are sitting in the trunk, out of sight and out of mind? They can have low air pressure too because, over time, the air can slowly escape. It's a good idea to have your service facility check the spare's pressure and condition at least twice a year, if not more frequently. What good is a spare with inadequate air pressure?

And then there are the vehicles that don't have spares at all. They may have an inflator kit. That needs to be kept in good shape, too. Know that an inflator kit can't fix many tire punctures and failures. They frequently have a sealant in them that attempts to plug leaks and holes. That sealant has an expiration date and should be replaced when it expires. Again, ask Service Advisor if your inflator kit is up to date and working.

Be fair to your spare and show it you care.

Ozzie's Automotive 74894 Lennon Place Suite F2 Palm Desert, CA 92260 760.773.5939

www.ozziesautomotive.com

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A Trusted Gold Certified NAPA AutoCare Center

NAPA has been the recognized quality leader in the auto repair parts business for decades.

Regular maintenance is the key to getting the most out of your vehicle. But you shouldn't have to sacrifice trust and peace of mind when finding an auto shop for your automobile. NAPA AutoCare Centers are built around a quality standard where independent repair business owners are invited to join based on integrity, qualifications and expertise. That's how NAPA AutoCare ensures you get the best in class service that you deserve.

At Ozzie's Automotive, our #1 goal is complete customer satisfaction. Every day, with every customer, we focus on providing high-quality auto repair, coupled with top-notch automotive service. With countless five-star reviews, we are proud of our reputation as one of the most trustworthy auto repair shops in Palm Desert, Indian Wells, Rancho Mirage, La Quinta, and surrounding cities.

Call Your Friendly Service Advisor Today! [phone]

www.ozziesautomotive.com

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Suspension

Let's talk about your suspension – you know, the system that connects your wheels to your vehicle, controls your handling and delivers a good ride as you cruise around Palm Desert, CA. Your suspension is critical for proper steering, stopping and stability.

Hey, it's a rough world out there in CA – every time you hit a pothole, a bump or an object in the road, your suspension system has to absorb the impact and maintain control.

As you can imagine, your suspension has a lot of joints and pivot points that allow your wheels to move up and down over bumps and to turn as you steer. These parts include ball joints, tie rod ends, the pitman, idler arms and the control arm bushing. They simply wear out over time.

When a joint or other part is worn the suspension parts don't fit together as tightly as they should. Handling and steering has a loose feel and you may hear strange noises. Your tires will wear unevenly because they're bouncing down the Palm Desert, CA, road a little off kilter.

A loose joint has the effect of stressing other suspension components so they wear out faster than they should. Sometimes a suspension part can be bent from hitting a rock or curb or by slamming into a big pothole.

When your Palm Desert, CA, service advisor at Ozzie's Automotive inspects your vehicle, he'll look for signs of suspension problems: things like uneven tire wear, excessive play in suspension components and other visible damage. He can replace the worn or damaged parts and restore safe handling.

It's a great idea to take care of these problems right away before they become more expensive to repair. And nobody in Palm Desert likes to see a tire that should last for several years get worn out in a matter of months because of a bad suspension part.

Let us help you keep your vehicle operating safely. And saving some money on repairs and tire replacement is a good thing too.

At Ozzie's Automotive in Palm Desert, CA, 92260, we install quality NAPA replacement parts.

You can reach us locally at 760.773.5939.

www.ozziesautomotive.com

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Napa EasyPay Credit Card!

The NAPA EasyPay Credit Card also offers other benefits to our customers, including:

Accepted at gas stations nationwide**

Exclusive cardholder discounts

Convenient monthly payments

and more!

At Ozzie's Automotive, our #1 goal is complete customer satisfaction. Every day, with every customer, we focus on providing high-quality auto repair, coupled with top-notch automotive service. With countless five-star reviews, we are proud of our reputation as one of the most trustworthy auto repair shops in Palm Desert, Indian Wells, Rancho Mirage, La Quinta, and surrounding cities.

Call Your Friendly Service Advisor Today! [phone]

www.ozziesautomotive.com

[ozziesauto]

Tips on TPS (The Throttle Position Sensor)

When you step on the accelerator, you expect your vehicle to speed up, not slow down.  But, what if it doesn’t?  That can be a big problem.

The answer may be a problem with the sensor that helps your vehicle determine that the proper mix of air and fuel for your engine.  It's called the TPS, or Throttle Position Sensor. Here's how it works.

Your vehicle’s throttle opens when you need more air to accelerate and closes when you need less.  The throttle position sensor does pretty much what its name says: it senses the position of the throttle.  That reading, along with air flow measurements, is sent to the vehicle's computer.  The computer factors in air temperature, how fast the engine is turning over, and air flow to determine how much fuel to supply the engine.  If everything's working correctly, you'll get the acceleration you want along with the fuel economy you expect. 

However, if the TPS fails, your vehicle won’t accelerate properly or have the power you expect when you push down on the accelerator pedal.  Your vehicle could even accelerate on its own.  Another symptom could be reduced engine power.  You also may see your Check Engine light come on. 

If you notice any of these signs, it's wise to get over to see your NAPA AutoCare Center soon.  When your TPS stops working correctly, it can leave you behind the wheel of a vehicle that is not safe to drive. In case of a total TPS failure, most vehicles have a "limp home" or "limp in" mode that will allow you to at least get off the road to a safer spot. 

Your qualified technician can diagnose the problem and install the correct TPS replacement part.  The new unit may need to be reprogramed to work in harmony with other software in your vehicle. 

Let's face it; computers are a big part of today's vehicles.  It's important to keep them—and the sensors that provide them information—working right so you can travel safely down the road. 

Ozzie's Automotive 74894 Lennon Place Suite F2 Palm Desert, CA 92260 760.773.5939

www.ozziesautomotive.com

[ozziesauto]

True Alternative to the Dealer

Looking for an alternative to the dealership? Ozzie's Automotive is the answer. Supported by a team of technicians who receive ongoing training in automotive technology and auto repair services, we offer dealership quality knowledge and experience, coupled with the local small business atmosphere. We're committed to auto repair and serving you with quality and value. We may not be related, but you'll feel like family.

Call Your Friendly Service Advisor Today! [phone]

At Ozzie's Automotive, our #1 goal is complete customer satisfaction. Every day, with every customer, we focus on providing high-quality auto repair, coupled with top-notch automotive service. With countless five-star reviews, we are proud of our reputation as one of the most trustworthy auto repair shops in Palm Desert, Indian Wells, Rancho Mirage, La Quinta, and surrounding cities.

www.ozziesautomotive.com

[ozziesauto]

Item Most Stolen from Vehicles

What item is most often stolen from vehicles? Is it: (A) Stereo (B) Wheels (C) Air Bag (D) DVD System Well, if you said stereo – you used to be right. But airbags have now surpassed stereos as the biggest target for theft – approximately 50,000 a year nationally in the United States. New airbags cost about $1,000 for Palm Desert but go for $50 to $200 on the black market. Stolen airbags are making their way back into vehicles that have been in an accident in Palm Desert. Of course, the danger to the consumer of having a stolen airbag installed is that you can never be sure what may have previously affected them and if they will work right when you need them. There are reports that 1 in 25 airbag replacements are stolen or salvaged airbags – or no airbag is installed at all. That is definitely a part you don't want to take a chance with, so we recommend following the following guidelines:

Use a reputable collision repair center like Ozzie's Automotive in Palm Desert that employs ASE certified mechanics.

Inspect the invoice to ensure that the Palm Desert repair shop purchased the airbag from a CA manufacturer, dealer or recycler.

If you can inspect the airbag prior to installation, it should be packaged in a sealed container from the manufacturer or recycler.

You will see the SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) light when you first start your vehicle up. This tells you that the airbag system is activated. If you do not see the SRS light, there is a problem with the airbag system. Give us a call. Ozzie's Automotive 74894 Lennon Place Suite F2 Palm Desert, CA 92260 760.773.5939

www.ozziesautomotive.com

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Committed to Customer Satisfaction

At Ozzie's Automotive, our #1 goal is complete customer satisfaction. Every day, with every customer, we focus on providing high-quality auto repair, coupled with top-notch automotive service. With countless five-star reviews, we are proud of our reputation as one of the most trustworthy auto repair shops in Palm Desert, Indian Wells, Rancho Mirage, La Quinta, and surrounding cities.

Call Your Friendly Service Advisor Today! [phone]

www.ozziesautomotive.com

[ozziesauto]

Fuel System

I’d like to give you a quick overview of the fuel system.  It starts with the fuel tank.  The fuel pump is located inside the tank and pumps fuel out to the engine.  Somewhere along the way is a fuel filter whose job is to filter out dirt before it hits the engine.  Then there’s the fuel intake system and the fuel injectors that deliver the fuel to be burned in the engine.

Our focus is to discuss how to make the various components of your fuel system work well and last as long as possible.  Now the best thing you can do for your fuel pump is to use good quality fuel.  Top tier gas typically has fewer contaminants and more detergents to keep things clean.  Using good gas, or adding a fuel system cleaner to your tank, can prolong the life of your fuel pump.  Because the fuel pump lives inside your tank, it’s expensive to replace, so helping it last as long as possible is a worthwhile goal.

The fuel filter catches dirt and contaminants.  When it’s clogged, your engine may not be able to get enough fuel and could sputter.  Many fuel filters have a bypass valve that allows unfiltered fuel past when the filter’s clogged.  That prevents your engine from dying while you’re driving, but it can’t protect your engine from dirty fuel.  Check your owner’s manual or talk with your service advisor about when you should replace your fuel filter.

Now fuel will cause gum and varnish to build up in the fuel intake system.  A professional fuel system cleaning will remove the gunk to keep fuel flowing freely and help prevent contamination from reaching your fuel injectors and your engine.

Fuel injectors squirt fuel into the engine.  The fuel must be delivered in a precise amount, at a precise time, under precise pressure and in a precise pattern.  Pressure can range from 45 pounds per square inch to 45,000 pounds per square inch depending on the engine.  As you may guess, fuel injectors cost a lot.  Allowing them to get gummed up will not only hurt your performance and fuel economy, it will cause the injectors to wear out much more quickly than they should. 

A professional fuel system cleaning will keep injectors clean and working correctly.  It’ll also clean deposits from the inside of the combustion chamber and off the intake valves giving you optimum performance and mileage.

Check with your service advisor and see when he recommends you get a fuel system cleaning.

Give us a call

Ozzie's Automotive 74894 Lennon Place Suite F2 Palm Desert, CA 92260 760.773.5939

www.ozziesautomotive.com

[ozziesauto]

A Trusted Local Business

You can find us tucked away behind the Hovley post office in Palm Desert near another local favorite, CJ's diner.

Whether your vehicle needs a minor tune-up or major overhaul, our skilled service technicians and advisors will save you valuable time and headache by quickly diagnosing and pinpointing solutions to problems.  We're your one-stop auto shop.

Call Your Friendly Service Advisor Today! [phone]

At Ozzie's Automotive, our #1 goal is complete customer satisfaction. Every day, with every customer, we focus on providing high-quality auto repair, coupled with top-notch automotive service. With countless five-star reviews, we are proud of our reputation as one of the most trustworthy auto repair shops in Palm Desert, Indian Wells, Rancho Mirage, La Quinta, and surrounding cities.

[ozziesauto]

Why Do They Call it a Dashboard? (Instrument Panel Warning Lights)

Ever wonder where they came up with the term "dashboard" for that part of your vehicle that sits behind the steering wheel?

That name began back before cars were even invented.  People used to travel by horse and buggy, and streets weren't as well built as they are today.  On a muddy road (which was sometimes just a couple of ruts alongside a field), it wasn't unusual for those inside the buggy to have mud and stones "dashed" (knocked, thrown, or hurled) in their direction. 

So those who built carriages began installing a board to protect them.  That became known as the dashboard. The word carriage got shortened to car, and the dashboard is sometimes shortened to dash.  Today, the dashboard sits behind and below the windshield that houses various controls and instruments.

In addition to the speedometer, tachometer, and gas gauge, there are warning lights you need to pay attention to on your dashboard and instrument panel. (You may have gauges for some of these, but it's still important for you to keep an eye on them.)  Here are some examples:

Oil pressure—This lets you know if you have had a drop in oil pressure in your engine.  Low oil pressure means your engine parts aren't getting lubricated as they should, and this can cause serious damage. Call your service advisor immediately; you may damage your vehicle if you drive it in this condition any further.

Check Engine light—If you see this one (it usually looks like an engine), it means one or more sensors in your vehicle has detected an abnormal situation.  Again, you should have this checked out as soon as possible.  A technician at your service facility can read a code stored in your vehicle that will point towards the issue.  If the Check Engine Light is flashing, there is something wrong that could lead to serious damage – so get it checked out right away.

Brake light—If this is illuminated, your parking brake may be on, or there may be a more serious problem like low brake fluid or hydraulic system issues.  Check your parking brake and if it isn't on and the light is, make sure to get it checked asap. 

Tire pressure—Newer vehicles have tire pressure monitors (TPMS) built in that will tell you if any of your tires are over or underinflated.  Both conditions need to be checked out.  If the TPMS light is flashing, the system itself needs attention.

Of course, there a many more warning lights.  You should get your vehicle checked as so as you can.  Here are some critical warning lights for which it is recommended that you have your vehicle towed to your AutoCare Canter:  Oil Light, Temp(erature) Light, Charging (Batt) Light, and Brake Light if pedal performance is low.  These warning lights indicate a condition which could cause serious engine damage, leave you stranded, or with unsafe brakes.

Things were sure simpler back in the horse and carriage days, but it's a good thing today's dashboard can tell you all these things about your complicated vehicle.

We at NAPA AutoCare want to make sure your driving experience is trouble- and worry-free.  Consult us for all of your vehicle maintenance and repair needs.

Ozzie's Automotive

74894 Lennon Place Suite F2

Palm Desert, CA 92260

760.773.5939

www.ozziesautomotive.com

[ozziesauto]

Since 2007

Ozzie's Automotive has been providing quality auto repairs and automotive service for neighbors and friends in Palm Desert, Ca and surrounding cities.  We are a family-owned and operated business that takes pride in delivering the most honest, professional, and highest quality automotive service and repair, and smog check.  We may not be the cheapest, but we are the best!  Your one-stop auto shop.  Auto Care is Our Passion!

Call Your Friendly Service Advisor Today! [phone]

At Ozzie's Automotive, our #1 goal is complete customer satisfaction. Every day, with every customer, we focus on providing high-quality auto repair, coupled with top-notch automotive service. With countless five-star reviews, we are proud of our reputation as one of the most trustworthy auto repair shops in Palm Desert, Indian Wells, Rancho Mirage, La Quinta, and surrounding cities.

www.ozziesautomotive.com

[ozziesauto]

Under Pressure: Your TPMS System

Flats, blow outs, skids and longer stopping distances can all be the result of driving around CA on underinflated tires. Now, it's hard to tell when a radial tire is underinflated but your friendly and knowledgeable Ozzie's Automotive can help you. The tire may not look low until it gets below 20 pounds – which is significantly underinflated.

Your newer vehicle or light truck might be equipped with a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS). This technology has been used by race car drivers for years. They are able to head off problems from underinflation by closely monitoring tire pressure on the track.

Obviously, TMPS systems don't come free for Palm Desert car buyers. U.S. government studies have estimated the net costs of the TPMS system itself, maintaining the system, replacement of worn or broken parts and tire repair cost increases. The costs are partially offset for Palm Desert drivers by savings in fuel and tire wear. There's also a saving in property damage and travel delay for people in Palm Desert. The net cost is estimated to be between $27 and $100. The government predicts fewer fatal accidents. They estimate that is will cost between three and nine million dollars for every life saved. This new safety equipment will help Palm Desert motorists avoid the most common vehicle failure and possibly a catastrophic accident.

Ozzie's Automotive 74894 Lennon Place Suite F2 Palm Desert, CA 92260 760.773.5939

www.ozziesautomotive.com

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