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When it comes to doing what’s best for your vehicle, you can’t listen to everything you hear. We’re sure that you’ve heard the myths about vehicle maintenance, but the auto experts at German Performance is here to shed some light on what’s real and what’s not.

• If you don’t hear or feel anything out of the ordinary, then everything is fine: This is one myth that proves to be the downfall of many vehicles. Just because there’s no apparent sign of distress, doesn’t mean that there’s not an underlying problem. Be sure to schedule appointments for regular vehicle maintenance to ensure that your vehicle remains in good condition for years to come.
• Premium gas is better than regular gas: It depends on your vehicle. Premium gasoline is made for high compression engines and helps alleviate pre-ignition issues. Most people have vehicles that only need regular gas and wouldn’t necessarily benefit from using higher octane fuel. So although putting premium fuel in your vehicle wouldn’t do any harm, it would end up being a waste of money for most car owners.
• You MUST get your oil changed once every 3,000 miles: Rewind a few decades back, this would be true. With modern engine designs, most vehicles can go for at least 7,000 miles before needing an oil change and some even more.

Trust the auto specialists at German Performance to answer all of your vehicle questions and to debunk those crazy vehicle maintenance myths. Contact us today at (805) 466-3236.

One of the easiest ways to maintain your car is by getting an oil change. While most cars don’t require an oil change very often, it still tends to be overlooked. In order to have a car that’s in great condition, changing the oil in your car at least every 3,000 to 5,000 miles will definitely help. If you’ve forgotten to change the oil or are unsure of when your oil was last changed, there are a few signs that will let you know when you need to change the oil in your car.

Oil Change is Taking Place.

Oil Light Is On

Cars usually have a light that comes on your dash when you need an oil change. If you have an older vehicle, the check engine light might come on. When you are unsure of when you oil was last changed, having your oil light come is a great indicator.

Engine Noises

If your engine is making noises that are out of the ordinary or there are grinding noises, it might be time to change your oil. Engine oil is used to lubricate the engine, making it run easier. If your oil hasn’t been changed in a while, it will cause your engine to work harder, making it more susceptible to damages.

Color of Oil

Car oil that is new and fresh will have a really light consistency. If you check the oil on your dipstick and it’s a darker color, it’s time to get your oil changed.

If you need auto repair services in Atascadero, CA, give the experts at German Performance a call at (805) 466-3236 today.

When your car is rolling down the road, your suspension is there for you. This system keeps your car balanced and allows for stable driving. Without it, your car would not function. So, how can you tell when this system needs a little bit of TLC. When it comes to needing service, suspension systems have obvious signs that will tell you it is time to take your car to the shop. 

Signs Your Suspension Is Failing

Sign #1: Bottoming Out

When suspension springs wear, they allow for a lot of give in your vehicle’s handling. One of the most visible points of this is when you drive through a dip. Does your car bottom out? This means your springs are worn and need replacement.

Sign #2 Bouncing Down The Road

Similar to bottoming out, bouncing is another sign of spring wear. You’ve seen on TV and in movies when people bounce a car up and down. If your car continues to bounce after this is done, there is a good chance your springs are telling you it is time for service.

Sign #3 Tilting

Your suspension springs keep your car balanced and even as you drive down the road. When you get in do you notice your car leaning toward one side? This means your springs are wearing unevenly or you may even have a collapsed spring.

Sign #4 Tire Wear

We all know to replace our tires after a certain amount of wear, but what should you do when it is uneven? Have your local auto mechanic inspect it. Uneven wear on tires could indicate that there is a larger problem on hand with your suspension alignment.

Have more questions on your car’s suspension? Notice any of the above signs? Call German Performance at (805) 466-3236 for your service today!

If you travel a lot, it can be difficult to prevent having to constantly return to the gas station to fill up. These are a few ways you can improve on how much fuel your vehicle needs to run properly.

When was the last time you checked the pressure in your tires? Low tire pressure not only increases the chances of tire trouble leaving stranded, but it also makes the engine work harder in order to move your vehicle. Keeping your tires at the correct pressure will keep you safe on the road and save you money on fuel.

Replacing the air filter in your vehicle can make a difference too. A dirty air filter will reduce the amount of airflow that makes it into the engine. If your engine isn’t performing well, extra fuel will be used to help your vehicle run.

Stick with the speed limit to avoid tickets but also ensure your car is running at it’s best performance level. A lot of vehicles are built to operate efficiently between 45 – 60 mph. Speeding along the highway will increase engine use and use up more fuel too.

Taking your vehicle in for regular maintenance can improve engine performance as well. If you need automotive maintenance in Atascadero, CA or the surrounding area, contact German Performance today. Our ASE certified automotive mechanics can ensure that your vehicle is running in the best condition possible. Call (805) 466-3236 to learn more.

No matter what type of vehicle you drive, a tune-up will be necessary sooner or later. Over time, you may need to replace your spark plugs, change filters, a number of other things. This is why getting a regular tune-up from an experienced professional is critical to keep your vehicle in good shape for as long as possible. But some may not know whether or not they need a tune-up. Luckily, the experts at German Performance is here to provide you with a few signs that you can look out for.

• Decreased fuel efficiency: Lower gas mileage isn’t always a sign that your vehicle aging. This could be caused by faulty connections, worn out spark plugs, or dirty filters. A tune -up will remedy this problem.
• Stalling: Although a stalled engine can be contributed to various things, it’s most often caused by the failed attempt of the connectors and spark plugs igniting the fuel. It’s important that you pay attention to when it normally happens. Is it hot or cold outside? Is your air conditioner on? This information will help our mechanic pinpoint the exact source of the problem.
• Suggested Milage: Every vehicle comes with a certain number of miles that the manufacturer recommends to have your vehicle serviced. Typically, the number for older models is 10,000 – 20,000 miles and newer models, as much as 100,000 miles. So even if you haven’t noticed anything abnormal happening with your vehicle, you should still have it checked out if you’re within your manufacturer’s mile points.

So if you ever notice your vehicle showing any of these signs, don’t hesitate to come into German Performance to get your tune-up and get your vehicle back running the way that it should. Give us a call today at (805) 466-3236.

As the holiday season gets closer, it is important to make sure the tires on your vehicle are well maintained for any long drives ahead of you. These are a few things you can do in order to ensure that your tires are in good shape so you stay safe on the road.

Check your tire pressure. Not only are correctly inflated tires safer, they can make a difference on how well your vehicle performs. Driving a car that has low tire pressure can increase the risk of losing control of the vehicle or a tire bursting. The low pressure will decrease your gas mileage as well. The recommended PSI level for your tires should be inside the driver side door or in the owner’s manual. It’s advised to check the pressure in your tires at least once a month – including the spare tire – to make sure they are properly maintained.

Check for uneven tire wear. Low pressure in the tires can cause the treads to wear out more quickly. If your tires are wearing too quickly or unevenly it can decrease traction of the tires while driving making it hazardous to drive in rain or snow. Besides maintaining tire pressure, rotating your tires on a regular schedule can help prevent the treads from become uneven.

Do you need vehicle maintenance in Paso Robles, CA? Whether you need the tires rotated and balanced or you want the car tuned up before a long trip, you can count on the automotive experts at German Performance. Contact us today at (805) 466-3236 for more information about the automotive services we offer.

Your brakes are one of the most important safety features in your vehicle. So proper maintenance is critical. Unfortunately, the brakes are also one of the features that is frequently overlooked by drivers everywhere. If you’re an owner of a vehicle, you should always pay  attention to your brakes and their condition. Here are a few things signs to look out for.

Brake pads are thin – The pads are rub against the rotor and are visible through the spokes of the wheel. Pads are suppose to be at least 1/4 of an inch thick. If you see that they are anything  less than that, it’s time to stop in for a replacement.

Strange noises – Clicking, grinding, or scraping noises are never a good thing. The grinding noise comes from the rotor and caliper rubbing together because the brake pad has completely worn down. In this case, both the rotor and pad need s to be replaced.

Vibration from your brakes – This is normally referred to as “pulsating brakes”. It’s the vibration that  you feel when you press down on your brake and it begins to shake or the feel of constant grabbing. It’s the result of brake pads that have been warped due to heat or ones that are completely worn out.

Your brakes are no joking matter and they all need to be in fully functioning conditions. So when you need your brakes serviced in Atascadero, CA, call German Performance. You can stop in or contact us at (805) 466-3236.

Students are moving back into their dorms, and some are traveling across the country to get there. Stay safe while driving to school and around campus with these tips.

General Maintenance

Before students leave home, especially if they will be driving several hours away, they should check their vehicle’s’ fluids, brakes, and tires (including the spare). A good trick to check your tire’s tread is to use the penny test. Take a penny, with Lincoln’s head pointing down, and stick it wherever the tire tread is most worn. If his head is covered, your tires are good; if you can see his head, though, you should get new tires. You should also check that all the vehicle’s lights and signals are working properly. Be sure to get your scheduled maintenance and any car repairs out of the way before classes start!

In addition to these general tips, make sure your vehicle has all the necessary tools in case of an emergency. You never know when you’ll have a blowout or run out of gas. Your emergency kit should include a first aid kit, flashlight, jack, lug wrench, poncho, tire pressure gauge, tarp, non-perishable food, at least one gallon of water, gloves, a towel, and anything else you might need. If something goes wrong, it’s best to be prepared.

Get Your Inspection and Tags

In the state of California, you must renew your vehicle’s registration every year. Some other states require a vehicle safety inspection as well. Before hitting the road for school, be sure to get these chores done. Nowadays, you can usually renew your registration online, but sometimes you may need to go to your local county Tax Assessor Collector or DMV office. And don’t forget to purchase a campus parking sticker!

Don’t Drink and Drive

Always put your own safety and others’ safety first. College nights are often filled with parties, so make sure you have a safe ride home. Call a taxi or designate a sober friend to drive. Thousands of people die from alcohol-related driving accidents every year. Stay safe and make the smart choice.

To make sure your student’s car is ready for class, schedule a tune-up or repairs today! Call German Performance at (805) 466-3236 for car repairs and more.

So it’s that time of year. Cook outs, hitting the beach, and of course road trips! But you can’t hit the road just yet. You have to make sure that your vehicle is safe and ready to set out on that wide open road. Here are things that you should check before your trip.

Check your brakes

Ineffective brake is the last thing you want to have to deal with while you’re coasting down the highway. A brake check is just the thing you need to make sure your vehicle’s brakes are in A-1 shape.

Check your fluids

Fluids are pretty much the bloodline of your vehicle and is vital to its overall health. This includes antifreeze to regulate the temperature, oil to keep the engine lubricated, washer fluid to maintain visibility, and etc.

Check your tires

The tires are often the problem on a road trip. Making sure that your tires’ pressure and overall condition are good before hitting the road can help you avoid having to call roadside service.

Look over general maintenance and repair

Just like you need your annual medical exams, your car needs its regular check ups. Regularly scheduled maintenance is key to keeping your car in good shape for a longer amount of time. This allows you to find any small problems and resolve them before they become too significant.

So before you set out on your road trip adventure, be sure to stop into German Performance to have your vehicle checked out. Call us at (805) 466-3236 to schedule your appointment today.

Here at German Performance, we specialize in German-made cars. Germany has played a huge role in the production of cars throughout automotive history, and continues to lead the pack in technology and performance. Here are three fun and interesting facts about German cars.

German Scientists Made a Mind-Controlled Car

Yes, you read that correctly. Researchers in Germany have successfully built and tested a car that you can steer with just your thoughts. That’s an amazing technological breakthrough, but the car won’t be ready for “real world tests” for several years. Apparently, the learning curve is pretty high when you try to drive with your mind.

A German Car Gave Us a Common Phrase

You’ve probably heard someone say, “Wow, that’s a real doozy!” The phrase originated when the luxurious cars from Dusenberg, Germany, were presented to the world in the 1920’s. They were nicknamed Doozies, and the word evolved to refer to anything that’s impressive, or a big deal.

German Engineers Made the First Electric Car

German car company BMW was the first to produce a fully electric car — in 1972! Though the car was impractical (it used 12 batteries and could only drive for 19 miles), it was a feat of engineering that paved the way for future car makers.

If you have a German car that needs some attention, give us a call today! We will happily answer any questions you have.