FAQs

When do I need to replace my belts and hoses?

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Last Updated on Friday, 20 November 2009 01:57 Friday, 20 November 2009 01:45

If you can see cracks in your belts, it is time to have them replaced. We recommend replacing your belts and hoses at least every three to four years. If you squeeze the hoses and can see cracks or if your hoses look swollen or soft, that could be an indicator that they need to be replaced.  However, hoses can deteriorate on the inside and if this happens there is no visual evidence that the hose needs to be changed.

How To Get a Transmission Repair Quote & Diagnosis

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Last Updated on Wednesday, 10 February 2010 01:42 Tuesday, 09 February 2010 23:42

The only way I know of to get a vehicle properly diagnosed, is to have the car diagnosed by a qualified technician with the correct diagnostic equipment. If you called your doctor and said you had chest pains and he scheduled you for a heart bypass what would you think of that doctor, yet we are asked to diagnose a car over the phone all the time.

Physically Bringing Your Car or Truck in

At some point you will need to bring your car in to have it properly diagnosed. If possible go for a test ride with the technician so you can show them exactly what you are experiencing .Try and remember where you were and what you were doing. After it is clear that the technician is clear on what your concerns are, it is time for diagnostics. Sometimes the technician will know, or think they know what the problem is, but usually there is a diagnostic procedure that must be followed.

San Marcos Transmission Repair Diagnosis Costs

If you're in the San Marcos Area, take advantage of Alliance Transmissions & Auto Repair's Free Diagnosis Services. Click for Directions to our San Marcos Auto Repair Shop. If you're not in San Diego, or you're still looking for the best deal in town, read this article on Choosing a Car Repair Shop.

• Free Road Test
• Free Visual Inspection
• Free Computer Diagnostic
• Free Written Estimate
• Free Tow with Major Repair

Transmission Repair Diagnoses Over The Phone

A proper transmission diagnosis requires technical information, the right diagnostic equipment and someone trained in how to use it. If you are getting an answer about what’s wrong with your car or truck over the phone, it is not likely to be the real answer. With that said and understood, we can still give it a try, just understand that it's more of an educated guess than anything. Call (760) 471-2303 for a free transmission repair quote.

Proper Transmission Repair Diagnosis Steps

1. Schedule an appointment for the fastest service
2. Bring your car in, and go for a test drive with the technician
3. After making clear the technician understands what the problems you’re having are, it’s time for some diagnostics
4. Get a written quote and discuss the most likely issues
5. For transmission related problems, the transmission must actually be removed from the vehicle, opened, and inspected for a final diagnosis. Then a written quote will be made.

Why Alliance Transmissions & Auto Repair?

If you're in San Marcos, Vista, Escondido or the Greater San Diego Area, and still not sure about Alliance Transmissions & Auto Repair, Read some Testimonials or take a look at our Certifications and Affiliations. For even more information, check our About Page to find out about our History, Warranties Offered, and more.

How do I know when my car needs a tune up?

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Friday, 20 November 2009 01:44

You may see your gas mileage decrease.  Your vehicle may start running rough.  If your check engine light comes on that could  also be an indicator that your vehicle needs a tune up.  The owners manual that came with your vehicle may suggest a tune up at a certain mileage.

Will it hurt my engine if I drive my car when the check engine light is on?

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Last Updated on Monday, 30 November 2009 15:40 Friday, 20 November 2009 01:43

It is possible but not too likely.  However, you do need to get your vehicle checked out as soon as possible.Long term you may damage other components or  You may see a decrease in performance.

I need to replace a burned out fuse, what should I do?

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Friday, 20 November 2009 01:25

Always replace burned-out fuses with ones of the same amperage (printed on the fuse) and note that if a fuse continues to "blow," you should have the circuit checked professionally by one of our technicians for defects.

When should I change my spark plugs?

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Friday, 20 November 2009 01:25

For maximum fuel economy and peak engine performance, your spark plugs should be replaced every 30 months or 30,000 miles, unless your vehicle is equipped with 100,000-mile platinum tipped spark plugs.

When should I replace my car’s fuel filter?

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Friday, 20 November 2009 01:24

To help ensure dependable, trouble-free performance, replace your car's fuel filter approximately every 30,000 miles or as recommended in your vehicle's owner's manual.

What is synthetic motor oil?

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Friday, 20 November 2009 01:24

Synthetic motor oils can be a good choice for high output, turbocharged or supercharged engines, vehicles that are used for towing (especially during hot weather), or vehicles that are operated in extremely cold or hot climates. Synthetic motor oils, though several times more expensive than mineral-based motor oils, can improve fuel economy and provide longer intervals between changes. They also provide instant lubrication on start-up.