Archive for February 2023Differential ServicePosted February 26, 2023 10:07 AMWhen you're driving and turn a corner, you probably aren't aware of all that's going on with your wheels. The outside wheels have a longer distance to travel than the inside wheels, so there are gears that allow the wheels to go at different speeds when you turn. That set of gears is called a differential. In front-wheel drive vehicles, it's by the transmission and called a transaxle. Rear-wheel drive vehicles have the differential, naturally, on the rear axle. Many all-wheel and four-wheel drives add a center differential since power has to go to the front and rear wheels. (Some newer vehicles power wheels with electric motors, but that's a whole different story.) Time and distance traveled eventually can take their toll on the differential, and you may notice some noises you hadn't heard when your vehicle was newer. Sometimes you'll hear a whir that might change in pitch when you turn. You may hear clicking sounds when you're moving. Others describe rumbling sounds coming from underneath during a turn. Another symptom of possible differential problems may be vibrations or shakes the faster you go. All of these could be signs that you have problems with a differential. One common cause of differential problems is the gears aren't getting enough lubrication. These can all have serious effects on your driving. You may find it hard to turn, or your wheels may lock up. That could put you or drivers around you in a dangerous position. It's better to take care of differential problems before they get too serious. Bring in your vehicle so we can have a technician check yours out. They can see if there are any differential fluid leaks or failing gaskets. In some cases, we may recommend your differential fluid be replaced. And if there are any mechanical issues, some components may need to be replaced as well. When your differential is maintained, you'll be doing your vehicle a good turn. Hans Imports Ethics of Automotive Repair in North KingstownPosted February 19, 2023 11:19 AM
For example, it you take your car in for a grinding noise when you step on the brakes, you may just think you need new brake pads. After the inspection, the technician at Hans Imports says that you have a cracked rotor and need to replace it.
Of course, the technician has the burden of making ethical recommendations and properly educating their customers. For the customer, if you are uncomfortable with a recommendation, ask some questions. More information is always a good thing. Hans Imports Gas Smell! (What Causes Gasoline Odors)Posted February 12, 2023 9:04 AMIf you've ever walked into your garage and noticed it smelled like gasoline, pay attention. Gasoline can be dangerous, both from the health problems fumes can cause and the fire danger gasoline presents. There are many things that can cause a vehicle to give off a gasoline odor. One of the easiest to track down is the gas cap. It could be missing or it doesn't seal well any more (they do wear out). That can also cause the Check Engine light to light up, so those are clues to tell your service advisor when you take it in for diagnosis. Another thing that can cause the Check Engine light to come on and produce a gasoline smell is the fuel filler neck. It's the part that goes from the place you put your fuel in to the gas tank. Over time, these can wear out and fail (they're made out of rubber or metal). They can leak gasoline, too. It's always a good idea to check the garage floor for any gasoline puddles. Note the location of the puddle in relation to the vehicle. If it's near the back, that's possibly the fuel filler neck or the gas tank leaking. In the middle of the vehicle? May be fuel lines. Near the front? Could be fuel injectors (or carburetor if you have one) or fuel pump. There are other causes of gas odors, and you need an expert to figure out the source soon. Gasoline leaks are nothing to play around with. Gasoline is flammable, potentially explosive and its fumes can damage your lungs. A trained technician can pinpoint the cause and get your garage back to smelling like a normal garage again. Hans Imports Introduction to Diesels for North Kingstown, RIPosted February 5, 2023 7:14 AM
Every year, manufacturers introduce new diesel models. Look for diesels in domestic light trucks, SUVs and passenger cars. Import brands have plans to bring more of their outstanding diesel engines to RI as well. Hans Imports | ||
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What our clients are saying about us
We have established longterm and stable partnerships with various clients thanks to our excellence in solving their automotive needs!
Very impressed with Han's Imports. Did a nice job with maintenance on my BMW and my wife's Benz. I also appreciate the thorough check of the rest of the car as part of their 1st look at the cars. I'll be back.
Anyone who dumps on this auto repair shop should literally start driving a horse and carriage. What people don't understand is that when you bring in older import vehicles from the north east United States they are prone to rust deterioration do to climatic factors. As a result, many parts are harder to replace, many need to be fabricated and even more common is the rarity of older European models (which drives the price of parts up as well as renders low availability). I've been an automotive repair technician (ASE certification, various big name certifications and even fabricated parts whilst working in small shops) for quite some time. As well, I've even taught Automotive Repair as a core coarse at the secondary level. All of that said, I'm quite certain my opinion holds merit. Thus, I can honestly say that Omar is an absolute genius. I run a small shop in a rural area and seek advice from the owner of Hans Imports (Omar). This goes beyond the scope of older European models. I often probe Omar for repair strategies, knowledge and diagnostic information on newer Imports. For what its worth, you're in good hands with Hans Imports in North Kingstown. Any of the negative cockamamie complaints are clearly the result of someone thinking they are above the knowledge, experience as well as expertise of the working man!