Essential Summer Vehicle Maintenance Tips From Trusted Saskatoon Auto Repair & Service Shop Epic Auto and Driveline

21. Jun 2023 Admin Saskatoon Auto Repair & Service, Trusted Tips

Epic Auto and Driveline is a one-stop Saskatoon automotive and tire shop for domestic and import cars, light trucks, and SUVs. You can be confident knowing that they always take pride in their work and take good care of their customers. Epic Automotive and Driveline is a Trusted Saskatoon Auto Repair and Service Shop. In this tip, they share the importance of maintaining your vehicle's driveline.

Essential Summer Vehicle Maintenance Tips

As the summer season approaches, it's crucial to ensure that your vehicle is in optimal condition to handle the warm weather and long road trips. Regular maintenance can help prevent breakdowns, improve fuel efficiency, and increase overall safety. In this blog post, we'll outline some essential summer vehicle maintenance tips to keep your car running smoothly throughout the season.

Check the Cooling System:

The cooling system plays a vital role in preventing your engine from overheating during the hot summer months. Inspect the coolant level and ensure it's at the recommended level. Consider flushing and refilling the coolant if it hasn't been done recently. Additionally, inspect the radiator and hoses for any leaks or damage.

Test the Air Conditioning System:

Driving in scorching heat without a functional air conditioning system can be uncomfortable and potentially dangerous. Before the summer heat hits, have your air conditioning system inspected by a professional. They can check for refrigerant leaks, clean the system, and ensure it's functioning correctly.

Inspect the Tires:

Proper tire maintenance is crucial for safety and fuel efficiency. Check the tire pressure regularly, including the spare tire. Underinflated tires can overheat and wear out more quickly, while overinflated tires can lead to poor traction. Additionally, inspect the tread depth and look for signs of uneven wear or damage. Consider rotating the tires if necessary.

Replace Worn Wiper Blades:

Summer showers can be sudden and intense, so having functioning wiper blades is essential for visibility. Inspect your wiper blades for any signs of wear, such as cracks or streaks. If they are worn out, replace them with new ones to ensure clear visibility during summer rainstorms.

Check and Top Up Fluid Levels:

Fluids play a critical role in the proper functioning of your vehicle. Check the oil level and change it if needed, following the manufacturer's recommendations. Additionally, inspect the transmission fluid, brake fluid, and power steering fluid levels. Topping up or replacing fluids as necessary will keep your vehicle running smoothly.

Test the Battery:

Hot weather can put a strain on your vehicle's battery. Check the battery terminals for corrosion, and clean them if necessary. Test the battery's charge using a voltmeter or have a professional check it for you. If your battery is more than a few years old or shows signs of weakness, consider replacing it to avoid unexpected breakdowns.

Clean and Protect the Exterior:

Summer often means increased exposure to sunlight, dust, and road debris. Regularly wash your vehicle to remove dirt and grime, paying attention to the undercarriage. Apply a protective wax or sealant to the paintwork to prevent sun damage and maintain its shine.

Summer vehicle maintenance is essential for ensuring a smooth and enjoyable driving experience during the warmer months. By following these tips, you can minimize the risk of breakdowns, improve fuel efficiency, and enhance overall safety. Remember to consult your vehicle's owner manual for specific maintenance recommendations, and consider seeking professional assistance for complex tasks. With proper care, your car will be ready to hit the road and make the most of the summer season.

Epic also offers financing. If you need vehicle parts or car service but don't have the immediate funds to pay for it, take advantage of a monthly payment plan using the value of your vehicle through their financing partner.

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Epic Automotive and Driveline is a Trusted Saskatoon Auto Repair and Service Shop

The Importance of Maintaining Your Vehicle's Driveline From Trusted Saskatoon Auto Repair and Service Shop Epic Auto and Driveline

21. Jun 2023 Admin Saskatoon Auto Repair & Service, Trusted Tips

The Importance of Maintaining Your Vehicle's Driveline

The term "driveline" refers to the components in a vehicle that transfer power from the engine to the wheels, enabling the vehicle to move. It includes various parts that work together to transmit power and torque. The driveline components can vary depending on the type of vehicle, but here are some common elements:

Engine: The engine is the power source of the vehicle, typically fueled by gasoline, diesel, or alternative fuels. It generates rotational power that needs to be transmitted to the wheels.
Transmission: The transmission is responsible for transmitting power from the engine to the wheels at different gear ratios. It allows the driver to select the appropriate gear for the vehicle's speed and load conditions. Common types of transmissions include manual, automatic, and continuously variable transmissions (CVT).
Driveshaft: The driveshaft, also known as the propeller shaft, is a rotating shaft that transfers torque from the transmission to the differential or directly to the wheels in some cases. It is commonly found in rear-wheel-drive and four-wheel-drive vehicles.
Differential: The differential is a gearbox located between the driveshaft and the wheels. It allows the wheels to rotate at different speeds while receiving torque from the driveshaft. This is important when the vehicle is turning, as the wheels on the outside of the turn need to travel a greater distance than those on the inside.
Axles: Axles are shafts that connect the differential to the wheels. They transmit power from the differential to the wheels while also supporting the weight of the vehicle. In rear-wheel-drive vehicles, there are separate axles for each rear wheel. In front-wheel-drive vehicles, the front axles also serve as the driveshafts.
Transfer Case (in 4WD and AWD vehicles): In four-wheel-drive (4WD) and all-wheel-drive (AWD) vehicles, a transfer case is used to distribute power between the front and rear wheels. It allows the driver to engage or disengage the 4WD or AWD mode, providing increased traction in off-road or slippery conditions.

These are some of the key driveline components in a vehicle. Each component plays a crucial role in transferring power from the engine to the wheels, allowing the vehicle to move efficiently and smoothly. The design and configuration of the driveline can vary depending on factors such as the type of vehicle, its drivetrain layout (front-wheel drive, rear-wheel drive, all-wheel drive), and intended use (off-road, sports car, etc.).

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Epic Automotive and Driveline is a Trusted Saskatoon Auto Repair and Service Shop

Trusted Saskatoon Brags about Epic Auto & Driveline Your Trusted Saskatoon Auto Repair , Service & Tire shop

21. Oct 2022 Trusted Saskatoon Saskatoon Auto Repair & Service, Saskatoon Tires, Trusted Brag Blogs, Trusted Partner News

The Trusted Saskatoon Team is delighted to welcome our newest Trusted Saskatoon Partner, Epic Automotive and Driveline to the Saskatoon Tire and the Saskatoon Auto Repair & Service Categories. Epic Auto and Repair Service is your go-to Trusted Saskatoon Tire and Auto Repair shop. They are waiting to help you with tires, maintenance auto repair services on all make and models of vehicles. Get to know all they do and meet the people behind the business in our latest Trusted Saskatoon article welcoming a new partner to our Saskatoon community of locally owned businesses operated with integrity!

Meet Epic Automotive & Driveline

Bob Harder and Shelly McConnell-Harder have nearly 4 decades in the automotive industry. They are Co-owners of Epic Auto and they're using their experiences to operate this exceptional local business. They found a great partner and general manager in Mitch Quesnel, a colleague from Bob’s days in the industry at Ens.

“Having the good and bad has afforded me the insight to ensure Epic will be a company that focuses on creating and sustaining a strong relationship with my customers.”- said Bob Harder

Walking into Epic for the very first time, we were greeted with an authentic and warm welcome. We noticed immediately how fresh, bright and sparkling clean the reception area was. This speaks volumes, especially to both of us women, as the auto industry has a reputation as one of the ‘least trustworthy categories ‘. How often do you walk into an auto or tire shop and feel overwhelmed by bad smells, dirty coffeemakers, and piles of clutter? This is not at all what you will experience at Epic. What that indicated to us, is that they are organized, that they prioritize safety, and that they are ready to help. Clearly, they care about the first impression they are making and we know that first impressions mean a lot. Epic Auto is clearly prepared and ready to help with all and any of your Auto Repair and Tire issues.

The goal at Epic is to have the quickest turnaround time possible, this is especially important for their commercial clients. They understand that when a vehicle is in the shop it’s not making the company any money. They are committed to trying their hardest to make sure that their customers leave with a smile and share that they had a positive experience with friends and family.

When asked by a reporter at the StarPhoenix in a recent article about how Epic got its name, Bob replied,

“We agonized over the name, to tell you the truth. How it came about, we finally said, we think we have the chance to create something epic, we just need to come up with a good name. Suddenly it was like, Oh, maybe ‘Epic’ is a good name!”

Picture: Saskatoon Star Phoenix.- New Faces New Places

We asked Mitch Quesnel to share the career journey that led him to be the Managing Partner at Epic.

I started in the Automotive industry in 2007 working as a lot attendant, ironicly it was Bob that hired me for that first job! Aftre a while I was given the opportunity to move into the shipping and receiving department, which I did for a couple of years, then I moved into a parts advisor role, a position I stayed in for 15 years. When Bob and Shelley gave me the opportunity to work with them as a Managing Partner At Epic Automotive & Driveline I was excited and I started at Epic Automotive & Driveline at the end of Aug 2022. I am inspired by taking on new challenges and I enjoy putting in the hard work!! .

How Does Trusted select Trusted Saskatoon businesses to partner with?

We look for locally accountable businesses that have a reputation for quality-driven excellence in the Saskatoon market.
Customers, clients, and suppliers nominate businesses they are impressed with.
We survey a number of their past customers personally.
We check the business's online reputation and we speak to business references
All past customers we speak to are surveyed - it is a pass or a fail!
We ensure any required licenses, qualifications, WCB, and insurances are valid and up to date.

What Did Epic's Customers Say About Their Experience?

“I’ve had a great experience with Epic. My company uses them for our fleet vehicles. They are very accommodating, especially getting us in on the short notice. The vehicle is out as soon as they can. I’ve also taken my personal vehicle there a few times. They caught a lot of stuff that the dealership I go to was sloughing off. ‘Oh, everything looks good. Jordan- Saskatoon

“I know the owner, Bob Harder. They have a really good knowledgeable crew. We have our corporate vehicles serviced there and the pricing has been so good. It’s not like other garages. The customer service is fantastic and they haven't charged me a nickel more. - Office Solutions, Mark

We encourage you to visit Epic Auto’s Trusted Saskatoon listings to read more customer reviews, see their full range of services, and then if you want more information or to book check out their website.
They are here to help, and all of their clients shared that they are professional and invested in customer satisfaction- they are Saskatoon automotive experts, you can trust!

Epic Automotive and Driveline is a Trusted Saskatoon Auto Repair and Service Shop
AND Epic is a Trusted Saskatoon Tire Shop

Trusted Saskatoon Auto Body Experts at Western Millennium Collision Share 5 Tips for Safe Driving!

31. May 2022 Admin Saskatoon Auto Repair & Service, Trusted Tips

At Western Millennium Collision, they focus on three things: quality, convenience, and service. Quality implies that they maintain state-of-the-art tools and equipment so that their highly experienced technicians have all the latest tools and technology to ensure that your vehicle receives the finest quality and extraordinary workmanship. Convenience is all about valuing your time and simplifying the process of having your car fixed from the moment you contact them. Their shop is large enough to accommodate any size of vehicle, so that you can drive into the estimator for a complete evaluation of the damages to determine how fast the repairs can be done and how much it will cost, in one easy step. Western Millennium Collision Is a Trusted Saskatoon Collision Repair & Auto Body Shop.

5 TIPS FOR SAFE DRIVING

Owning a car is one of the biggest purchases most people will make. However, unlike owning a house, a car is not an appreciating investment. It is a depreciating asset which means it loses value over time. Here are 5 tips to drive safe.

1. KEEP A WELL-MAINTAINED CAR

Every day you take your vehicle on the road, you contribute to its wear and tear. You need to be a responsible car owner in order to extend the value of your vehicle. Maintaining a car is more than just keeping it clean. You have to make sure it is in fine, road-worthy condition, some key tips are:

Check water levels every 2 weeks.
Make sure the tires are inflated to the proper temperature.
Never let the gas run down to near-empty levels.
Check the levels of the following car fluids: engine oil, brake fluid, coolant, washer fluid, radiator, transmission, and power steering.
Keep track of your car battery expiration date.
Make sure the power windows, rear, and side mirrors, and dashboard lights are working.

If you notice something wrong or unusual with your car, don’t take any chances. Bring it right away to your nearest mechanic or car repair shop.

2. WEAR YOUR SEAT BELT

It seems odd that in this day when commercials and reminders of the importance of using the seat belt are on rotation on every type of media, some drivers and passengers still refuse to buckle up. Don’t be complacent because your car has air safety bags. Car accidents remain potentially deadly even with increased safety features.

This is especially important for passengers who stay in the back seat. If the car gets rear-ended by another vehicle that is travelling at a high speed, the passenger becomes a projectile who could either hit the driver or go through the windshield. Either proposition should be enough to make you put on your seat belt the moment you enter the car.

3. KEEP COOL ON THE ROAD

A car is a heavy machine often made of solid steel. It is a marvel of engineering and the latest technology. It can give one a sense of empowerment and invincibility. Behind all the computer processing and gadgetry that goes on inside your car, the human organism remains in complete control. Your car will function the way you want it to function. That is why incidents of road rage and physical altercations happen on a daily basis. Some drivers let the sense of empowerment get to their heads. When another driver does something that makes you feel disrespected, it is not worth your time and energy to find ways to respond in kind. Not all drivers are of sound mind. Don’t be one of them.

4. MASTER DEFENSIVE DRIVING

You should focus explicitly on what you can control from your end. There are drivers who are not well versed in proper driving etiquette or who have a clear understanding of the rules of the road. In some countries, when you signal that you want to move to the right lane, the car behind will suddenly accelerate to make sure you don’t get ahead of them. Then there are drivers who don’t understand right-of-way and just careen their vehicle through an intersection.

There could be other reasons why the driver handles their car that way. They could be a beginner; there could be an emergency or it’s just someone who is having a bad day. It is not your concern to find out why drivers drive the way they do. Your only focus is to make sure you practice safe, defensive driving.

5. DON'T TEXT AND DRIVE

There is a market for apps that prevent people from texting or answering phones while driving. Why? Because multi-tasking while driving is proven to be very dangerous; it takes your focus away from the road, others on the road, and from handling your car properly.

This is the reason why many countries have passed laws that prohibit using your mobile phone while driving. In some countries and provinces, the penalties can be very severe. They include indefinite suspension of driving privileges, a monetary penalty, and even jail time. Another example of irresponsible multi-tasking is grooming while driving. Women are often caught putting on makeup or fixing their hair while their cars are still in transit. Men are sometimes caught putting on their neckties or shaving while driving.

When you’re driving, you should focus only on the road that is in front of you and if you get in any collision or accident, contact Western Millennium Collision for all your vehicle repair needs.

Western Millennium Collision Is a Trusted Saskatoon Collision Repair & Auto Body Shop.

Trusted Saskatoon Tire and Auto Repair & Service Winter Car Maintenance Tips

5. Dec 2019 Trusted Saskatoon Saskatoon Auto Repair & Service, Saskatoon Tires, Trusted Tips

Be Safe On The Roads This Winter

Safe driving is always important, but being on the road during winter warrants extra precautions. That's why we have written up our most important tips to stay safe in hazardous, wintery weather conditions.

1) Avoid slipping and sliding

Ensure your vehicle is ready for Canada’s changing winter weather, by switching your all-season tires to winter ones before the temperature drops below 7°C. Winter tires optimize the performance and safety of winter driving. The braking distance of a winter tire could be up to two vehicle lengths shorter than the braking distance of an all-season tire.

2) Replace Worn Tires

It’s extremely important to check your tires each winter season because worn or bald tires can be very dangerous. Tires have tread wear indicator bars moulded into them. A solid bar of rubber across the width of the tread means it’s time to replace the tire.

3) Make Sure Your Tires Are Correctly Inflated

For every 5°C drop in temperature, tires lose one pound of air pressure. To ensure optimum fuel efficiency and prevent irregular or premature wear, tire inflation should be checked monthly. Several tire manufacturers recommend that tire pressure should be higher in the winter, so check to see whether your tire pressure should be adjusted accordingly.

4) Fill Your Trunk With A Winter Survival Kit

Winter weather can be very unpredictable, so make sure you have a winter survival kit in your trunk in case you get stuck in bad conditions. Every car should have a scraper for the windshield, a small shovel, candles, and warm clothing such as a winter jacket, gloves and a hat. Also, make sure you bring a cell phone with you on every trip in case you need to call for help.

5) Defrost Your Vehicle Properly

Although it takes you a few extra minutes, make sure to properly clean your windows and remove any excess snow from the top of your vehicle. Ice and snow that is left on your vehicle can obstruct your view, causing potentially dangerous situations.

6) Top Up Your Fluids

Wintery road conditions can cause your windshield to get dirty quickly, so make sure your windshield washer fluid is filled up. Also, ensure your gas tank is at least half full, as on very cold days the condensation in the tank can freeze and cause problems.

7) Buckle Up & Adjust To Driving Conditions

Make sure you are always buckled up and adjust your driving to what the conditions are like. You will put yourself and others at risk if you do not change your driving style to suit the wintery conditions.

Trusted Tips & Resources