Pellman's Automotive Service

Strange Noises Your Car Makes and What They Actually Mean

Mon, 13 Apr 2026 14:17:40 GMT

You’re driving through Boulder with the windows down, enjoying the warmer spring air, when suddenly you hear it. A clunk over a bump. A squeal when you turn. A low hum that wasn’t there yesterday.

Strange noises are one of the first ways your car tells you something is wrong. The key is knowing what those sounds mean before they turn into bigger and more expensive problems. At Pellman’s Automotive, we help drivers diagnose these issues every day. Here are some of the most common vehicle noises and what they could be telling you.

Clunking Over Bumps

Likely cause: Suspension issues

If you hear a clunk or knocking sound when driving over bumps or uneven roads, your suspension system may be worn.

Common culprits include:

Worn ball joints
Loose or damaged control arms
Failing sway bar links
Worn shocks or struts

Colorado roads, especially after winter, can be tough on suspension components. Potholes and rough conditions accelerate wear and can lead to poor handling and reduced safety.

Squeaking When Turning or Driving Slowly

Likely cause: Suspension or steering components

A squeaking noise when turning the wheel or driving at low speeds often points to worn bushings or dry suspension joints. It can also be related to steering system components that need lubrication or replacement.

Ignoring this can lead to more serious steering or suspension failure over time.

Humming or Whining While Driving

Likely cause: Differential or drivetrain noise

If you hear a steady humming or whining noise that changes with speed, your differential may be the source. This is especially noticeable at highway speeds.

Possible causes include:

Worn differential gears
Low or contaminated differential fluid
Bearing wear inside the differential

Differential issues are often overlooked until the noise becomes loud. Early service can prevent major drivetrain repairs.

Grinding Noise While Driving

Likely cause: Brake or drivetrain concerns

A grinding sound can mean different things depending on when it happens. If it occurs while braking, your brake pads may be worn down. If it happens while driving, it could point to a more serious drivetrain issue. Either way, this is not a noise to ignore.

Clicking When Turning

Likely cause: CV joint wear

A repetitive clicking noise when turning, especially at lower speeds, is often a sign of a worn CV joint. This is part of your drivetrain and is essential for smooth power transfer to your wheels.

If left untreated, a failed CV joint can leave you stranded.

Rattling Under the Car

Likely cause: Loose components or exhaust issues

A rattling noise underneath your vehicle could be something as simple as a loose heat shield or as serious as a failing exhaust component. It can also be related to suspension parts that have come loose.

Why Spring Is the Time to Listen Closely

After a long Colorado winter, your vehicle has been exposed to cold temperatures, road salt, potholes, and rough driving conditions. Spring is often when hidden damage starts to show up in the form of new noises.

Catching these sounds early can save you money and help prevent breakdowns as you head into road trip season.

When to Get Your Car Checked

If you hear a new or unusual noise, it is always better to have it inspected sooner rather than later. Small issues can quickly turn into major repairs if ignored. We provide thorough inspections and advanced diagnostics to pinpoint the exact cause of the noise. Whether it is suspension noise, differential issues, or something else entirely, our experienced technicians will give you clear answers and reliable solutions.

If your car is making noises that do not sound right, let us take a look.

Pellman’s Automotive is proud to be a trusted name for auto repair in Boulder, helping drivers stay safe and confident on the road. Schedule your appointment today and enjoy a quieter, smoother ride this spring.

Is Your Car Shuddering or Hesitating? Here’s What It Means

Mon, 02 Mar 2026 14:00:24 GMT

You're merging onto the highway when suddenly your car stutters. The steering wheel shakes. The engine seems to hesitate. For a brief moment, it feels like your vehicle just lost its confidence.

Sound familiar?

Shuddering or hesitation isn’t just annoying; it's dangerous. It’s your car trying to tell you something. We’ve seen these symptoms point to everything from simple fixes to more serious repair needs. Understanding the difference can help you avoid costly breakdowns and keep your car running strong.

Common Reasons Your Car Hesitates or Shudders

1. Engine Misfires

A common cause of hesitation is a misfiring engine . This happens when one or more of your engine’s cylinders fail to ignite properly. Misfires can feel like a jolt, especially during acceleration, and are often caused by:

Worn spark plugs or ignition coils
Clogged fuel injectors
Vacuum leaks
Failing sensors

If ignored, misfires can reduce fuel efficiency, increase emissions, and lead to engine damage over time.

2. Transmission Shudder

That subtle vibration you feel at certain speeds might be coming from your transmission . A common cause is a condition called torque converter shudder. You’ll notice it most during light acceleration or when your vehicle is shifting gears.

This can be caused by:

Low or degraded transmission fluid
Dirty fluid filters
Worn components in the torque converter

Sometimes a fluid replacement can solve the issue, but continued driving without service could lead to more serious problems.

3. Fuel Delivery Problems

If your car hesitates while accelerating or feels sluggish, it could be due to fuel delivery issues. A clogged fuel filter, weak fuel pump, or dirty fuel injectors may be the culprit.

4. Faulty Sensors

Modern cars rely on sensors to manage fuel delivery and engine performance. If your mass airflow sensor, throttle position sensor, or oxygen sensor is malfunctioning, your car may hesitate or run unevenly.

5. Worn Mounts or Driveline Components

Not every shake is engine-related. A worn engine mount, failing CV joint, or driveshaft problem can create vibrations that worsen with speed or road conditions.

What to Do If Your Car Shakes or Hesitates

These symptoms are usually signs of something that will not go away on its own. If you notice hesitation or shaking, it’s time to schedule a diagnostic check .

Our certified technicians can quickly identify the source of the issue. Whether it’s a misfire, transmission shudder, or another problem entirely, we’ll provide honest recommendations and expert repairs to get you back on the road with confidence.

Schedule Your Inspection Today

If you’ve been searching for a trusted auto repair shop near you, Pellman’s is proud to be one of Boulder’s most reliable options. We work on a wide range of vehicles , including Subaru, Lexus, Chevy, and more. Our team specializes in diagnostics, brake repair, engine performance, and transmission service.

This March, give your car the attention it needs and avoid turning a small problem into a major repair. Schedule your service today and keep your vehicle running smooth and strong.

Love Your Car This February with a Little Extra TLC

Mon, 02 Feb 2026 14:01:19 GMT

While everyone is focused on flowers and chocolates this February, don’t forget the one relationship you rely on every single day: your car. It starts your mornings, braves snowy roads, and gets you where you need to go. It deserves a little appreciation.

February is the perfect time to give your vehicle some well-earned care and attention. Here’s how to fall back in love with your ride and keep it running strong through the rest of winter and beyond.

The best way to care for your car this February is to schedule a service visit. Whether you drive a Chevy, Lexus, Subaru, or another vehicle, Pellman’s Automotive is proud to be one of Boulder’s most trusted auto repair shops.

Show your car the love it deserves with preventive maintenance and expert care. When your vehicle is well cared for, every drive feels better. Contact us today to schedule your appointment and keep your car healthy, reliable, and ready for whatever comes next.

Give It the Gift of Fresh Oil

There is no better way to show your vehicle you care than by staying on top of oil changes . Cold weather puts extra strain on your engine, and clean oil keeps everything properly lubricated and protected. If you have been searching for an automotive shop to get an oil change near you, our team in Boulder is ready to provide fast, reliable service.

Inspect for Hidden Issues

Sometimes, the problems you can't see are the ones that lead to breakdowns later. Mid-winter is a great time for a diagnostic check. Whether it’s a warning light on your dashboard, a strange sound, or a sudden drop in performance, we offer complete car diagnostic tests to help identify issues early.

Show Your Battery Some Love

February mornings can be brutally cold, and that takes a toll on your car battery . If your engine is slow to start or your lights seem dim, it may be time for a battery test. We’ll check its strength and make sure your charging system is working properly so you are not left stranded on a cold day.

Warm Up with a Heater and Defroster Check

A working heater is not just about comfort. It is also critical for visibility and safety. If your defroster is slow or your heater is not keeping up, let us take a look. We will make sure you are staying warm, and your windows stay clear.

Treat Your Tires

Your tires are your only contact with the road, so they need to be in top shape. Worn tread, poor alignment, or low pressure can affect your traction and handling. We offer tire inspections , rotations, and alignment checks to help keep your drive safe and smooth, even on snowy roads.

Don’t Forget the Brakes

One of the most important systems in your car is the one that helps you stop safely. If you hear grinding, squealing, or feel vibrations when braking, it is time for an inspection. Whether you are searching for brake repair near you or want a full system check, we are here to help.

Bonus: Clean the Interior

Showing your car some love can be as simple as a little cleaning. Vacuum the mats, wipe down surfaces, and remove clutter. Add a new air freshener and your vehicle will feel refreshed and ready for the road ahead.

Let Pellman’s Automotive Help You Love Your Ride

10 Dangerous Brake Symptoms Colorado Drivers Should Never Ignore

Fri, 30 Jan 2026 18:19:12 GMT

Safe braking starts with regular maintenance. Let’s keep you in control on every Colorado road.

When it comes to vehicle safety, your brakes are one of the most important systems. Here in Colorado, where steep canyon roads and unpredictable weather are part of daily life, it is essential to know when your brakes need attention.

At Pellman’s Automotive, we help drivers stay ahead of problems before they become serious. If you notice any of the symptoms below, it is time to get your brakes checked.

1. Grinding or Squealing Sounds

If you hear squealing or grinding when you brake, your brake pads might be worn down. If the pads are gone completely, metal-on-metal contact could damage your rotors. This often leads to more expensive repairs.

2. ABS Warning Light

If the ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) light is on, your vehicle is alerting you to a problem. This could involve a sensor, the hydraulic pump, or other key components. An illuminated ABS light should always be inspected by a professional.

3. Vibrating Brake Pedal or Steering Wheel

A pulsing sensation in the brake pedal or vibrations in the steering wheel can be a sign of warped rotors. This is especially common in Colorado due to frequent downhill braking on mountain roads.

If your brake pedal feels too soft or sinks too easily, air could be in the brake lines, or there may be a fluid leak. Either way, your brakes are not working at full strength and should be inspected immediately.

4. Soft or Spongy Brake Pedal

A strong burning smell can be caused by overheated brake pads or fluid. This could indicate that your braking system is under too much stress. If this happens, pull over and allow the brakes to cool before continuing.

5. Burning Smell While Braking

6. Car Pulls to One Side When Braking

If your car veers left or right when you brake, it may be due to uneven brake pad wear, a stuck caliper, or a fluid issue. Tire alignment can also play a role, but it is important to rule out brake problems first.

7. Increased Stopping Distance

If it takes longer than usual to stop your vehicle, this could signal worn pads or low brake fluid. This issue becomes especially dangerous during winter conditions or in sudden traffic stops.

A brake pedal that feels stiff and requires extra pressure could be caused by a failing brake booster or a blockage in the brake line. Either issue reduces braking efficiency and increases your stopping distance.

8. Hard Brake Pedal

Brake fluid leaks often appear as clear or slightly yellow puddles beneath your car. If your fluid is low or leaking, your braking system will not function properly. Leaks should be addressed as soon as possible.

9. Leaking Brake Fluid

10. Brake Fade

Brake fade occurs when your brakes become less effective after repeated use, often while driving downhill or in stop-and-go traffic. This is a common issue for Colorado drivers, especially on steep mountain roads where prolonged braking builds up excessive heat. To help prevent brake fade or even complete brake failure, it’s important to downshift when driving downhill.

Using a lower gear allows your engine to help slow the vehicle, reducing the strain on your brakes. This technique is especially critical on long descents, which is why runaway truck ramps exist on mountain highways. These emergency ramps are designed for vehicles that have lost braking power due to overheated brakes, a serious risk that all drivers should be aware of when navigating Colorado's rugged terrain.

Stay Ahead of Brake Problems

Ignoring brake warning signs can lead to dangerous situations. At Pellman’s Automotive, our ASE-certified technicians perform thorough brake inspections and honest repairs. Whether you are noticing strange sounds, reduced performance, or warning lights, we are here to help.

If you have been searching for brake repair in Boulder or need a second opinion, give us a call or schedule an appointment online . Our team will make sure your brakes are working properly so you can drive with confidence this winter and beyond.

2025 Holiday Gift Guide: The Best Christmas Gifts for Car Lovers

Tue, 11 Nov 2025 16:53:00 GMT

2025 Gift Buying Guide for Car Lovers

If the scent of fresh tires is someone’s version of holiday cheer, or they’ve got more pictures of their ride than their kids, then you’ve got a car lover on your hands. With December fast approaching, now’s the time to put some horsepower under the tree.
Whether you’re shopping for a garage tinkerer, road‑tripper, or someone who treats their car better than their wardrobe—we’ve put together a gift guide that covers all types of gearheads. So grab your hot cocoa, turn up the heated seats, and get ready to wrap up some seriously cool gifts this Christmas.

Stocking Stuffers Under $25

Affordable, fun, and practical—these are perfect for glove boxes, stocking stuffers, or helping someone build up their car‑lover gear.

Car Lover’s Socks – A pair of quirky, car‑themed socks adds whimsy and warmth. Great for slipping into the glove compartment or gifting as a fun add‑on.
Interior LED Lights – Compact strips that add ambient lighting inside the car. Many offer DIY Mode and Music Mode, turning everyday drives into mini light‑shows.
LEGO 2 Fast 2 Furious Set – A nostalgic build for fans of the franchise, perfect for a quick stop at home after a drive or as a decorative model on a shelf.
6‑Speed Gear Stick Shifter Cufflinks – Stylish but subtle for the manual‑gearhead who also enjoys a sharp look outside the garage.

Car‑Themed T‑Shirt – Commemorate someone’s passion in wearable form: think graphic prints, vintage prints, or mechanic‑humor tees.

Mid‑Range Gifts ($25–$150)

Upgrade their ride (or shift the mood) with these more substantial gifts that combine fun, utility, and strong value.

F1 25 (PlayStation 5 Game) – For the racing fan who spends time road‑tripping the virtual circuits. Let them own their own Formula One team, build a strategy and race late nights.
NANOLEAF Stainless Waterproof Watch – Inspired by automotive design, this timepiece blends performance aesthetics with everyday durability—perfect for someone who appreciates both form and function.
Car‑Shaped or 3D V8 Engine Coffee Mug – Make morning coffee feel like lap time. Whether it's shaped like a classic engine block or features a car silhouette, it’s a desktop nod to their passion.
Custom Car Specs Art – Transform the year, make, model and key stats of their vehicle into a framed, artistic print. A personalized gift that lives on the wall and sparks conversation.
Dash Cam – Ideal for commuting, scenic drives or peace of mind in parking lots. A reliable dash cam becomes your passenger too.
Car Emergency Kit – Pre‑made or custom: include things like a flashlight, warm blanket, traction mats, first‑aid items and snacks. Add a note: “Because I care.”
Portable Electric Cooler/Warmer – Whether for tailgates, road trips or familes on the go: a plug‑in car fridge that cools drinks or warms meals makes any drive more comfortable

Big Gifts for Serious Car Lovers

Upgrade their ride (or shift the mood) with these more substantial gifts that combine fun, utility, and strong value.

Engraved Chevy Big Block V8 Clock – A custom garage wall clock that looks like a classic engine, adding character and personality to any workspace or office.

Toolbox‑Style Portable Fridge – Looks like a tool chest but functions as a fridge or cooler. Perfect for car lovers who like their gear as much as their rides.
V8 Engine Model Kit – Build it piece‑by‑piece, display it with pride, and let the engine come to life in miniature form.
LEGO Back to the Future Time Machine (Set 10300) – For fans of iconic rides and retro tech, this build‑set blends nostalgia with craft.
Track Day or Off‑Road Adventure Gift Card – Give the gift of experience: a half‑day on a race track or off‑road trail proves the car lives for more than just the commute.
Truck Bed Protective Liner – Practical meets premium: help them protect their gear, cargo, and pride with a rugged bed liner upgrade.

DieHard Gold 5‑in‑1 6V/12V Battery Charger & 125‑Amp Engine Starter (DH0163) – This powerhouse unit not only charges and maintains 6‑volt and 12‑volt batteries, but also features a 40‑amp boost mode and built‑in alternator/battery diagnostics—ideal for drivers who invest in serious vehicle longevity.
DieHard Platinum 2000 Peak Amp Lithium Jump Starter & Power Pack (DH0170) – The ultimate tool for cold‑weather starts: 2,000 peak amps, pre‑boost technology for very low temps, and built‑in USB/ wireless charging to keep you powered on and off the road.

Bonus: Local Gift Ideas in Boulder

Support local businesses and give unique gifts that celebrate place and passion:

Pellman’s Automotive Gift Certificate – Good for oil changes, diagnostics, inspections, detailing and more.
Car Wash Membership (Local Boulder Shop) – Keep their ride sparkling all year long.
Custom Decals or Wraps from a Local Artist – Personalize their car with style created right in Boulder.
Day Pass to Scenic Drives – Gifts like a Colorado Parks annual pass or access to top scenic roads make for unforgettable drives.

Wrap Up the Season with Confidence

Pellman’s is here to keep your holiday travels safe and stress‑free. Give the gift of preparation, protection, and horsepower this Christmas—and treat your favorite car lover (or yourself) to something they’ll actually use. Happy Holidays from all of us at Pellman’s Automotive! �55356;�57220;

How to Jump Start Your Car Safely – A Colorado Driver’s Guide

Mon, 03 Nov 2025 20:01:00 GMT

Stuck with a Dead Battery? Here's What to Do

It’s a crisp Colorado morning—maybe you're heading to a trailhead or just trying to get to work on time. You slide into the driver’s seat, turn the key (or push the button)... and nothing. No crank. No start. Just a cold, stubborn silence. Chances are, your battery is dead—and winter weather in Boulder doesn’t make things easier. But don’t worry. With the right tools and a little know-how, jump-starting your car can be quick, safe, and straightforward. At Pellman’s Automotive, we help Boulder drivers navigate battery issues all year long. Here's our step-by-step guide to safely jumping your car.

What to Know Before You Jump-Start:

Only Jump Vehicles with a 12V System:
You can safely jump-start any vehicle that runs on a 12-volt system—which includes the vast majority of cars, trucks, and SUVs on the road today.
Never Jump a Frozen Battery:
If your battery looks swollen or you suspect it may be frozen (a risk after very cold nights), do not attempt to charge or jump it. A frozen battery can crack or even explode. Instead, call for a tow and have it professionally inspected.
Check for Corrosion First:
Before connecting jumper cables, inspect the battery terminals. Heavy corrosion can block a proper connection and cause a failed jump attempt. If you see buildup, clean it off carefully or visit a repair shop to avoid further issues.

What You’ll Need:

You can jump-start a car two ways:

Using jumper cables and another vehicle
Using a portable jump starter (like our DieHard November 2025 Giveaway unit!)

Either way, make sure you reference your owner’s manual and have:

Jumper cables or a portable jump starter
A working vehicle (if using cables)
Safety gear: gloves, glasses, and caution

Step-by-Step: How to Jump a Car with Jumper Cables

Park the vehicles close—but don’t let them touch.
Put both cars in park (or neutral if manual) and turn off the ignition.
Open the hoods and locate the batteries.
Most are easy to find, but some are tucked away— always check your manual.
Attach the jumper cables in this exact order:
�55357;�56628; Red to dead – Connect the red (+) clamp to the positive terminal of the dead battery.
�55357;�56628; Red to donor – Connect the other red clamp to the positive terminal of the good battery.
⚫ Black to donor – Connect the black (–) clamp to the negative terminal of the good battery.
⚫ Black to metal ground – Connect the final black clamp to an unpainted metal surface on the dead car’s engine block or frame (not the battery itself) to prevent sparks.
Start the working car.
Let it run for a few minutes.
Try starting the dead car.
If it starts, let both cars idle for 5–10 minutes to help recharge the battery.
Remove the cables in reverse order:
⚫ Ground clamp off
⚫ Negative from good battery
�55357;�56628; Positive from good battery
�55357;�56628; Positive from dead battery
Drive for at least 20 minutes.
This helps the alternator recharge the battery. If the car doesn’t hold the charge, your battery or charging system may need professional help.

Using a Portable Jump Starter (Even Easier!)

If you’ve got a jump pack like the DieHard Platinum 2000 Peak Amp Jump Starter , you’re in luck. Here’s how to use it:

Turn off the car.
Connect the jump starter cables:
Red to + terminal, black to – terminal
Turn on the jump starter and attempt to start the car.
Once started, disconnect the cables in reverse order.
Recharge the jump pack when you’re back home.

Pro-Tips for Jump Starting in Colorado Winters

Never jump a battery with visible cracks or leaks—call for a tow instead.
Keep jumper cables or a jump pack in your emergency kit year-round.
If your car dies again after a jump, your battery or alternator may be failing.
Pellman’s offers quick battery checks and charging system diagnostics to help you avoid getting stranded twice.

Bonus for Pellman’s Customers:
Thanks to our partnership with TechNet, any qualifying service (over $25) at Pellman’s comes with FREE Emergency Roadside Assistance —including jump starts, towing, flat tire help, and more.

Need a Battery Check or Replacement?

If your battery’s been struggling or your car has been slow to crank in the mornings, come see us. We’ll perform a battery health test and offer honest, no-pressure advice on whether it's time to replace it.

Book a diagnostic or battery check with Pellman’s Automotive — trusted Boulder car care for over 30 years. Stay safe, stay warm, and don’t let a dead battery ruin your plans. Pellman’s Automotive has your back—rain, shine, or snow.

Are you Emergency Ready?: What Every Colorado Driver Needs in Winter

Mon, 03 Nov 2025 19:55:00 GMT

As November settles in, the last golden leaves twist through the air along Canyon Boulevard. The mornings are colder, your windshield takes longer to defrost, and the Flatirons wear a dusting of early snow. It’s the kind of quiet shift that sneaks up—one day you’re driving with the windows cracked, the next, you're reaching for gloves and watching for black ice.

Colorado winters are breathtaking—but they’re also unpredictable. That’s why being emergency-ready isn’t just a good idea. It’s essential. At Pellman’s Automotive, we’ve helped Colorado drivers prepare for decades. From keeping your brakes responsive on frozen canyon curves to helping you build the ultimate emergency kit, we’re here to make sure you’re ready for anything winter throws your way.

Build a Winter Emergency Kit That’s Ready for Anything

When the temperature drops and roads get slick, a well-stocked emergency kit can turn a bad day into a manageable inconvenience. Here’s what we recommend keeping in your vehicle this winter:

Warmth & Comfort

A warm blanket, extra gloves, mittens, a hat, and layers of clothing
Thermal hand warmers (optional but great for long waits)
Rain poncho or waterproof jacket

Tools & Essentials

Jumper cables or a portable jump starter
Tow strap or rope for towing or rescue
Cutting tool (box cutter, pocketknife, or multi‑tool)
Duct tape for quick fixes
Small shovel for digging out of snow
Car chains or Auto Socks for added traction
Basic tool kit (screwdrivers, pliers, adjustable wrench)
Tire pressure gauge

Safety & Visibility

Emergency flares or reflective triangles to warn other drivers
Whistle to signal for help
Reflective vest for roadside visibility
Flashlight with spare batteries (a headlamp is even better )

Traction & Stability

Small bag or bucket of sand, gravel, or kitty litter for traction
Traction mats (optional but great for icy conditions)

Health & Hygiene

First‑aid kit, including:
Bandages, antiseptic wipes, cold pack, first‑aid cream, gloves, and pain relievers
Hand cleaner or wet wipes for cleanup

Food & Hydration

Gallon of water in a metal container (plastic can crack or burst in the cold)
Bottled water (for short-term use)
Non‑perishable snacks (like protein bars or nuts)

Power & Communication

Phone charger and portable power bank
Spare set of car keys
Notebook and pencil/pen for notes or leaving messages
Cash in small bills

Bonus Convenience Items

Snow brush and ice scraper
Shop cloth or microfiber towels
Flashlight or green lightstick for visibility inside the vehicle

Preparedness brings peace of mind—especially when traveling through remote mountain passes or navigating surprise storm systems along the Front Range.

Two Winter Giveaways You Won’t Want to Miss!

Enter to Win a Fully Stocked Winter Emergency Kit – Courtesy of NAPA
In partnership with NAPA Auto Parts, Pellman’s Automotive is giving away a premium cold-weather emergency kit to help one lucky Colorado driver stay safe and prepared this winter.
Why It Matters : This curated kit has everything you need to handle common winter roadside emergencies—from black ice breakdowns to remote canyon stalls.

Bonus Giveaway: DieHard Platinum 2000 Peak Amp Lithium Jump Starter – Powered by Carquest
In partnership with Carquest, we’re also giving away a DieHard Platinum 2000 Peak Amp Lithium Jump Starter & Power Pack—the ultimate tool for independent, on-the-go power. Whether you're stuck in a parking lot or out in the mountains, this portable jump starter gives you the freedom to get going without needing a second vehicle.
Not sure how to use it? Check out our guide on how to safely jump-start your car using a jump pack or traditional cables.

Starts cars, trucks, SUVs, and diesel engines with ease
Compact, powerful, and easy to use
Built-in power pack for phones and electronics
Includes Safe Smart Cables & Clamps

Winter Driving Starts with Smart Prep

If you’ve lived here long enough, you know the rules change in winter. You drive slower, take wider turns, and leave more space between vehicles. Visibility drops faster than the temperature, and stopping distances stretch on slick roads. Even a quick trip to the store can turn into a cautious, calculated drive when the snow rolls in.

That’s why car prep isn’t optional. Routine service and preventive care are key to avoiding breakdowns and accidents during cold-weather driving. Whether you’re searching for the best car repair shop, places to get an oil change , or brake repair , the team at Pellman’s delivers thorough, honest service. We offer complete vehicle inspections, car diagnostic tests, and expert repairs on everything from brakes and batteries to detailed engine checks —keeping your car reliable, responsive, and road-ready.

Why Drivers Love It

Why Choose Pellman’s This Winter?

Every one of the following gets you an entry—no purchase necessary:

Visit Pellman’s in November
Leave a review on Google or Yelp
Like, comment, or share one of our social media posts on Facebook or Instagram

The more you engage, the better your chances of winning! Deadline: November 30, 2025
Winners Announced: December 2nd, 2025

Pickup Location: Winners must collect their prize in person at Pellman’s Automotive We’re drawing two lucky winners because winter safety is better shared. Since participants can earn multiple entries, we’re keeping things fair by limiting the prize to one per person.
If the same name is drawn twice, we’ll redraw to give another community member a chance to win. Enter once a day, share the love, and good luck!

How to Enter Either Giveaway

With over 30 years serving the Boulder area, Pellman’s Automotive is proud to be one of the best car repair shops that locals continue to rely on. We offer:

Winter-specific inspections
Car diagnostic tests
Oil changes
Battery checks
And everything your car needs to handle cold weather confidently

Drive Safer. Stay Ready. Be Emergency-Prepared.

Whether you’re heading up to Eldora, braving a snowstorm on US-36, or simply navigating an icy morning drop-off, winter driving in Colorado demands more from your vehicle—and from you. Let Pellman’s Automotive help you get ready. Schedule your seasonal inspection , prep your emergency kit, prepare your vehicle for Boulder’s Winter , and enter to win some extra peace of mind. Because in Colorado, winter isn't just a season—it’s a challenge. And we’re here to help you face it with confidence. Let’s make this your safest, smartest winter yet.

Braking for a Cure: Free Brake Pads This Fall with Brakes for Breasts

Mon, 22 Sep 2025 20:42:00 GMT

A Season of Care—For Your Car & Your Community

As the leaves begin to turn and the first hints of frost settle into Boulder mornings, it's time to start thinking about preparing your car for fall and winter driving. At Pellman’s Automotive, this season means more than just maintenance—it’s about making a meaningful impact. That’s why we’re proud to support Brakes for Breasts, a national initiative uniting independent auto repair shops across the U.S. in the fight against breast cancer.

What Is Brakes for Breasts?

Brakes for Breasts is a grassroots movement that has raised over $2 million in donations for breast cancer vaccine research at the Cleveland Clinic—a project led by Dr. Vincent Tuohy and his team, dedicated to developing a preventative breast cancer vaccine. This vaccine is currently in clinical trials and represents a promising step toward a future free of breast cancer diagnoses.

What makes this campaign unique is that 100% of all donations go directly to the research, not overhead or marketing. It’s real support going to real science—with the potential to save lives.

How You Can Get Involved

Pellman’s Automotive is participating once again in the TechNet Brakes for Breasts campaign. While we encourage you to schedule your fall brake inspection for safety reasons, this season you also have the opportunity to give back in a meaningful way.

Here’s how it works:

When you purchase and install qualifying brake pads at Pellman’s Automotive, you’ll be eligible to receive up to $40 back.
You can choose to keep your rebate, or donate it directly to Brakes for Breasts to help fund life-saving research. Click here to learn more about the rebate and view our brake specials.

Why Fall Is the Right Time for Brake Service

With colder weather and shorter days ahead, your brakes are one of the most critical safety systems on your vehicle. Whether you’re commuting through town or heading up the canyon, responsive brakes make all the difference on wet or icy roads.

At Pellman’s, we provide:

Full brake pad and rotor inspections
Brake fluid testing and replacement
Diagnostics for noise, vibration, or stopping power issues

Taking care of your vehicle now means peace of mind through the snow, slush, and seasonal road hazards to come.

More Than a Tune-Up—It’s a Chance to Make a Difference

Each year, thousands of women and families face life-changing breast cancer diagnoses. While we may not be scientists or doctors, we can help support the kind of research that leads to prevention and hope. By choosing Pellman’s this fall, you’re not just getting expert car care—you’re helping fund a future where fewer people have to hear the words “It’s cancer.”

Together, let’s drive change. Schedule your brake inspection today and join us in supporting Brakes for Breasts—because safer roads and stronger futures start with small, powerful choices.

A/C Problems in the Summer Heat? Boulder’s Auto Pros Explain Why

Fri, 01 Aug 2025 13:00:00 GMT

You hop into your car on a scorching July afternoon in Boulder. The sun’s blazing, your seatbelt buckle could fry an egg, and the pavement’s radiating heat is like a stovetop. All you want is a blast of cold air. You crank the A/C—and instead, you get a gust of warm, stale air. Now you’re inching along Broadway, windows down, sweat dripping, stuck in traffic, and wondering, Why now?

You’re not alone. At Pellman’s Automotive, we hear from drivers every day during the summer who are dealing with air conditioning troubles—many of which might have been avoided with a little prevention or timely diagnostics. Maybe your AC isn’t as cool as it used to be? Find out why and get it checked now to ensure you stay comfortable with optimal cooling on those hot summer days.

Below, we answer the top questions Boulder drivers search when their system starts blowing warm air (or nothing at all)—so you can stay cool, comfortable, and confident on the road.

Why is my car's A/C not blowing cold air?

This is the #1 summer complaint we hear. The most common causes include:

Low refrigerant due to leaks
A faulty compressor or condenser
A clogged expansion valve

Fix: A professional diagnostic will detect low pressure, faulty components, or blockages. At Pellman’s, we use precision tools to test your entire system before recommending repairs.

Why is my car's A/C blowing warm air at idle?

If your air conditioner cools while driving but blows warm at a stoplight, it may be due to:

A weak A/C compressor
Cooling fan failure
Low refrigerant levels

Fix: We’ll observe the compressor function and inspect your cooling fans to ensure proper airflow during idle conditions.

Why does my A/C get cold, then warm again?

Inconsistent cooling often points to:

A clogged or dirty cabin air filter
Low refrigerant
Failing sensors or blend door actuators

Fix: We inspect your filter, test refrigerant pressure , and use diagnostics to check for electrical issues or actuator malfunctions.

Can I recharge my car's A/C myself?

DIY recharge kits exist, but they often:

Mask the real issue (like a leak)
Overcharging the system causes damage
Fail to include proper lubricant or pressure testing
Will increase the cost of a professional repair

Fix: We recommend professional A/C service to ensure safe, efficient operation and long-lasting performance. At Pellman’s, we perform thorough tests, leak checks, and recharges using the correct refrigerant for your make and model. More importantly, air conditioning issues aren’t just a problem for your vehicle—they’re harmful to the environment. Releasing refrigerant into the atmosphere contributes to damaging emissions, which is why preventing leaks is so important. Our MACS-certified technicians are trained to handle your A/C system safely, and we can reclaim, clean, and recycle refrigerant—something DIY kits can’t do. Trust us to keep your A/C performing optimally while protecting the environment.

How much does it cost to fix a car A/C?

Repairs can range from a simple recharge to a new compressor. Costs depend on:

The type of refrigerant
The component failing (compressor, condenser, etc.)
Vehicle make and model

Fix: At Pellman’s, we believe in upfront pricing and honest diagnostics. We thoroughly inspect and properly diagnose your vehicle before providing a cost to fix it—no upselling, just clear answers and transparent pricing.

Why does my car's A/C make a hissing or clicking sound?

Hissing may be normal during system pressure changes, but clicking, grinding, or buzzing can signal:

Compressor clutch issues
Loose components
Debris in the blower motor

Fix: We’ll inspect belts, clutches, and internal parts to catch issues before they become major repairs.

What can I do to prevent A/C problems?

Your AC system is responsible for defrosting in winter, so it’s crucial to keep it operational year-round.

Run your air conditioner weekly for 5 minutes year-round
Replace the cabin air filter annually
Check out our Seasonal Specials for deals on inspections and A/C service !
Use the fresh air mode as often as possible

Stay Cool with Boulder’s Trusted Auto Air Condition Shop

Whether you’re prepping for a road trip or just tired of sweating through your commute, Pellman’s Automotive has the tools, training, and care to get your A/C back to peak performance. We’re proud to be Boulder’s go-to automotive air conditioning shop, trusted by locals for over 30 years. Schedule your air conditioning inspection today and enjoy summer in cool comfort—because you deserve a car that works as hard as you do.

A moldy or musty smell likely comes from:

Fix: We can disinfect your air conditioning system , replace your cabin filter, and improve airflow for fresher air every time you turn the key.

Mold in the evaporator core
Dirty cabin air filters
Moisture buildup
Using the recirc button will increase the possibility of this condition. We recommend using the fresh air setting primarily.

Boulder’s Most Common Summer Auto Repairs—And How to Avoid Them

Tue, 01 Jul 2025 17:52:00 GMT

Summer in Boulder is road trip season—and it’s also one of the busiest times of year for local repair shops. According to industry data, auto repair claims increase by nearly 20% during summer months, with brake wear, overheating engines, and A/C failures among the most frequent issues. This spike isn’t just about the heat—it's also due to longer road trips, heavier family travel, and an uptick in vehicles on the road. Many drivers also defer non-urgent winter repairs, only to feel the impact once summer driving demands hit.

In 2024, Colorado's tourism industry maintained its record-setting pace from the previous year. The state welcomed 93.3 million visitors, matching 2023's all-time high, and saw travel spending reach $28.2 billion—a 3.9% increase over 2022. This growth supported approximately 187,710 jobs and generated $1.8 billion in state and local tax revenue. These sustained high levels of tourism underscore the importance of vehicle readiness for both residents and visitors.

Whether you’re heading out for a road trip adventure , camping near Brainard Lake, or navigating July traffic on US-36, your car is working overtime in the heat. At Pellman’s Automotive, we’ve seen firsthand how Boulder’s terrain and weather can push vehicles to their limits. Here's a breakdown of the most common summer auto repairs we handle—and what you can do to prevent them.

1. Overheating Engines

AAA reports that 1 in 5 summer roadside breakdowns are caused by overheating and cooling system failures, with overall breakdowns increasing by approximately 20% during the summer months. High temperatures put added pressure on engines and batteries , but in Boulder, that stress is compounded by elevation, steep mountain driving, and long-distance travel, making your cooling system one of the most critical components to maintain.

Warning signs:

Engine temp warning light
Steam from the hood
Unusual coolant smell

Prevention:

Top off or flush the coolant based on your owner’s manual (usually every 2–3 years)
Inspect radiator hoses for cracks or bulges
If your temperature gauge is spiking, first shut down the engine immediately, pull over to a safe location, and call for a tow—this can help you avoid costly, preventable damage from an overheating engine. Once safe, have a technician diagnose the cooling system to pinpoint the issue and recommend repairs. Never open a hot cooling system or engine.

At Pellman’s, we perform cooling system diagnostics that detect small leaks and cooling system issues before they become full-blown failures.

2. Air Conditioning Failures

After months of disuse, your A/C can fail under the stress of Boulder’s July heat. According to CarMD, A/C system repairs rank in the top five most expensive summer fixes, with costs ranging from $300–$1,000 depending on the issue.

Common causes:

Refrigerant leaks
Failed compressors or clutches
Dirt or debris in cabin air filters

Prevention:

Run the A/C weekly for 5 minutes—even in cooler months—to keep parts lubricated
Replace cabin air filters annually
Schedule an A/C performance test

As a leading automotive air conditioning shop in Boulder, we recommend A/C inspections before July temperatures peak to avoid sweltering drives later.

3. Brake System Repairs

Over 20% of summer service tickets at repair shops include some form of brake system repair , and it’s no surprise why—heat, steep descents, and heavier travel loads all accelerate brake wear. According to the Colorado Department of Transportation, accident rates increase in the summer, often due to poor braking performance. A 2022 study found that brake failures are 1.4 times more likely during summer months, and alarmingly, over 22% of fatal vehicle defects are directly linked to brake-related issues.

Warning signs:

Grinding or squealing noises
Soft or spongy pedal feel
Increased stopping distance

Prevention:

Have your brakes inspected every 10,000–15,000 miles
Use engine braking in the mountains to reduce brake fade
Service brake fluid every 2 years to maintain stopping power

As Boulder’s go-to shop for brake repair and inspections, we’ll keep your braking system in peak shape before your next summer drive.

4. Battery Failures

Battery failure is 40% more likely in summer than in winter, even though cold weather often gets the blame. The real culprit is heat, which evaporates internal fluids and accelerates corrosion, shortening battery life and increasing the risk of unexpected breakdowns.

Average lifespan in Colorado: 3–5 years

Prevention:

Have your battery tested in Spring & Fall
Clean corrosion from terminals and ensure tight connections
Park in shaded or covered areas when possible

We offer quick battery tests at Pellman’s to give you peace of mind.

5. Suspension & Alignment Problems

By summer, Boulder’s roads are showing the scars of winter and spring: potholes, uneven paving, and construction debris. These wreak havoc on suspension components.

Symptoms:

Car pulling to one side
Uneven tire wear
Rough or bouncy ride

Prevention:

Schedule a suspension and alignment check after spring thaw
Rotate tires every 5,000–7,500 miles
Avoid construction zones when possible

As an experienced automotive suspension shop, Pellman’s offers precision diagnostics and repairs to keep your ride smooth and safe.

Stay Ahead of Summer Repairs—With Local Experts You Can Trust

July in Boulder brings longer days, outdoor adventures, and road trip memories—but also higher repair risk if your vehicle isn't prepped for the heat and mileage. AAA and other studies show that tens of millions of summer roadside breakdowns could be prevented with simple routine maintenance and timely part replacements.

At Pellman’s Automotive, we combine decades of experience with advanced diagnostics and honest service to keep your car reliable all summer long. Check out our Seasonal Specials and schedule your inspection today - hit the road with confidence! Let’s make this your smoothest, safest summer yet—one smart repair at a time.

Adventures In Boulder: Road Trips, Family Time & Summer Car Care

Thu, 12 Jun 2025 18:22:00 GMT

It’s June in Boulder. The sky stretches wide in that high-altitude blue. The foothills glow green from recent spring rains. Pearl Street buzzes with open-air dining and street performers. Locals dust off their hiking boots and paddleboards. And just about everyone is loading up the car for a weekend escape—windows down, playlist up, snacks packed.

Whether you're heading out for a scenic drive along the Peak to Peak Highway, hiking the wildflowers of Chautauqua, or chasing waterfalls in Eldorado Canyon, one thing is certain: summer in Boulder is road trip season. And at Pellman’s Automotive, we’re here to make sure your vehicle is just as ready as you are.

Summer in Colorado Starts with a Safe Ride

In Boulder, June often brings that perfect balance of warm sunshine and cool mountain air. It’s when families pile into their SUVs, dogs wag their tails in the back seat, and kids ask if you're there yet, five minutes into a two-hour drive. But before you hit the road, it’s worth asking: Is your car road-trip ready?

One critical yet overlooked part of pre-trip prep is your brakes.

Why Brake Repair Should Be a Priority

All those scenic mountain highways come with steep grades, winding curves, and sudden wildlife crossings. Strong, responsive brakes are essential for safety, especially when you're navigating Colorado’s varied terrain. Common signs you may need brake service before a summer trip:

Squealing or grinding sounds when braking
A spongy or vibrating brake pedal
Increased stopping distance
A brake warning light on your dashboard

At Pellman’s Automotive, we provide expert brake repair in Boulder using high-quality parts and precision diagnostics to keep your vehicle safe.

Comprehensive Auto Repair for Every Journey

Brake repair is just the start. Summer heat, elevation changes, and long drives put your vehicle through its paces. We offer complete auto repair services to make sure every part of your vehicle is ready for the road—from your engine and A/C system to tires, belts, and fluids. As a family-owned shop with over 30 years of experience in Boulder, we take pride in getting to know you and your vehicle. Our goal? To help you avoid breakdowns, minimize costs, and keep your focus on the fun!

Local Day Trip Inspiration: Boulder & Beyond

Still mapping out your summer adventures? Whether you're a Boulder local or a visitor exploring the area for the first time, there are countless can’t-miss drives and destinations to make your trip unforgettable. From scenic mountain routes to family-friendly hikes, we've got suggestions to help you make the most of every mile. And if you're just passing through and need a quick tune-up or brake check, give us a call—we’ll get you back on the road quickly so you can return to making lasting memories.

Peak to Peak Scenic Byway – A winding alpine route offering breathtaking views of the Rockies and charming stops in mountain towns like Nederland and Estes Park.
Brainard Lake Recreation Area – Just outside of Ward, this high-elevation gem is perfect for lakeside picnics, moose watching, and alpine hikes. Arrive early—it's a local favorite and fills up fast in summer.
Boulder Falls – A short and scenic drive from town brings you to a picturesque waterfall nestled in a canyon—great for stretching your legs and snapping family photos.
Flagstaff Road to Gross Reservoir – A local favorite for its panoramic overlooks and access to peaceful mountain lakes.
Hiking the Flatirons – No visit to Boulder is complete without tackling these iconic sandstone slabs. From challenging climbs to leisurely strolls along the Meadow Trail, the views are unmatched.
Chautauqua Park – The historic heart of Boulder’s outdoor scene. Pack a picnic, catch a concert at the historic auditorium, or start your next hike at one of many nearby trailheads.
Eldorado Canyon State Park – Towering sandstone cliffs, epic hiking trails, and crystal-clear creek views just minutes from South Boulder—perfect for climbers and nature lovers.
Boulder Creek Path – A serene, shaded trail that winds through town—great for biking, walking, or just enjoying a peaceful moment beside the water.
Glenwood Springs– A scenic drive away, this charming mountain town offers natural hot springs, adventure parks, and a relaxing riverside vibe—perfect for a full family day trip.
Wild Animal Sanctuary in Keenesberg – A unique experience for animal lovers, this sanctuary houses rescued lions, tigers, bears, and more, all roaming vast natural habitats. Educational and inspiring for all ages.
Red Rock Park & Amphitheatre – Catch a sunrise, hike the trails, or see a concert at this legendary venue carved into red sandstone rock formations—just a short drive from Boulder. It’s a one-of-a-kind, open-air venue naturally formed between two towering 300-foot sandstone monoliths—Ship Rock and Creation Rock—offering both breathtaking scenery and world-class performances.
Colorado Springs – Garden of the Gods and Pikes Peak – From the towering red rocks of Garden of the Gods to the summit views of Pikes Peak, this southern Colorado gem is packed with natural wonder and family-friendly fun.

Whatever your destination, a well-maintained car makes the experience better and safer.

Summer is for Family & Friends, Not Unexpected Repairs

Nothing kills vacation vibes like car trouble on the side of the road. Let Pellman’s help you avoid those detours with honest, expert service tailored to your summer plans. Whether you're a longtime local or just visiting Boulder for the season, our team is here to make sure you spend your summer miles making memories, not waiting for a tow.

Schedule Your Summer Safety Inspection

Before you load the cooler, crank the A/C, and set off on that long-awaited summer escape, schedule a brake check or a full Road Trip Inspection at Pellman’s Automotive. From steep mountain passes to family road trips across Colorado, your brakes, fluids, and overall performance matter more than ever. At Pellman’s Automotive, we ensure you're not just road-ready…you’re road-confident. Let’s keep your summer smooth, safe, and unforgettable—one well-tuned mile at a time!

From Snow to Slush to Sunshine: How Spring Weather Impacts Your Car’s Performance in Boulder County

Mon, 05 May 2025 16:55:00 GMT

As the snow melts into thick, wet slush, Boulder begins its stunning transformation. Green foothills reemerge, bikes return to the trails, the air fills with the scent of fresh rain and blooming flowers, and sunshine finally stretches beyond the workday. But while spring is a welcome sight, it brings a unique set of changes for your car. If you’re feeling the itch to roll the windows down and cruise up to Flagstaff—or just get through your daily commute without surprises—now’s the time to check how winter left your vehicle. At Pellman’s Automotive, we specialize in keeping Boulder cars running smoothly through all four of Colorado’s dramatic seasons. Here’s how spring weather impacts your vehicle’s performance—and what you can do to stay ahead.

Suspension Shock: What Winter Leaves Behind

Snow, ice, and freeze-thaw cycles leave more than puddles in their wake—they leave potholes, and plenty of them. Boulder County roads can take a serious beating in winter, and your suspension system often takes the hit.

Feeling every bump? That could be worn-out shocks or struts.
Does your car drift when turning or feel unstable at higher speeds? That’s a sign your alignment or suspension might be out of spec.

As a trusted automotive suspension shop in Boulder, we recommend a full suspension inspection in early spring. Left unchecked, suspension issues can lead to uneven tire wear, poor handling, and long-term damage to your steering components.

Warm Weather, Weak A/C? Get Ahead of the Heat

In Boulder, we know spring doesn't play by the rules. An 88-degree day today can be a high of 70 tomorrow. That kind of quick swing in temps means your car's A/C needs to be ready at a moment’s notice. If your air conditioning hasn’t seen much action over the winter, now’s the perfect time to give it a test—before you find yourself stuck in traffic on Foothills Parkway with nothing but hot air blowing through the vents. Common spring A/C issues:

Low refrigerant from slow winter leaks
Mold or musty smells from trapped moisture
Compressor strain from dried-out seals

Our ASE certified techs at Pellman’s Automotive can run diagnostics, check refrigerant levels, and get your system ready to keep you cool when you need it most.

Why Spring is Prime Time for Auto Diagnostics

Winter isn’t just hard on your suspension and A/C—it’s rough on your engine, too. Extreme temperatures, short trips, and road salt can create the perfect storm for sensor issues and hidden wear. If you’ve seen a check engine light or your car feels sluggish, it’s time for a comprehensive diagnostic check. Our advanced auto diagnostics tools can detect:

Ignition and misfire issues
Fuel system inefficiencies
Emission system failures
Battery and charging problems

If ignored, these small problems often become big ones. Spring is the perfect season to address them before summer road trips and mountain drives.

Spring Vehicle Health Checklist for Boulder Drivers

Whether you’re planning a getaway to Estes or just enjoying the sunshine along the Diagonal, here’s what we recommend every Boulder driver check each spring :

Suspension and alignment
Air conditioning system
Brake performance
Fluid levels and condition
Battery health
Tire pressure and tread depth

At Pellman’s Automotive, we offer all of the above with the quality, transparency, and care you’ve come to expect from a local, family-owned shop that’s proudly served Boulder for over 30 years. And don’t forget to check out our current specials —we often feature seasonal deals to help you save on the services your car needs most this time of year. Whether it's diagnostics, suspension, or A/C service, we've got you (and your vehicle) covered.

Spring in Boulder is Beautiful—Make Sure Your Car Enjoys It Too

Spring in Boulder County brings a sense of renewal—not just for nature but for your car, too. From the lingering winter snow and slush to the fresh sunshine, your vehicle experiences as many seasonal shifts as you do. By giving it the care it needs now, you’ll avoid unexpected repairs and make the most of everything spring in Colorado has to offer. Let Pellman’s help you make the seasonal transition with confidence. Call us or schedule your appointment online today —and get back to enjoying the road, worry-free.

Celebrating 30 Years of Pellman’s Automotive: A Legacy of Trust & Excellence

Tue, 01 Apr 2025 16:22:00 GMT

The smell of fresh oil, the hum of an engine coming back to life, the feeling of grease-covered hands after a hard day's work—these are the moments that built Pellman’s Automotive. Thirty years ago, it was just a dream—one fueled by passion, dedication, and a commitment to serving our Boulder community with honesty and expertise . Today, as we celebrate our 30th anniversary, we reflect on the long days and the hardworking hearts that made this journey possible. Most of all, we celebrate the people—our team, our customers, and our community—who have driven us forward every step of the way. For us, it’s never only about fixing cars—it’s about the satisfaction of helping people, solving problems, and making sure every customer leaves feeling cared for.

Commitment to Excellence & Industry Leadership

As Pellman’s grew, so did Brad and Lisa’s dedication to improving the automotive repair industry as a whole. Over the years, they have served on regional and national industry boards and councils, advocating for better service standards, innovation, and ongoing education for automotive professionals.

Brad's leadership roles have included serving on the ASA Colorado Board from 2010 to 2019, acting as Chairman for five of those years, and participating on the ASE Board of Governors since 2013, where he was appointed Chairman in 2022. Both Brad and Lisa have also proudly served on the TechNet Advisory Council for multiple years, helping guide the future of independent repair shops nationwide.

Under their leadership, Pellman’s Automotive has been honored with numerous awards that reflect their commitment to excellence, including the ASE Blue Seal of Excellence, Colorado Environmental Leader Award, Carquest Excellence Award, Best of the West Auto Repair, and the pinnacle recognition of being named Top Shop in the U.S. by MotorAge Magazine in 2013. Pellman’s has also been consistently voted Boulder’s Best Car Repair Shop, a true testament to the trust and loyalty of the community they serve.
Their passion for excellence extends beyond leadership roles. At Pellman’s, all of our technicians receive specialized technical training, ensuring they stay up to date with evolving vehicle technology and industry best practices.

As a shop, we’re also committed to operating responsibly. We’ve been 100% solar-powered since 2011 and exceed industry standards for recycling and sustainability, reinforcing our commitment to both our customers and the environment.

Brad and Lisa remain lifelong learners and industry advocates, always seeking new ways to improve service, support their team, and provide Boulder drivers with the highest level of automotive care.

The People Who Make Pellman’s What It Is Today

A business is only as strong as its team, and Pellman’s is fortunate to have some of the best in the industry. Our success over the past 30 years wouldn’t be possible without the dedicated, skilled professionals who share our commitment to quality service and customer care. While we've had many amazing team members join the Pellman’s family over the years, two of our longest-standing team members truly deserve special recognition for their unwavering dedication and impact on our journey.

Meet Dan Levin: Part of the Pellman’s Family for 28 Years If you’ve visited Pellman’s in the past two decades, you likely know Dan Levin, our General Manager. His journey with Pellman’s began in 1997 when he first met Brad as a customer. After working off a repair bill at the shop, he discovered a love for the industry and never looked back. Dan’s deep commitment to customer relationships, problem-solving, and the Boulder community has made him an invaluable part of the Pellman’s family. After all these years, he still finds joy in helping people keep their vehicles safe and reliable.

Meet Eric: Part of the Pellman’s Family for 27 Years Another pillar of Pellman’s success is Eric, our Shop Foreman, who has been with us for an incredible 27 years. As a leader in the shop, Eric mirrors our dedication to customer satisfaction and doing the job right the first time. His expertise and mentorship ensure that every repair meets the highest standards, making him a trusted figure among both our team and our customers. At Pellman’s, we’re more than just a repair shop—we’re a family of passionate professionals who take pride in keeping Boulder drivers safe on the road.

For 30 years, Pellman’s Automotive has been about more than fixing cars—it’s about building relationships. We take pride in our customer-first approach, commitment to quality, and the trust we’ve earned from generations of Boulder drivers.

One of our favorite quotes is: "Enter as Strangers, Leave as Friends."
It’s not just a saying—it’s the philosophy we bring to every customer interaction. Whether it’s your first visit or your hundredth, we want you to feel like part of the Pellman family.

A Humble Beginning: From One Bay to a Trusted Boulder Repair Shop

In 1995, Brad and Lisa Pellman took a leap of faith and opened Pellman’s Automotive with just one service bay and two employees—themselves! Brad’s love for cars and helping people, paired with Lisa’s dedication to running a customer-focused business, laid the foundation for what Pellman’s has become today: a trusted, family-owned auto repair shop with 18 employees and an unwavering commitment to quality and care.
Brad moved to Longmont when he was 11 and has been working in the automotive industry since he was 15. His passion for fixing cars was about more than just repairs—it was about keeping people safe and helping them get where they needed to go. Lisa, a third-generation Coloradan and a Boulder native helped grow the business by focusing on exceptional customer service and community connections.
Together, they built Pellman’s Automotive not just as a business but as a place where people could feel confident that their vehicles were in good hands

More Than a Repair Shop: A Community Staple

As we celebrate 30 years of service, we’re filled with gratitude—for our loyal customers, our dedicated team, and the Boulder community that has supported us every step of the way.
While cars and technology have changed, our core mission remains the same:
✅ Provide expert, honest, and high-quality auto repair.
✅ Help customers extend the life of their vehicles and avoid costly breakdowns.
✅ Make every interaction a positive, trustworthy experience.
From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for 30 amazing years . Whether you’ve been with us since the beginning or are visiting for the first time, we look forward to serving you for many more years to come!
Visit Pellman's Automotive at 2560 49th Street, Boulder, CO 80301 , or call us at (303) 938-4050 to schedule your next service .

Looking Ahead: The Next Chapter of Pellman’s Automotive

What Tariffs Could Mean for Your Car Repairs: Higher Costs, Longer Waits & What You Can Do

Wed, 05 Mar 2025 20:39:00 GMT

When you think about tariffs, you probably picture international trade disputes or the price of goods at the store—not necessarily your car repairs. However, tariffs on imported auto parts can directly impact the cost, availability, and timeline of fixing your car. Whether you're dealing with routine maintenance or an unexpected breakdown, here’s what you need to know about how tariffs could affect your wallet and what you can do to stay ahead of the game.

What Are Tariffs, and How Do They Affect Auto Parts?

A tariff is essentially a tax imposed on imported goods. When the U.S. government places tariffs on foreign-made auto parts, suppliers and manufacturers either absorb the extra cost or pass it down to businesses and consumers. Since many car parts—especially those for newer vehicles—are manufactured overseas, tariffs can increase repair costs, cause part shortages, and extend repair timelines for everyday drivers.

For example, parts like brake pads, alternators, suspension components, and even electronic sensors are often sourced from countries like China, Mexico, Japan, and Germany. If tariffs are imposed on these imports, repair shops may face higher costs, longer shipping times, and limited availability, all of which can affect your next service appointment.

How Tariffs Could Impact Your Next Repair Bill

Higher Costs for Parts
If tariffs increase the cost of importing auto parts, those expenses are likely to be passed on to auto repair shops, which means higher prices for customers.
Repairs that involve OEM (original equipment manufacturer) parts could see the biggest price hikes, as many are manufactured overseas.
Longer Wait Times for Parts
Tariffs can disrupt supply chains, leading to delays in part shipments. This could mean longer waits for repairs, especially for specialty components.
If a critical part isn’t readily available, your car might be stuck in the shop for days or even weeks longer than expected.
Potential Shift to Aftermarket Parts
To combat rising costs and availability, some repair shops might rely more on aftermarket or remanufactured parts instead of OEM parts.
Increase in Used & New Car Prices
If new car parts become expensive and hard to find, more people may hold onto their vehicles longer, leading to higher demand for used cars and used parts.
This could mean higher resale values but also higher costs if you need a used part for your repair.

How You Can Prepare for Potential Tariff-Related Auto Repair Issues

Stay on Top of Preventative Maintenance
Regular oil changes, tire rotations, and inspections can help prevent costly breakdowns that require hard-to-find parts. If your car is well-maintained, you're less likely to need an urgent repair that could be affected by tariffs.
Plan Ahead for Major Repairs
If your vehicle is aging or you suspect you’ll need a big repair soon (like brakes, suspension, or transmission work), consider getting it done sooner rather than later to avoid potential price increases.
Ask About Part Options
If your repair shop tells you a part is on backorder or has increased in price, ask about aftermarket or remanufactured alternatives. A reputable shop will let you know if an alternative is a good fit for your car.
Work with a Trusted Auto Repair Shop
Choose a reputable, locally owned repair shop that prioritizes customer service and transparency. At Pellman’s Automotive, we help customers navigate changing industry challenges, find the best parts for their budget, and provide expert repairs you can trust.

Be Proactive & Stay Informed

Tariffs on auto parts may seem like a distant policy issue, but they have real-world consequences for car owners. Higher repair costs, longer wait times, and potential parts shortages could make vehicle maintenance more challenging. By staying proactive with maintenance, working with a trusted repair shop, and planning ahead for major repairs, you can keep your car running smoothly—no matter what trade policies bring.

At Pellman’s Automotive, we’re committed to keeping you informed and your car in top shape. Have questions about a repair or need advice? Give us a call or schedule an appointment today !

Freeze-Proof Your Ride: Car Care Tips for Extreme Cold Temperatures

Wed, 12 Feb 2025 19:46:00 GMT

When winter unleashes its full fury with temperatures plummeting below zero, the readiness of your vehicle is not just about comfort—it's a necessity! Have you ever found yourself in a situation where your car wouldn’t start? Perhaps you just finished loading a handful of groceries, and as you're ready to head home, all you hear is a series of clicks. At Pellman’s Automotive, we specialize in repair and vehicle maintenance that ensures your car can bravely withstand harsh winter conditions so you won't be left stranded in a parking lot, facing the cold without the comfort of a safe, warm ride. Here are some expert tips to help you freeze-proof your vehicle, incorporating best practices for maintenance during winter's coldest days.

1. Battery Strength Check

Extreme cold can sap the life right out of your vehicle's battery. At Pellman's Automotive, we include comprehensive battery inspections to measure charging health and ensure reliability. Confirm your modern vehicle has the correct battery explicitly tailored to engineering specifications for cold weather, and always keep jumper cables or a portable charger handy.

2. Antifreeze Levels

Antifreeze is essential to keep your engine's cooling system from freezing. Our expert mechanics can check and adjust your coolant levels or perform a cooling system fluid replacement to ensure your antifreeze mixture is correct, providing optimal protection against freezing temperatures.

3. Regular Oil Changes

Regular oil changes are essential for keeping your engine protected and running smoothly in cold weather. Winter conditions can cause oil to thicken, making it harder for your engine to start and operate efficiently. It’s important to stay current on your oil changes to avoid unnecessary wear and tear on your engine. Additionally, if you need help determining the correct type of oil suitable for your vehicle and your local environment, we will provide the best advice. Learn more about why quality oil changes matter at Pellman’s Automotive.

4. Tire Inspection and Maintenance

Properly inflated and treaded tires are crucial for safe winter driving. Cold air can decrease tire pressure, increasing safety concerns. Our vehicle maintenance services include tire pressure checks and adjustments, along with recommendations for snow tires if you frequently drive in icy conditions.

5. Defrost Windows Safely

Before parking your car for the night, turn on the defrost setting and set all temperature controls to the hot position while the engine is still warm. This helps prevent potential damage to the plastic components if you try to adjust them when they are frozen in the morning. Although it may not be the most comfortable, keeping the fan blowing on the windshield as the car warms up gradually heats the glass, which helps avoid sudden temperature changes that can crack the glass—similar to how dropping a hot glass container into cold water can cause it to break. Never use hot water to clear ice, as this can also lead to cracks. Keeping your windshield clear with winter formula washer fluid and effective wiper blades is essential for safe driving. At Pellman's Automotive, we offer windshield services, including washer fluid top-offs and wiper replacements. We can also arrange to replace your windshield while visiting Pellman’s for other services.

6. Heating System Efficiency

Ensure your comfort and safety with a fully functional heating system. We can service your vehicle’s HVAC System to keep it in peak condition, ensuring warm and defrosted windows inside your car, which is vital for visibility during frosty drives.

7. Winter Emergency Kit

No one plans to get stranded, but preparing for the worst is part of smart winter driving. Stock your vehicle with an emergency kit that includes winter-specific items such as blankets, gloves, and a snow scraper. You might even want to add a portable stove , or other overnight essentials if you have a mountain adventure on the agenda.

Additional Tips for Freeze-Proofing Your Car

Start Your Car and Let the Engine Warm Up – Give your engine a minute or two to circulate oil before driving, especially in extreme cold.
Keep Your Gas Tank at Least Half Full – Maintaining a higher fuel level prevents fuel lines from freezing. This also ensures that you won’t find yourself stranded without heat if you get stuck in traffic or, even worse, in a snowdrift on a side road.
Precondition Your Battery While Plugged In – Before heading out, warm up your EV’s battery while charging! Most electric vehicles have a preconditioning feature that heats the battery, improving efficiency and extending the range in cold weather. Plus, preheating the cabin while plugged in means you step into a toasty car without draining your battery on the road.
Use a Block Heater – If you live in an area where temperatures fall below -20, diesel owners should consider plugging in a block heater overnight. This will help the engine start more easily in sub-zero conditions

Boulder Winter Car Care Special

We're committed to ensuring your vehicle is ready to face the harshest winter conditions. To help you prepare, we're excited to offer a Winterization Special that includes:

Standard Oil & Filter Change : Regular oil changes are essential for engine health, and our winter-ready oil service ensures your vehicle runs smoothly, even in freezing temperatures.
Winter Blade Replacement : Clear visibility is essential; we'll replace worn wiper blades to keep your windshield clear of snow and ice.
Complete Vehicle Inspection : Our thorough winter inspection checks all critical systems, from brakes to fluids, ensuring your car is fully prepared for the cold months ahead.

This comprehensive service is designed to keep your vehicle running smoothly throughout the winter months.

Schedule An Appointment to Freeze-Proof Your Ride

At Pellman's Automotive, we’re committed to providing top-notch services that keep your car dependable, no matter how low the temperature drops. Give us a call or request an appointment online , and let us prepare your vehicle for the winter ahead — because when it comes to extreme cold, it’s better to be safe than sorry. Stay warm, drive safe, and remember, Pellman's is here to help every step of the way!

Navigating Colorado's New Hands-Free Law: What Every Boulder Driver Needs to Know

Thu, 02 Jan 2025 19:37:00 GMT

Boulder's vibrant street life and picturesque drives into the foothills are about to become safer.

Starting January 1, 2025, Colorado will implement a hands-free law designed to minimize distractions and maximize attention on the road—just in time to keep our daily commutes around Boulder and scenic drives through the Rockies as safe as they are stunning.

As Boulder's trusted auto repair shop, Pellman's Automotive is committed to equipping every driver with the best car care and the most accurate information to comply with Colorado’s new hands-free law. From detailed car repair services to expert advice on the best hands-free devices, our auto service center is here to help you adapt to the changes and maintain your vehicle’s performance seamlessly.

What Boulder Drivers Need to Know:

Hands-Free Required: Whether you’re driving to explore the bustling adventures on Pearl Street or heading out for a weekend in the mountains, you'll need to use hands-free devices to manage your calls and GPS. This new law will mean you may not handle, touch, or use your device outside of voice commands, including pinning it between your ear and shoulder or using it between traffic signals and stops.
Applies to All: This law isn’t just for new drivers or commercial vehicles; it’s for everyone who takes the wheel in Boulder and beyond, ensuring uniform safety across all roads.
Emergencies Excepted: You can still use your phone to make emergency calls. So, if you encounter unexpected wildlife on your drive up to Nederland or need roadside assistance on Canyon Blvd, you can call for help without worry. For the safest option, pull over and put your car in park to avoid any violations.

Avoiding Fines and Enhancing Safety:

What happens if you get caught holding your phone after January 1, 2025? You could face a $75 fine and two points on your license, with higher fines and more license points if you continue to violate the law. Law enforcement officers have the authority to stop drivers if they witness potentially dangerous behavior related to holding a device. For example, you might be pulled over if you're caught holding a cell phone while weaving through traffic on a busy Boulder street, or if an officer notices you checking your phone during stop-and-go traffic near a school zone. In either scenario, the focus is on ensuring that attention remains on driving rather than on handheld devices.

Essential Hands-Free Gadgets:

You're driving on Arapahoe, the Flatirons in your rearview mirror and your smartphone securely mounted. Having the correct hands-free tools will guide you while you remain completely aware of Boulder's cyclists, runners, and everything that appears on the road ahead. Here’s a list of a few gadgets we recommend to create this scenario in your everyday life:

The updated law, which took effect January 1, 2025, adds new layers to Colorado's existing rules against distracted driving. Currently, these rules prohibit texting and manually entering data while behind the wheel.

From 2025 onward, it won't just be about texts and DMs; any use of your phone that involves holding it or using it manually for calls, directions, watching videos, or other actions is off-limits unless you're set up with a hands-free device. Think of it as your phone going "hands-off" while your hands stay on the wheel. By adopting the latest hands-free gadgets, you not only stay on the right side of these new regulations but also enrich your driving experience. Enjoy safer drives whether you’re commuting, carpooling, or cruising through Colorado’s great outdoors, knowing you're keeping Boulder’s roads safer for everyone.

For further details on navigating the changes brought by the new hands-free law in Colorado, visit CDOT’s official page or ask for recommendations on installation locations at your next visit to Pellman’s Automotive, your premier auto service center in Boulder. Although we don’t install these devices, we can suggest some local automotive stereo and accessory specialists.

Remember, staying hands-free isn’t just about dodging fines—it’s about safety. As your go-to auto repair shop, Pellman's Automotive is dedicated to helping you navigate these new laws with the best auto repair Boulder has to offer, ensuring your vehicle is as ready as you are for this new chapter in Colorado driving.

Stay safe, Colorado drivers, and let’s make our roads safer together!

Dashboard Mounts: Check out the iOttie Easy One Touch , a sturdy mount that keeps your phone accessible without it ever needing to be in your hands—ideal for following city streets hands-free. At Pellman’s Automotive, we’ve seen that vent-mounted models can occasionally damage air vents, which is why a dashboard mount like this offers a safer and more dependable solution.
Secure Cup Holder Mounts : How many times have you made a sharp turn only to hear your phone go flying out of the cup holder and onto the floor? Avoid that scenario with this secure cup holder mount.
Bluetooth Car Speakerphones: Upgrade your vehicle with the Jabra Freeway Speakerphone for crystal-clear audio, making hands-free calls as easy as chatting with a passenger.
Integrated Systems: For those with newer vehicles, syncing your smartphone via Apple CarPlay or Android Auto makes accessing your favorite digital tools seamless and straightforward. Page through your trusty vehicle manual for options on integrated navigation systems for your specific vehicle. Navigate, communicate, and entertain without ever touching your device.
Bluetooth Headsets: The Plantronics Voyager Headset is perfect for those who are always on the call, ensuring you can discuss plans or catch up with friends while keeping your hands on the wheel and eyes on the road. Just make sure you avoid headphones or earbuds in both ears- this is illegal and will also result in fines.
Voice-Activated Assistants : Bring Alexa along for the ride with Amazon Echo Auto , letting you voice-control your music, navigation, and more, so you can stay focused on driving through Boulder's beautiful landscapes. You could also consider utilizing voice assistant technology such as Siri or Google Assistant to manage your device without needing to physically handle it. These tools can be activated with simple voice commands to make calls, send texts, or get directions, allowing you to keep your hands on the wheel and focus on the road. Most smartphones and modern vehicles provide easy setup options for these voice services, typically found in your device's settings or vehicle's infotainment system manual, ensuring you can leverage hands-free technology effortlessly while driving.

New Year, New Resolutions: Commit to Car Care Resolutions with Pellman’s Automotive

Tue, 17 Dec 2024 16:07:00 GMT

A Fresh Start for You and Your Car

The New Year is synonymous with new beginnings. Just as we decide to eat healthier or exercise more, considering the health and efficiency of our car can make a significant difference in how we experience the year ahead. Committing to regular vehicle maintenance not only ensures safety but also enhances your car’s performance and longevity—letting you drive with confidence no matter where the road takes you.

Why Car Care Should Be on Your Resolution List

1. Enhanced Safety: Winter roads are notorious for being slippery and unpredictable. A well-maintained vehicle with proper tire traction, effective brakes , and fully functional headlights can make all the difference in preventing accidents.

2. Improved Performance and Efficiency: Regular check-ups and tune-ups at Pellman’s help ensure your car operates efficiently. Services such as oil changes, battery checks , spark plug replacements, alignment adjustments , and fuel system inspections each contribute to reducing wear and tear on your vehicle. These maintenance measures enhance fuel efficiency and lower the chances of expensive breakdowns.

3. Increased Longevity of Your Vehicle: When you take care of your car, it takes care of you. Regular maintenance prevents minor issues from becoming major repairs, extending the life of your vehicle and ensuring it remains a reliable companion for all your adventures in and around Boulder.

4. Reduced Environmental Impact: Well-maintained cars not only run better but are also cleaner for the environment. By keeping your car in top condition, you contribute to reduced emissions and a healthier planet.

How Pellman’s Automotive Can Help

At Pellman’s Automotive, we understand the importance of fulfilling your New Year’s resolutions. Our ASE-certified technicians are equipped with state-of-the-art tools and technology to provide comprehensive care for your vehicle. Here’s how we can assist you in keeping your car care resolutions:

Seasonal-Specific Services: We offer Winter-Specific maintenance, including cooling system flushes, battery checks, and tire inspections, to ensure your car can confidently handle cold and icy conditions. Our Summer-Specific services include air conditioning checks and recharges, radiator coolant flushes, and oil changes to keep your vehicle running smoothly and efficiently in the heat, making every Summer road trip a fun adventure!
Preventative Maintenance: Regular services such as oil changes, brake inspections, and tire rotations are essential, and Pellman’s makes it easy to keep up with your car’s maintenance schedule.
Comprehensive Inspections: Start the year right with a thorough inspection of your vehicle. We check everything from brakes and lamps to steering and suspension, ensuring every part is road-ready.
Customized Service Plans: We understand that every car and driver is unique. Our team provides customized service plans based on your car’s age, your driving habits, and the manufacturer’s recommendations.

As the New Year dawns and you set out on new journeys, make sure your car is as prepared for the year ahead as you are. Let Pellman’s Automotive in Boulder help you achieve and maintain your New Year’s car care resolutions. Visit us and experience the peace of mind that comes with knowing your vehicle is in expert hands. Here’s to a safe, adventurous, and well-maintained start to 2025 - Happy New Year from everyone at Pellman’s Automotive!

As the snowflakes of December settle over Boulder, creating a serene winter landscape, we prepare to close the chapter in another year. It’s a perfect time to reflect and set new resolutions. Not just for ourselves but for our faithful vehicles that navigate us through icy roads and chilly winter winds. Why not extend your resolutions this New Year to include better car care? Here’s why making car maintenance a priority is essential and how Pellman’s Automotive in Boulder can help turn your good intentions into great results.

Beat the Rush: Holiday Shopping Guide for Car Lovers in Boulder

Fri, 22 Nov 2024 21:23:00 GMT

2024 Gift Buying Guide for Car Lovers

Finding the perfect gift for a car enthusiast can often feel like navigating a tricky road with unexpected turns. Whether it’s for a festive Christmas surprise, a heartfelt birthday present, or just a special treat to brighten someone's day, picking the right gift requires a blend of thoughtfulness and creativity. While Pellman’s Automotive is your trusted pit stop for top-notch auto service in Boulder, many of these gifts can be conveniently purchased online or at local retailers. This guide includes practical and personalized automotive delights—from sleek gadgets that enhance the driving experience to custom decor that adds a personal touch to their ride. Let this guide be your roadmap to finding that standout gift, turning each special occasion into an exciting journey of appreciation for the car lover in your life.

Chic & Trendy Car Enthusiast

Driving Glasses: Enhance your driving experience with stylish Maui Jim Laulima Polarized Sunglasses , perfect for glare reduction and clarity on those sunny Boulder drives.

Custom Key Tag: Design a Custom Key Tag for someone who likes to make a statement no matter where they are. These stylish leather tags are the perfect addition to a keyring.

Heated Car Seat Cushion: A Heated Car Seat Cushion like the Snailax Massage Car Seat Cushion not only warms the seat but also provides soothing massage, perfect for long drives and cold weather. It’s a gift of comfort for any car owner.

Dash cams: These make excellent gifts for tech enthusiasts! You can find highly rated models on Amazon, such as the Garmin Dash Cam Mini 2 , which is compact and discreet yet offers high-quality video capture. If you enjoy shopping locally, Car Toys in Boulder, CO is only a five-minute drive from Pellman’s Automotive and has lots of great options like the Momento M7 Dash Camera .

Portable Power Station: Stay powered on the go with the Cobra 200W Portable Power Station . This is perfect for road trips, outdoor adventures, or emergencies, offering 200 watts of power to charge your devices, power small appliances, or even jump-start your vehicle.

Portable Jump Starter : A Portable Jump Starter can be a lifesaver during battery troubles, ensuring peace of mind on the road.

Foodie Car Friend

Travel Mug: Keep your coffee warm on those chilly morning drives with the Ember Temperature Control Smart Mug , a must-have for any commuter.

Travel Fridge: Perfect for road trips or tailgating, the BougeRV 12V Portable Refrigerator keeps snacks and beverages cool or frozen wherever the road may lead.

Adventurous Car Traveler

Portable Tire Inflator/Air Compressor: Ensure they’re never stuck with a flat with the handy and reliable Portable Offroad Air Compressor or Tire Inflater , which is ideal for keeping tire pressure optimal.

Hitch Mount Cargo Carrier: Expand storage space with a Hitch Mount Cargo Carrier , perfect for road trips and outdoor adventures.

Walkie- alkie: Communicate easily on the road or while camping with robust Rocky Talkie Mountain Radio .

Emergency Kit: Be prepared for any roadside emergency with this comprehensive Thrive Roadside Assistance Auto Emergency Kit . Including everything from jumper cables and a first aid kit to an LED flashlight and safety triangle

Neat & Tidy Car Owner

Car Themed Stocking Stuffers

T-shirts: A fantastic gift idea for any car enthusiast! Whether they have a general interest in automobiles or a specific brand, there’s a shirt for everyone. Pick up a Pellman’s Auto T-Shirt today, or for a versatile option, consider this stylish and comfortable car-themed t-shirt . If they're fans of iconic American brands, you can choose from dedicated brand shirts like Chevrolet , Ford , or Dodge .

A Year of Oil Changes: Offer a practical gift with a certificate for a year’s worth of oil changes at Pellman’s , ensuring their vehicle remains in top-notch condition without any hassle.

Socks: Step up the style even in the details with these unique Car-Themed Socks from Heel Tread , which feature various auto motifs and are made for comfort and durability.

AirTag for Car Keys: Never lose your car keys again with the Apple AirTag . Small and discreet, the AirTag can be attached to your car keys to help you keep track of them through the Find My app on your iPhone.

Model-Specific Car Gifts

LEGO Car Sets: For brand loyalists, consider LEGO Car Sets or explore artistic Car Artwork on Etsy.

Artwork of their Favorite car: Imagine how Grandpa, Dad, or any other car enthusiast will light up when he receives a custom portrait of their favorite car. Maybe it’s a car parked out back or the one that they’ve been dreaming of since they turned 16. Check out some top-rated artists on Etsy to fill that empty spot on the wall.

Custom Floor Mats: Order custom floor mats tailored to their vehicle’s specific model, or find universally fitting mats like the WeatherTech All-Vehicle Mats on Amazon, which offer durability and a personalized touch with trim-to-fit design.

Books for Car Enthusiasts

For those who love cars and enjoy a good read, consider these engaging books, perfect for anyone interested in automotive design, off-road adventures, or just a good laugh:

Guide to Colorado Backroads & 4-Wheel-Drive Trails : Ideal for the off-road enthusiast, this book is filled with detailed routes and maps to explore Colorado's scenic backroads and trails. It's a must-have for adventurers eager to discover new terrains with their four-wheel drives. You can find this guide here .

Car Design Book: This book offers an in-depth look into the art and science of automotive design. It's perfect for anyone fascinated by the creative process behind some of the most iconic car designs.

Jerry Seinfeld's Book " The Comedians in Cars Getting Coffee Book ": Known for his passion for cars and comedy, Jerry Seinfeld's book offers a collection of his best comedy work over five decades, making it a fantastic read for anyone looking to combine their love for cars with a good laugh. Check it out here .

History of the Automobile: For those who love a good history book, this book provides a picture of the past. With vivid images of each decade, it’s sure to be the perfect pick for a relaxing evening reader.

Electric Car Lovers

Charging Adaptors: For the electric car enthusiast in your life, consider enhancing their charging options with a versatile Electric Car Charging Adapter . These adapters allow electric vehicle owners to connect their EVs to different types of charging stations, increasing their flexibility when on the road.

Charging Station Membership: Gift a subscription to ChargePoint , which provides access to a vast network of fast chargers across the country, simplifying long-distance travel for electric vehicle owners.

Custom Charging Cable Organizer: This EV Charger Cable Organizer from Amazon keeps charging areas neat and prevents cables from getting tangled or damaged. It's easily mounted on a garage wall for convenient access.

Home Energy Monitor: The Sense Energy Monitor is installed in the home's electrical panel and provides real-time data via a smartphone app on how much power the EV charger and other appliances use.

App-Based EV Service Subscription: Gift a subscription to PlugShare , an app that offers comprehensive services for EV owners, including route planning that highlights charging stops and live availability updates.

Thrilling Driving Experiences

For those looking to give the ultimate thrilling gift this holiday season, consider booking a driving day at one of these exceptional Colorado-based experiences:

Supercar Driving at Oxotic : Give the gift of speed with a Supercar Driving experience at Oxotic . Let them get behind the wheel of world-class supercars on guided tours through some of Colorado's most scenic routes.

Drives at Mile High: Perfect for adrenaline seekers, Drives at Mile High offers the chance to drive dream cars in a controlled environment, providing an unforgettable high-performance driving experience.

The Xtreme Xperience: For those who dream of driving a supercar on a real racetrack, The Xtreme Xperience provides that opportunity at locations across the U.S., including events in Colorado. Get ready to choose from a fleet of the latest supercars and hit the track with professional instruction

Winter Driving Classes : Gift a class at the Bridgestone Winter Driving School , the MasterDrive Experience , or the First Gear Skid School to help them master icy roads with confidence.

Make your shopping count by supporting local Boulder businesses like Pellman’s Automotive, or take advantage of the convenient and diverse online selections. Cater to every desire of the car enthusiasts in your life, ensuring their special day is memorable. For more ideas, see our 2023 Gift Buying Guide . Happy shopping, and enjoy shifting your gift-giving into high gear!

Car Vacuum: Keep the interiors spotless with the powerful BLACK+DECKER Dustbuster Cordless Vacuum . Ideal for quick cleanups, this vacuum offers long battery life and strong suction.

Car Air Purifier: Freshen up the air inside your vehicle with an Aera Smart Diffuser for Fragrances and Essential Oils , designed to eliminate odors and introduce a pleasant aroma.

Car Cover: Protect your vehicle from the elements with a Kayme Car Cover , which offers waterproof, heavy-duty protection against rain, snow, and sun.

Leather Cleaner: Maintain the luxurious feel of your car's leather with Leather Conditioner and Cleaner . It's perfect for cleaning and conditioning without leaving any residue and comes in a classy bottle, perfect for gift-giving.

Car Seat Organizer: Organize your essentials with a durable Carhartt Universal Nylon Duck Seat Organizer , which attaches easily to the back of your seat to provide extra storage.

Car Trash Can with Lid: Keep your car tidy and odor-free with the Car Trash Can , which features a compact design and a lid to contain all trash securely.

Cleaning Wipes: Quickly tidy up spills and surfaces with these convenient Armor All Car Cleaning Wipes . These are great for maintaining a clean interior and are safe on a variety of surfaces.

Air Freshener: Maintain a fresh and pleasant scent in the car with this long-lasting Yankee Candle Car Jar Ultimate Hanging Air Freshener . It's perfect for eliminating odors and creating a refreshing atmosphere.

Sun Protector: Protect the car's interior with this top-rated Car Shade . It offers superior protection and is super durable and convenient to use.

Gift Certificate to a Local Detailer or Car Wash Facility: A practical and thoughtful gift, consider a gift certificate for a Car Detailing Service or car wash. This ensures their vehicle not only runs well but also looks great or check out the Chemical Guys HOL148 16-Piece Arsenal Builder Car Wash Kit on Amazon, complete with wax, polish, towels, and cleaners, perfect for a meticulous detail job.

As the Leaves Fall, So Does Your Tire Pressure: Understanding the TPMS Light

Fri, 25 Oct 2024 13:14:00 GMT

You’re driving through Boulder on a chilly Fall morning. The crisp air, the smell of leaves, and the color of a new season is breaking through. You’ve just started your commute, and as you turn onto Canyon Boulevard, the TPMS light on your dashboard lights up. Panic sets in for a moment. Is it safe to continue driving? What does this mean?

This scenario is familiar to many drivers, especially in Boulder, where the temperature can fluctuate significantly between seasons or even days. As temperatures drop, tire pressure can decrease naturally. Even if your tires were properly inflated during the warm afternoon, that chilly morning air could cause the pressure to fall below the recommended level, triggering the TPMS light.

What is the TPMS Light? The Tire Pressure Monitoring System light is a critical safety feature that monitors the air pressure in your tires. If the system detects a significant drop in pressure in one or more tires, the light will illuminate. While this can happen for various reasons, it's essential not to ignore it, as under-inflated tires can cause blowouts, poor handling, and increased tire wear.

What to Do When the TPMS Light Comes On:

Check the Tire Pressure: Pull over at a safe location and manually check the pressure of all four tires using a tire gauge. Most vehicles have a recommended tire pressure printed on the driver’s side or inside the owner’s manual.
Refill Your Tires: If the pressure is low, refill your tires at a gas station or service shop. If you don’t have the tools or are unsure, bring your vehicle to Pellman’s Automotive, where we can perform a visual inspection and top off your tires free of charge. We also have a place where you can pull up 24/7 and refill on your own at no charge.
Watch for Recurring Issues: If the light comes back on shortly after refilling your tires, this could indicate a slow leak or a more severe issue like a puncture. In that case, it’s crucial to bring your car into Pellman’s as soon as possible.
How Boulder’s Climate Affects Tire Pressure : In Boulder, the climate can be tricky for tire maintenance. Temperature swings, especially during fall and winter, can cause rapid changes in tire pressure. For every 10-degree drop in temperature, your tires can lose about 1 PSI (pounds per square inch). That’s why it’s crucial to stay on top of tire maintenance, particularly during seasonal changes.

If your TPMS light keeps coming on or you suspect a tire issue, our team at Pellman’s Automotive in Boulder can help. We are experts at diagnosing tire problems and ensuring that your car is safe and road-ready. Whether it’s a quick tire refill, a patch for a slow leak, or a TPMS sensor replacement, we’re here to assist you.

Don’t let a simple dashboard light cause you any stress— visit Pellman’s for peace of mind and reliable service today!

Pellman’s Automotive Used Car Pre-Purchase Checklist

Mon, 07 Oct 2024 16:10:00 GMT

At Pellman’s Automotive in Boulder, we know that purchasing a used car can feel like a leap of faith. Our 30 years of experience in offering honest, reliable auto service means we’ve seen it all—good deals, lemons, and everything in between. To help you navigate this important decision, we’ve compiled a used car pre-purchase checklist. Cheers to a confident car-buying journey!

1. Set a Realistic Budget

The excitement of buying a car can make it easy to overspend, but setting a clear, realistic budget from the start will help you stay financially secure. Always be wary of internet “deals”- if it looks too good to be true, there might be a reason. Don’t forget to consider hidden costs like insurance, taxes, registration, and future repairs. For example, if you're eyeing a sporty coupe but find that the insurance premiums skyrocket, it may push you past your comfort zone. Stick to your budget—it’s your first step toward a stress-free purchase.

2. Research the Vehicle’s History

Never skip researching the vehicle’s history. Ask the owner for records or use services like Carfax or AutoCheck to look into the car’s past life—accidents, repairs, ownership history, and more. For example, a 2018 SUV with one owner and consistent service records is usually a safer bet than a car with multiple owners and a spotty history. At Pellman’s Automotive, we take this step seriously to save customers on future repairs.

3. Inspect the Exterior and Interior

When you walk around the car, take note of any scratches, dents, or signs of rust. Look closely at the paint job—does it appear uniform, or do certain sections look freshly painted? This could indicate previous damage. Inside, take your time testing all the controls—windows, lights, seat adjustments, and more. A cracked dashboard or faulty air conditioning system, for example, could lead to costly repairs down the road. At Pellman’s, we recommend checking the tires, too—uneven wear patterns can signal alignment or suspension issues.

4. Take a Thorough Test Drive

The test drive is your chance to get a feel for how the car truly performs. Start by driving on both city streets and highways to see how it handles in different conditions. Does the steering feel smooth and responsive, or is there a slight pull to one side? Listen carefully for any rattles, grinding, or unusual noises coming from the engine. A shaky brake pedal or slow acceleration could be red flags. Pellman’s can help diagnose any concerns you notice during the drive. Make sure all of your accessories work like the sun roof, power mirrors and cruise control.

5. Check for Dashboard Warning Lights

Warning lights on the dashboard should never be ignored. During your test drive, be sure to look for any lights that indicate trouble—such as the check engine, ABS, or oil pressure warnings. If any lights are on, bring the vehicle to a qualified professional to look it over. Warning lights could be an indicator of the current owner’s care of the vehicle because people who ignore warning lights often forgo regular maintenance

6. Get a Pre-Purchase Inspection at Pellman’s

One of the smartest moves you can make before finalizing your purchase is to bring the car in for a professional inspection. At Pellman’s Automotive, our ASE-certified technicians will meticulously inspect every mechanical component of the vehicle, from the engine to the suspension. We’ve saved customers from buying cars with issues like oil leaks or hidden body damage, preventing headaches and unexpected repair costs. You can also use the inspection results to help negotiate the price.

7. Review the Paperwork

Before you sign anything, ensure all paperwork is in order. A clean title is a must, and any warranties or service agreements should be clearly outlined. Previous maintenance records are a huge plus.

By following this checklist and visiting Pellman’s Automotive for a pre-purchase inspection , you’ll ensure that the used car you buy is a smart investment. Our expert team is here to help you make a confident, informed decision—every step of the way!

3. Inspect the Exterior and Interior

Choose Quality Over Convenience: Why You Should Get Your Oil Change at Pellman's Automotive Instead of a Quick Lube

Thu, 05 Sep 2024 21:41:00 GMT

When it comes to maintaining your vehicle, the oil change is one of the most fundamental aspects of car care. While quick lube facilities may seem convenient for a fast oil change, there are several compelling reasons to choose a full-service auto shop like Pellman's Automotive in Boulder for this essential service. Here’s why:

1. Comprehensive Vehicle Checkups

At Pellman's Automotive, an oil change is more than just replacing old oil. Our ASE-certified technicians perform a thorough inspection of your vehicle each time you come in for an oil change. This includes checking fluid levels, brake pads, belts, hoses, and more. These comprehensive checkups can catch potential issues early, preventing costly repairs down the road—a service that quick lube spots often don’t provide.

2. Expertise and Experience

The technicians at Pellman's Automotive are not just skilled mechanics; they are highly trained professionals with extensive knowledge across a broad spectrum of vehicle makes and models. Each technician has undergone rigorous training and holds certifications that surpass the standard qualifications of entry-level lube techs found at quick lube facilities. Unlike these quick-service setups, which prioritize speed, Pellman's team is equipped to handle complex mechanical issues. Our technicians are adept at diagnosing intricate problems and providing tailored advice that takes into account your vehicle’s specific needs and your unique driving habits. This level of expertise ensures that every service we provide is thoughtful, thorough, and optimally suited to enhance your vehicle's performance and longevity.

3. Quality of Products

At Pellman's, we use only high-quality, manufacturer-recommended oil and filters. This ensures that your vehicle is getting the best possible products that promote engine health and longevity. Quick lube facilities often use generic or lower-quality products to keep prices down, which can potentially compromise your vehicle’s performance and even lead to engine damage.

4. Personalized Service with Comprehensive Record-Keeping

At Pellman's Automotive, we pride ourselves on offering more than just vehicle service; we provide a personalized care approach that extends to getting to know you and your vehicle intimately. We maintain detailed records of every service your car undergoes at our facility, allowing us to track its history and identify any trends or recurring issues over time. This proactive approach helps us tailor our recommendations and interventions specifically to your vehicle's needs, ensuring optimal performance and longevity. Our commitment to detailed record-keeping means that each visit builds on the last, contributing to a deeper understanding of your car and a more personalized service experience.

5. Warranty, Roadside Assistance, and Unmatched Accountability

At Pellman's Automotive, we provide an industry-leading nationwide warranty of 3 years or 36,000 miles on all services, underscoring our commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. Complementing this, we also offer nationwide roadside assistance, ensuring that wherever you are, help is just a call away should you need it. Our goal is to build trust through proven quality repairs and professional, honest service. We stand firmly behind every repair and diagnosis, and our team is dedicated to addressing your concerns until you are completely satisfied. This level of accountability is what sets Pellman's apart, offering you peace of mind with every service.

6. No Upselling Pressure

At Pellman's, we believe in honest and transparent service. Our technicians provide recommendations based on what your vehicle truly needs, not on quotas or sales targets like many quick lube facilities. This means you won’t be pressured into unnecessary services or upgrades. Our primary concern is for your vehicle's long-term performance and reliability, and we only recommend services if your vehicle really needs them. By focusing on your car's actual requirements, we ensure that every service enhances your vehicle’s health and your driving experience.

7. Supporting Local Business

Choosing Pellman's Automotive means you're not only supporting a local business but also partnering with a team that has been a cornerstone in the Boulder community for over 30 years. Our long-standing presence has allowed us to build deep relationships within the community, reflecting a level of care and service that national quick lube chains simply cannot match. At Pellman's, we understand the unique needs of Boulder drivers, and our commitment to this community goes beyond just car care—it's about contributing to the community's well-being and sustainability.

8. Commitment to the Environment

At Pellman's Automotive, our commitment to the environment is integral to how we conduct business. We adhere to strict environmental policies designed to minimize our ecological footprint. We employ eco-friendly practices such as using water-based cleaners, recycling used oils, filters, and parts, and responsibly disposing of any waste. Our dedication to sustainability extends to every facet of our service, ensuring that while we care for your car, we also care for the planet. By choosing Pellman's, you're opting for a green-committed auto repair shop that prioritizes both your vehicle's health and environmental responsibility.

9. One-Stop Shop for All Your Car Needs

Unlike quick lubes that focus on easy, high-profit tasks, Pellman's Automotive provides a comprehensive range of services. From brakes to complex engine repairs, our skilled technicians are equipped with the technology and expertise to handle it all. Get peace of mind knowing that a trained professional is caring for your entire vehicle, not just a limited number of items.

Taking the time to properly prepare your car for any journey, near or far, can significantly enhance your safety and enjoyment on the road. Stop by Pellman's Automotive in Boulder, and let our experts help you ensure your vehicle is ready to take you wherever you need to go. Whether you're commuting locally or embarking on a longer trip, we're here to ensure your vehicle is equipped to handle the demands of the road. Safe travels!

When to Use Recirculation in Your Car's AC System: Tips from Pellman’s Automotive in Boulder, CO

Tue, 16 Jul 2024 18:32:00 GMT

As summer temperatures rise in Boulder, it's essential to ensure your car’s air conditioning system is operating at its best. At Pellman’s Automotive, we know how important a reliable AC system is for a comfortable drive. One often overlooked but crucial feature is the recirculation mode. Let’s explore what this feature does and when to use it to maximize your car’s AC efficiency.

Understanding Recirculation Mode

Recirculation mode, usually indicated by a car symbol with a looping arrow inside, is a setting on your car’s AC system . When engaged, it stops the intake of outside air and recirculates the air already inside your vehicle. This can offer several benefits, particularly in various driving situations.

Optimal Times to Use Recirculation Mode

Rapidly Cooling Your Car
On a hot day, when you first get into your car, the interior can be extremely hot. Using recirculation mode with the AC can help cool the car down more quickly. By recirculating the cooler air already inside, your AC doesn't have to work as hard to lower the temperature.
Driving in Heavy Traffic
When stuck in traffic, especially during Boulder’s hot summers, the air quality outside can be poor due to exhaust fumes from other vehicles. Turning on recirculation mode can help keep these pollutants out of your car, ensuring you breathe cleaner air.
Boosting Fuel Efficiency
Using recirculation mode can also enhance your vehicle’s fuel efficiency. When the AC system doesn’t constantly have to cool down hot outside air, it uses less energy, which can lead to better gas mileage over time.
Maintaining Comfort on Long Trips
For longer journeys, particularly on Colorado’s highways, recirculation mode can help maintain a consistently cool temperature inside your car. This can make your trip more comfortable without frequent adjustments to the AC settings.

When to Avoid Using Recirculation Mode

Although recirculation mode has many advantages, there are times when it’s best to switch it off:

Defrosting Your Windows
In the winter or in damp conditions, using fresh air intake is better for defrosting your windows. Recirculation mode can cause the windows to fog up because the moisture inside the car isn't expelled.
Extended Use
If you use recirculation mode for too long, the air inside the car can become stale and stuffy. It’s a good idea to switch to fresh air intake periodically to ensure proper ventilation and air quality.
Driving in Clean Air Areas
In areas with cleaner air and less traffic, like the scenic routes around Boulder, using fresh air intake can provide a more pleasant driving experience without needing recirculation.

Maintaining Your Car’s AC System

Regular maintenance is vital to ensure your car’s AC system, including the recirculation feature, works correctly. At Pellman’s Automotive, we recommend periodic checks and servicing of your AC system. This includes:

Replacing the Cabin Air Filter: A clean air filter can significantly improve air quality and the efficiency of your AC system.
Checking for Leaks and Refrigerant Levels: Ensuring there are no leaks and that refrigerant levels are optimal can prevent potential issues.
Inspecting the AC Compressor and Belts: These components need to be in good condition to ensure the system operates smoothly.

Conclusion

Knowing when to use the recirculation mode in your car’s AC system can enhance driving comfort, improve fuel efficiency, and maintain better air quality inside your vehicle. If you have any questions about your car’s AC system or need a check-up, visit us at Pellman’s Automotive. Our team is dedicated to keeping your car cool and comfortable all year round.

Stay cool, Boulder!

For expert car care and maintenance tips, follow our blog at Pellman’s Automotive, and don’t hesitate to contact us for any of your automotive needs.

Decoding Your Dashboard: Understanding What Those Lights Mean

Mon, 17 Jun 2024 20:11:00 GMT

We understand that seeing a warning light illuminate on your dashboard can be unsettling. It’s important to know what these lights mean and how urgently you need to respond to them. This guide will help you understand some of the most common dashboard lights you might encounter, ensuring you’re well-informed and ready to take action when necessary.

1. Check Engine Light One of the most well-known and often dreaded lights is the Check Engine light. This light can indicate anything from a loose gas cap to a more serious engine malfunction. If this light comes on and stays on, it’s a good idea to bring your vehicle in for a diagnostic check to prevent potential damage to your engine.
More importantly, a flashing check engine light indicates that you should stop using the vehicle immediately and get it towed to Pellman’s Automotive for immediate repair.

2. Oil Pressure Warning This light looks like an old-style oil can and indicates that your engine has low oil pressure. This could be due to low oil levels, a failing oil pump, a leak in the system, or an issue with the oil filter. Do not continue driving as this can cause serious engine damage. Check your oil level immediately, and if the light remains on, call for service.

3. Engine Temperature Warning This light will typically display as a thermometer submerged in liquid and means that your engine is overheating. This could be due to low coolant levels, a problem with the radiator, or a failed water pump. Pull over safely and let your engine cool down before checking the coolant level. Driving with an overheated engine can lead to significant damage. Pellman’s Automotive features an exhaustive roadside assistance program, this would be the time to call for a tow and diagnostic.

4. Battery Alert Illustrated by a battery icon, this light indicates there’s an issue with your car’s charging system. It doesn’t necessarily mean a bad battery; the problem could also be with your alternator or even the battery cables. It’s best to address this light promptly to avoid finding yourself with a car that won’t start.

5. Brake System This light looks like an exclamation mark inside a circle, often accompanied by the word "BRAKE". It can be triggered by something as simple as the parking brake being engaged, or it could indicate that your brake fluid is low, or there’s a problem with your braking system. Ensure your parking brake is fully released; if the light stays on, it’s important to get this checked out to ensure your brakes are working effectively.

6. Tire Pressure Warning Light This light resembles a flat tire with an exclamation point and warns you that one or more of your tires are significantly underinflated. Driving on underinflated tires can cause them to wear out more quickly and even lead to tire failure. Check your tire pressures and inflate them to the recommended level.
Here in Colorado, our wildly varying temperatures can cause these lights to come on more often, as the changing temps will cause your tire pressure to increase and decrease often.

7. ABS Light The Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) light will stay on if the system is in trouble. While your brakes will still work, the anti-lock feature may not engage if you need to stop suddenly. A professional should check this to ensure your braking system functions correctly in all conditions.

8. Airbag Indicator This light shows whether your airbags are active or not. If this light stays on, there is a fault with one or more of your airbags, or the system as a whole. Airbags are crucial for your safety in a collision, so it’s important to have this system checked immediately if the light remains illuminated.
At Pellman's Automotive, we’re here to help you with all your car service needs in Boulder County. If any of these lights come on, don’t hesitate to bring your vehicle to us. We’re equipped to diagnose and repair any issues, ensuring that your car is safe and road-ready. Remember, understanding your dashboard lights is the first step in maintaining your vehicle's health and safety.

Get Your Car Ready for Summer Road Trips with Pellman's Automotive in Boulder County

Tue, 14 May 2024 17:30:00 GMT

Summer is just around the corner, and in Boulder, that means road trip season is upon us. Before you hit the scenic routes of the Rockies or head out to go camping, fishing, hiking, and just enjoying our beautiful countryside, it's essential to make sure your vehicle is as ready for the adventure as you are. At Pellman's Automotive, we want to ensure that your summer road trips are both fun and safe. Here’s a handy checklist to prepare your car for the summer roads:

1. Cooling System Check

Your car’s cooling system works harder during the summer months. Overheating is a common problem that can be avoided with some pre-trip maintenance. At Pellman’s, we’ll check your coolant levels, inspect hoses for wear and tear, and ensure your radiator and water pump are functioning properly to keep your engine cool as you travel.

2. Air Conditioning Maintenance

Comfort is key on a long road trip. If your AC has been underperforming, it’s a good idea to have it checked out. We can recharge your system, check for leaks, and replace the cabin filter if necessary. A well-functioning air conditioner makes those long drives much more enjoyable.

3. Tire Inspection and Rotation

Tires are your car’s first line of defense on the road. We’ll check your tires for wear and ensure they are inflated to the manufacturer's recommended pressure. Proper inflation prolongs tire life and improves fuel efficiency. Don’t forget to check your spare tire as well!

4. Brake Check

The importance of reliable brakes cannot be overstated. We’ll inspect your brake pads, rotors, and fluid levels to make sure you can stop safely, whether you’re navigating the mountain roads or the city traffic.

5. Battery Performance Test

Nothing dampens the spirit of a road trip like a dead battery. Our technicians will test your battery to ensure it holds a charge and replace it if necessary. We also inspect the connections and cables for corrosion to prevent any unexpected hitches on your trip.

6. Fluid Levels Check

Before setting out, it’s crucial to ensure that all your vehicle's fluids are topped up and fresh. This includes oil, brake fluid, windshield washer fluid, and transmission fluid. Fresh fluids keep your car running smoothly and reduce the risk of breakdowns.

7. Lighting and Electrical Systems

Check all lighting—headlights, taillights, brake lights, and indicators—are working correctly to ensure safety, especially for those late-evening drives. We’ll make sure everything’s bright and functioning as it should be.

8. Emergency Kit Update

If you don’t already have an emergency kit in your car, now is the time to assemble one. If you do, check it to ensure all items are in good condition. Your kit should include items like water, non-perishable food items, a flashlight, a first-aid kit, jumper cables, and road flares.

9. Windshield Wiper Replacement

Summer storms can pop up unexpectedly … and don’t forget about clearing all those bugs off of the windshield. Visibility is crucial, so make sure your wipers are in good condition. If they’re leaving streaks or miss spots, it’s time for a replacement.

10. Pre-Trip Inspection

For peace of mind, schedule a pre-trip inspection at Pellman's Automotive. We’ll give your vehicle a comprehensive check-up to ensure everything is in order before you depart.

Taking the time to properly prepare your car for a summer road trip can lead to a more enjoyable and safer journey. Stop by Pellman's Automotive in Boulder, and let our experts help you get road-ready . Whether you’re planning a short trip to the Flatirons or an extended journey across states, we’re here to ensure your vehicle is up for the challenge. Happy travels!

Dodging Boulder's Spring Potholes: A Guide to Protecting Your Vehicle

Fri, 05 Apr 2024 21:02:00 GMT

As the snow melts and the vibrant colors of spring return to Boulder, so too does a less welcome sign of the season: potholes. At Pellman's Automotive, we understand the challenges our local roads face and the impact they can have on your vehicle. Let's dive into why Boulder's potholes form, the damage they can cause, and the critical nature of alignment checks to keep your car running smoothly through spring and beyond.

The Birth of Boulder's Potholes

Potholes are a springtime certainty in Boulder, born from the freeze-thaw cycle that characterizes our winters. Water seeps into cracks in the pavement, freezes, and expands, breaking the asphalt apart. As the ice melts, it leaves behind gaps beneath the surface, which collapse under the weight of passing vehicles into potholes. This natural process , combined with heavy snowfall and plowing, leaves our streets dotted with these car-threatening craters.

The Toll on Your Vehicle

Potholes are more than just a nuisance; they're a hazard to your vehicle's health. Striking a pothole can lead to a range of issues, including:

Tire Damage: Immediate punctures or slow leaks can occur, alongside sidewall bulges that weaken the tire.
Wheel Damage: The force of a pothole impact can bend or crack wheels, leading to dangerous driving conditions and costly repairs.
Suspension and Alignment Issues: Your vehicle's suspension is designed to absorb impacts, but potholes can push this system beyond its limits, resulting in misalignment, damaged shocks, or broken struts.
Exhaust System Damage: Low-riding vehicles risk having their exhaust systems scraped or cracked upon hitting a deep pothole.

The Importance of Alignment Checks in Boulder

After surviving a Boulder winter, a professional alignment check at Pellman's Automotive is more than just preventative care; it's essential maintenance. Misalignment doesn't just lead to uneven tire wear; it can significantly impact your vehicle's handling and safety. Poor alignment causes your car to pull to one side, reduces the lifespan of your tires, and can lead to a less comfortable ride. In the worst cases, it compromises vehicle safety by affecting steering precision at a time when spring showers make Boulder roads slick and hazardous.

What a Bad Alignment Can Cause

Ignoring alignment issues can have a ripple effect on your vehicle's performance and your wallet. Aside from increased tire wear, expect reduced fuel efficiency as your engine works harder to compensate for the drag caused by misaligned wheels. In the long run, the strain on your car's suspension components can lead to premature repairs, turning what could have been a simple fix into a costly ordeal.

At Pellman's Automotive, we're not just about repairs; we're about building a community of well-informed, safety-conscious drivers. As Boulder's preferred general repair automotive shop, we encourage you to bring your vehicle in for a spring check-up , including a comprehensive alignment check. Our expert technicians use state-of-the-art equipment to ensure your car is perfectly aligned, providing peace of mind and a smoother ride.

Spring in Boulder is a time for renewal, not just for nature but for your vehicle as well. By understanding the causes and effects of potholes and the importance of alignment checks, you're taking an important step toward ensuring your vehicle remains safe and reliable. Let's welcome the warmer months ahead with roads that are as ready for adventure as you are. Visit us at Pellman's Automotive, where your vehicle's health is our top priority. Happy spring driving, Boulder!

Spring Into Action: Prepping Your Car for the Warmer Months Ahead in Boulder

Thu, 21 Mar 2024 19:52:00 GMT

As the snow melts and the days grow longer in Boulder, it's time to give your car the TLC it deserves after a long winter. Pellman's Automotive Service is here to guide you through getting your vehicle spring-ready, ensuring it performs optimally for the sunny days ahead. Here's how you can spring into action and get your car prepped for the warmer months:

Wash Away the Winter
Winter in Boulder can leave your car with a coat of grime, salt, and road debris. Start the season afresh with a thorough wash, paying special attention to the undercarriage. This not only restores your car's shine but also prevents rust and corrosion.
Check Your Tires
The fluctuating temperatures can affect your tires' pressure and tread wear. Inspect your tires for signs of uneven wear and ensure they are inflated to the recommended pressure. Consider switching back to all-season tires if you've been using winter tires.
Refresh the Fluids
Winter can be tough on your vehicle's fluids. Check levels and top up or replace fluids as necessary, including engine oil, windshield washer fluid, and coolant. This ensures your car's systems run smoothly and efficiently.
Inspect Your Brakes
Your brakes might have worked overtime on Boulder's slippery winter roads. Have them inspected to ensure they're in top condition. This includes checking the brake pads, rotors, and fluid.
Replace Wiper Blades
After a season of clearing away snow and ice, your wiper blades are likely worn. Spring showers require clear visibility, so replacing old blades is a smart move for safe driving in rainy weather.
Test Your Battery
Cold weather can strain your car's battery. Test it to make sure it's holding a charge and doesn't need replacing. This simple step can save you from unexpected hiccups during spring outings.
Clean the Interior
Don't forget the inside of your car. Remove any clutter, vacuum the seats and floors, and wipe down surfaces. A clean interior makes for a more pleasant and healthier driving environment.
Schedule a Check-up
For peace of mind, schedule a spring check-up at Pellman's Automotive. Our experts will inspect your vehicle's major systems, ensuring everything from the air conditioning to the suspension is ready for spring.

By following these steps, you can ensure your car is as ready as you are for the adventures that lie ahead in Boulder's beautiful springtime. At Pellman's Automotive, we're here to help your vehicle transition smoothly into the new season. Happy spring, and safe driving!

Love Your Car: How to Show Your Vehicle Some Love This Valentine's Day in Boulder

Fri, 09 Feb 2024 17:30:00 GMT

Valentine's Day in Boulder isn't just for romance; it's the perfect time to show some love to one of your most loyal companions – your car. Whether navigating the scenic routes of Boulder or enduring its variable weather, your vehicle deserves care and attention. Here are various ways to pamper your car, ensuring it runs smoothly as a reliable partner on the roads.

Give It a Spa Day
Just like a spa day rejuvenates you, a thorough car wash and detailing can do wonders for your car, especially after driving through diverse terrains like those in and around Boulder. Enhance its appearance and protect the paint and interior from wear and tear.
Sweeten the Deal with an Oil Change
Regular oil changes are essential, particularly considering the varying driving conditions in Boulder. Fresh oil keeps your engine running smoothly, reducing friction and wear.
Pamper with a Tire Check
Your car's tires are crucial for safely navigating the roads, no matter where you are. Properly inflated and aligned tires ensure a smoother ride, better fuel efficiency, and enhanced safety.
Illuminate Your Love with Light Checks
Properly functioning lights are crucial for safety. Show some love by checking all your lights – headlights, brake lights, turn signals, and interior lights. Replace any that are dimming or burnt out.
Sweet Nothings with Fluid Checks
Your car relies on various fluids to stay healthy. Valentine's Day is an ideal time to check these levels and top them off as needed. This ensures your car stays hydrated and functional.
Serenade with a Belt and Hose Check
Belts and hoses in your vehicle may not be glamorous, but they're vital components. Cracks or wear in these can lead to serious mechanical issues.
Whisper Sweet Upgrades
Consider upgrading some aspects of your car to enhance your driving experience – maybe new wiper blades for the changing seasons, a better sound system for enjoying your favorite tunes, or even new seat covers for a fresh look. An especially practical addition for any vehicle is the WeatherTech All-Weather Floor Mats. These mats are perfect for protecting your car's interior from mud, snow, and spills, making them a must-have for keeping your vehicle clean and well-maintained. Small upgrades like these can make a big difference in your overall driving experience.
Enduring Love with Regular Maintenance
The best way to show love to your car is through regular maintenance. Adhering to your vehicle's maintenance schedule is crucial for keeping it in top shape.

This Valentine's Day, while you're spreading love and appreciation in Boulder, don't forget the faithful vehicle that gets you to your favorite destinations. A little car care goes a long way in maintaining a healthy, long-lasting relationship with your vehicle in Boulder. Happy Valentine's Day, and happy motoring!

Preparing Your Vehicle for Boulder's Winter: A Comprehensive Guide

Thu, 01 Feb 2024 17:23:00 GMT

As winter approaches in Boulder, CO, it's crucial to ensure your vehicle is ready to tackle the snowy and icy conditions that are commonplace in our region. Winterizing your car is not just about ensuring it starts on a cold morning; it's about safety and longevity. Here's a guide to getting your car winter-ready, with a special focus on why regular washing is essential due to snow melt, road salt, and de-icers.

Winter Tires

Winter tires are specifically designed to perform in snow, slush, and icy conditions. They have deeper tread depths and specialized tread designs to provide better traction than regular all-season tires. Make sure your tires are properly inflated and the tread is not worn down.

And don’t forget that Colorado enforces traction laws in adverse conditions. For more information on that law, read our write-up here .

Regular Car Washes: A Must in Winter

One aspect of winter car care that's often overlooked in Boulder is the importance of regular car washes. Why? One word: de-icers. While these chemicals and salts are essential for safe winter driving by reducing ice on the streets, it has a corrosive effect on your car.

The Dangers of Road Salt, Magnesium Chloride, and Other De-Icers

Corrosion: De-icers accelerate rust on your car's body and undercarriage. Rust not only damages the appearance of your vehicle but can also lead to mechanical failures, especially in crucial areas like brake lines and exhaust systems.
Safety Risks: Rust can weaken the car's structure, including areas like the frame, suspension components, and even the brake system.

Other Winterizing Tips

Heater and Defroster Check: Ensure your car’s heater and defroster are working efficiently to keep you warm and ensure good visibility.
Emergency Kit : Keep an emergency kit in your car, including a blanket, ice scraper, shovel, sand, or kitty litter for traction, jumper cables, and a flashlight.

Remember, preparing your vehicle for winter in Boulder is not just a safety measure but also a way to protect your investment. Regular maintenance, including washing off the corrosive salts, plays a vital role in ensuring your vehicle stays reliable and retains its value over the years. Stay safe, and enjoy the beautiful Boulder winter worry-free!

Check Your Antifreeze Levels

Your car's antifreeze (coolant) is critical to prevent the engine from freezing in cold temperatures. Ensure the mixture is appropriate for Boulder's winter temperatures, with a usual 50/50 mix of antifreeze and water being adequate for most conditions.

Battery Health

Cold weather can be tough on your battery. Have your battery checked to ensure it holds a charge and that the connections are clean, tight, and corrosion-free. Consider replacing the battery if it's over three years old.

The Ultimate Gift Buying Guide for Car Lovers (2023)

Fri, 15 Dec 2023 19:36:00 GMT

2023 Gift Buying Guide for Car Lovers

With the holiday season upon us, you may be scrambling to find the perfect gift for the car lover in your life. Whether you're shopping for a seasoned car collector, a DIY mechanic, or someone who simply loves the thrill of the drive, our guide is your one-stop resource for finding the perfect gift for them. From the latest in-car technology and high-end gadgets to more outside-of-the-box options, we've scoured the market to bring you the best and most sought-after gifts this year:

1. ThisWorx Car Vacuum Kit
This mini vacuum is perfect for the car or truck of the car lover in your life. Compact and lightweight at 2.4 lbs, it’s incredibly easy to use and comes with an array of attachments to offer greater functionality.

2. TICARVE Cleaning Gel Tool
This unique cleaning gel detailing tool is an excellent and easy way to keep your car clean on the go. It can easily clean vents and other tricky-to-reach spaces, offering greater versatility than other detailing tools.

3. NOCO Car Battery Jump Starter
This powerful, compact jump starter can safely jump-start a dead battery in seconds. It offers an impressive battery life and can provide up to 40 jumpstarts on a single charge.

4. Lifeline AAA Premium Roadkit
This helpful kit from AAA has all the essentials you may need in a roadside emergency. It includes jumper cables, basic tools, a limited first aid kit, a poncho, and helpful information.

5. Tile Pro Tracker This high-performance Bluetooth tracker is the perfect way to keep track of your keys so you never lose them again. They’re also a great way to track your car when it’s parked in a crowded lot or to keep tabs on your teen when they’re out on the road.

6. Car and Driver USB-C Car Adapter
Easily convert your vehicle’s cigarette lighter/48w outlet to a modern USB-C and USB outlet. Now, you can easily keep your phones, tablets, and accessories charged up wherever you go.

7. The Original Keychain Car Escape Tool
While not the most conventional idea, this handy 2-in-1 car safety tool may actually end up saving your life in the event of an accident. It combines a reliable seatbelt cutter with a tempered glass window breaker, allowing you to free yourself from a rollover, flood, or submerged accident.

8. Amazon Echo Auto
This hands-free accessory is the perfect way to use Alexa on the go. With it, you can call and message people using your voice, listen to your favorite music, pick specific songs, and even control your smart home from anywhere.

9. Chemical Guys 16-Piece Car Wash Kit
This robust 16-piece car wash kit contains everything you need to keep your automobile looking its very best. It includes cleaning products to cover everything from your windows to your wheels, with the supplies needed to help you get the job done.

10. Cobra Smart Dash Cam
Stay safe on the roadway with this 1080P smart dash cam. It boasts built-in WiFi and GPS, a 140-degree view, and extras like live police alerts, incident reports, emergency mayday functionality, and so much more.

In a world where cars aren’t just modes of transportation but stand as symbols of personality, history, and technology, your gift is more than simply another item—it reflects a shared enthusiasm and appreciation for these automotive marvels.
With the holidays upon us, don't forget that the joy of gifting comes from the connection it creates. Whether you're a car enthusiast yourself or simply someone appreciating the passion of another, the gift that you choose is a true testament to that bond.

Experience The “Best Oil Change in Boulder” For Yourself

Fri, 03 Nov 2023 18:00:00 GMT

Voted Best Auto Repair/Oil Change in Boulder for 2023

We’re thrilled to share some exciting news with you: our state-of-the-art facility has been voted the "Best Oil Change" in the area. This recognition from the community is a testament to our commitment to unrivaled quality, exceptional customer service, and industry-leading technical expertise. In this post, we'll explore what sets our oil change service apart and why our customers happily trust us with their vehicles.

Unmatched Expertise and Precision Our team comprises highly trained, certified technicians who understand the ins and outs of every make and model on the road. When you bring your car to us, it's in the hands of experts who use state-of-the-art equipment and techniques to ensure your vehicle runs smoothly for years to come. We don't just change your oil; we consider the specific requirements of your vehicle to choose the right oil type and grade, enhancing your engine's performance and longevity.

Superior Quality Products Quality is non-negotiable at our repair shop—we only use top-grade motor oils and premium filters, ensuring that your engine is running smoothly and properly protected from wear and tear. Our selection of synthetic blends, full synthetics, and conventional oils from reputable brands provides options for every type of vehicle and driving condition out there.

Personalized Customer Experience We believe in a customer-first approach. Our service is tailored to your needs, schedule, and preferences. From the moment you enter our center, you'll receive a warm welcome and a transparent service process. We carefully explain each step of the oil change, answer all of your questions, and even provide valuable advice on maintaining your vehicle's overall health.

The Benefit of Choosing Us By choosing our state-of-the-art facility, you experience professionalism in auto care and a focus on customer-centric care. We're the best in Boulder, because we prioritize quality and the customer experience; we are always determined to provide service without compromise. As a beloved and dependable repair shop, our mission is to build trust and offer an experience that changes how you view vehicle maintenance and repair.

Complimentary Visual Inspection When you choose Pellman's Automotive to do your oil change, you're not just getting a bare-bones experience. In addition to the base service, one of our ASE-certified technicians will perform a complimentary visual inspection of your vehicle. They will then openly and transparently convey to you anything they see that could be a hazard to you or your vehicle. Because every time you visit Pellman's we want to make sure you are safe and secure when you get back on the road.

Visit Us Today Whether it's your first visit or you're a returning customer, we're here to provide you with the finest in automotive care and the best oil change around. Book your appointment today and experience the excellence that earned us this prestigious title. Visit us today and discover why we're not just the best place for oil changes but your preferred partner for complete auto care. Experience the advantages of a repair shop where excellence, integrity, and customer focus are at the heart of everything we do.

Remember, regular oil changes are vital to your vehicle's health and your safety on the road. Trust the experts who are recognized for their outstanding service—trust the "Best Oil Change" in the area.

How To Show Your Car Some Love – 7 Tips For Maintaining Your Car

Fri, 12 Feb 2021 16:55:00 GMT

February is a great time of year to give your vehicle some added attention. Maintaining your vehicle is very important, as it will keep you safe on the road, protect your investment and can extend the life of your car. It takes just a little bit of time to maintain your vehicle and you and your vehicle will reap the rewards in the long term. If you’re looking for some fantastic ways to return the favor, try this list of sweet things you can do for your car this Valentine’s Day.

1. Keep the Outside of Your Car Clean

Not only does cleaning your car make it look shiny and new, during our winter months it will remove any mag chloride and road salt that can damage your vehicle’s paint and also cause excessive corrosion and rust on the metal components of your vehicle. It will also increase visibility out of your windshield and windows by cleaning off leftover road spray.

If possible, try to wash your car every time you fill up or at least once a month. We recommend planning your washes around good stretches of weather during the winter months, and since it isn’t a good idea to wash your car in freezing temperatures, doing it during midday sunshine is key. And washing as soon as weather permits after a snowstorm can remove the build-up of road salt and mag chloride. Definitely always choose the underbody cycle option at the car wash. It helps remove the chemicals that are attacking your undercarriage. This will keep your car in good condition and your local automotive technician will thank you. Not to mention how much it could save you in labor costs, which can escalate due to rust caused by these chemicals. Many car washes offer monthly membership packages that could save you money in the long-run, and if you aren’t sure where, we prefer TOUCHLESS car washes. If it is in your budget, consider a full-service detail where they vacuum the interiors and wipe down the exterior, interiors, and glass. If you choose to do it yourself, here are some tips for washing your car at home.

2. Care for Your Car’s Interior

Covid-19 has had us changing our routines and many people are eating inside restaurants less and transporting and eating food in our cars more. Be conscious of leaving that leftover salad container or drink cups in your car, as this could invite unwanted guests and lead to spills and smells. Try to make it a habit to remove any trash in your vehicle every time you get out of your car so it doesn’t pile up. It is a lot easier taking out your trash after each ride than cleaning it out once a month. Top it off with vacuuming the inside of your car and wiping off surfaces at least once a month to keep the interior spotless.

3. Why You Should Upgrade Your Car’s Floor Mats

With our Colorado lifestyle and snow, upgrading your floor mats to weatherproof ones designed to trap water, road salt, mud and sand is a great investment. They keep your car cleaner, protect your vehicle’s floor and minimize what you track into your house. You’ll love having a new place to put your feet, and your car will feel like it’s getting a makeover. Our favorite floor mats are from WeatherTech. They fit perfectly and are made in the USA!

4. Check Your Oil Level and Change Your Oil On Time

Oil is the blood of your car, and without oil, your car would not survive. Make sure you take note of when you need to schedule your next oil change and pay attention to any reminder emails or postcards you might receive. Oil changes are very important to keep your vehicle in good condition. And, if you see a leak under your car, we suggest you go to your local automotive repair shop to ensure you don’t have a serious leak developing.

5. Check Your Tire Pressure

Tire pressure is critical to your car’s health. Low tire pressure can be dangerous and costly, as it can negatively impact braking, steering, and handling. Low pressure can also wear tire treads down more quickly and make your car less fuel-efficient. We recommend checking your tire pressure monthly. If you are not sure how to do this, check out our handy article that will walk you through it or stop by the shop anytime. We’re happy to check your tire pressure for you at no charge.

6. Lights

In order to stay safe at night and to see and be seen, it is important to make sure all your car lights are functioning properly. This is even more important in the winter when nights are longer and weather conditions can limit visibility already. It’s hard to check your car lights because your car lights are normally only on when you’re inside the vehicle. Every once in a while, turn your car and your lights on, get out of the car and take a walk around, or enlist a friend to help you. Make sure to check the headlights, taillights, reverse lights, turn signals, and brake lights. Also, make sure to check your headlight lenses in the daytime. Because headlights now are primarily acrylic, over time they will oxidize and yellow, cutting down your night-time visibility. This condition can easily be remedied at your local auto repair facility and it does not require replacing the light assemblies with new ones. Always stay safe!

7. Easy Does It!

Are you or someone you know all gas and all brake? Unfortunately, this driving style can have a direct impact on your wallet and your car’s longevity. If you are racing from light to light only to sit longer at every red one, or perhaps trying to gain that one extra second by being in front of that next car, we suggest taking it easy and enjoying your private time in your clean and beautiful ride. Consider it me time!

10 Step Checklist for Preparing Your Car for Winter

Tue, 02 Feb 2021 22:54:00 GMT

Winter season is here, and it is time to get your car ready for elements on the road. Since cold weather adds extra demands and can exacerbate existing problems, here are some things to consider:

1.) Standard Maintenance Inspection

It is important to make sure that your car maintenance is up-to-date overall. This will ensure that your brakes, belts and hoses, engine, exhaust system, fluids and filters are in good working order and ready to handle the cold. Change your oil and filter at least every 3000 to 5000 miles.

2.) Check Your Car Battery

In extremely cold temperatures, your car requires more current from the battery to start the engine. In order to avoid a dead car battery on a cold morning, have your local auto repair facility run a battery load test to see if your battery is healthy. Some other items you can look out for are cracked or corroded battery cables and terminals.

3.) Replace Your Windshield Wipers & Fill Your Wiper Fluid

4.) Heater and Defroster

The heater and defroster must be in good working condition for passenger comfort and driver visibility. Your air conditioner needs to be functional as well to ensure proper defrost operation. If your windows are fogging up, make sure the fresh air button is selected.

5.) Inspect (And Maybe Replace) Your Tires

It is highly recommended to examine your tires for remaining tread life, uneven wear, and cupping. You should check the sidewalls for cuts and nicks. If you live in an area that experiences a lot of snowfall, consider snow tires. Snow Tires are made of softer rubber that remains flexible in colder temperatures, and have treads specially designed to keep their grip in snow and ice.

6.) Check Your Tire Pressure

It is important to check that your tires are properly inflated for winter conditions. Cold weather causes air pressure in your tires to drop at approximately 1 PSI per 10 degrees. Therefore, you should monitor your tire pressure once a month, and make sure that you let your tires cool down before checking the pressure. The usual recommended tire pressure is 30-35 PSI, but check your owner’s manual for the exact number. Make sure to rotate your tires as recommended by your technician.

7.) Change Your Oil

Cold weather tends to thicken oil and reduce its ability to circulate through the engine, so make sure that you have fresh oil to keep your car running smoothly. Some experts recommend usings a thinner oil during the winter months, however, make sure to consult your owner’s manual or your local technician to see if that approach is right for your car.

8.) Check Your Belts And Hoses

Your belts and hoses tend to weaken in cold temperatures. Belts and hoses are important in keeping your engine running. You can prepare by checking all belts and hoses for cracks or signs of wear and tear.

9.) Wash Your Car After A Snowstorm

The State of Colorado uses magnesium chloride for deicing paved roads. While less corrosive than road salt, it can still cause damage to your car. Take your car to a touchless car wash frequently during the winter, including an underbody rinse to remove magnesium chloride and dirt from your car.

10.) Carry An Emergency Kit In Your Car

Winter weather can take you by surprise, despite excellent planning. In order to avoid a dangerous situation, you should equip your care with an emergency kit filled with supplies including blankets, flares, a jack, a first-aid kit, flashlight, shovel, food, and kitty litter or sand for traction if you get stuck. Read more about preparing your car emergency care kit here: www.pellmansauto.com/winter-car-emergency-checklist/

Brake Maintenance And Tips For Colorado Drivers

Sun, 09 Jul 2017 22:35:00 GMT

We know how much you all like heading up into the mountains based on how often we perform brake maintenance and change out brake pads at the shop! It’s a simple fact of Colorado life that brakes need more attention because they get a lot more use.

6 TOP BRAKE ISSUES

Brake warning lights. NEVER ignore a brake warning light, it can signal hydraulic leaks, worn brake pads or drums (depending on the type of brakes your car has,) warped rotors and more.

Worn out brake pads. Brake pads are found on disc brakes which are commonly used for front brakes in most passenger cars (some cars have drum brakes on the rear wheels.) As brake pads run down they wear even faster because of their inability to dissipate heat and they throw off more brake dust. If you notice your wheels are quickly covered in black it can be a sign your brake pads are getting low. Squealing brakes, especially when your foot is off the brake pedal, is another sign of wear. Any noise from your brakes warrants your attention.

Warped rotors. Rotors can warp under stress which inhibits your brake pads from applying even pressure. This drastically increases how long it takes for you to stop your vehicle. If your steering wheel shakes when you press the brake it’s likely you have a warped rotor.

Hydraulic leaks. Leaks of brake fluid can lead to sudden brake failure. If you notice a leak under your car or realize your brake pedal pushes to the floor there’s a good chance it’s a leak in the hydraulic brake system. If you are concerned that you have a hydraulic brake leak, you should stop driving immediately and have it towed in for an inspection.

Emergency brake is on. This is an easy one to fix but it often happens that a driver forgets the emergency brake is on. If you feel your car is dragging check the emergency brake first. Driving with the brake on can quickly damage the emergency brake system.

Smoking brakes. Brakes smoke and/or smell when they are overheated and the main reason they get overheated is by constant application of brakes on descents of mountains and hills. If the brakes get to the smoking point, damage has likely occurred (or something is leaking onto your brakes – also bad as this causes the brake pads to glaze up.)

COMMON BRAKE WARNING LIGHTS – DON’T IGNORE THESE!

Here are some common brake warning lights:

Brake fluid level warning light. Brake fluid is low.

Anti-lock braking system warning light.

Fault in hydraulic system/brake fluid level dangerously low.

Parking (emergency brake) is on.

Brake Maintenance Tips

Learn how to brake properly on mountain roads.
Have brake fluid changed every 2 years (or sooner if the fluid looks brown) in order to protect your car’s critical brake components.
Get your brake pads checked frequently, especially if you do a lot of mountain driving.
Don’t ride your brake pedal.
Avoid sudden braking by giving yourself more room between your car and the one in front of you.
When your brake pads need replacing buy the highest quality pad you can afford. Be sure the new pads meet or exceed factory specs.

Tips For Winter Night Driving

Wed, 28 Dec 2016 00:02:00 GMT

DID YOU KNOW?

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), traffic deaths are three times greater at night than during the day.
Speeding is a common culprit in night time driving accidents and deaths. The graph below shows how dramatically reaction time, braking distance and stopping distance are changed by driving at night. The lesson here is when driving at night ALWAYS give yourself more space between other vehicles and reduce your speed.

VISIBILITY IS KEY

MAKE SURE YOUR HEADLIGHTS ARE AIMED PROPERLY.

If you find that while driving with your low beams on, oncoming drivers frequently flash their brights at you, it means your lights are aimed too high. Lights aimed too low reduce your ability to react significantly.

CLEAN YOUR HEADLIGHTS AND WINDSHIELD

Before you head out in the evening check that your headlights and windshield are clean. A smeared windshield produces a halo effect that mak es it hard to see. If you’ve noticed streaks on the glass from failing windshield wipers, replace them immediately. Carry windshield wiper fluid and some newspaper in your winter emergency kit.

CHECK THE CONDITION OF YOUR HEAD LIGHT COVERS

Most vehicles built after the early nineties are equipped with acrylic headlights, which eventually become cloudy from debris that causes abrasions to the lens. Additionally, exposure to weather, pollutants and solar radiation can further diminish the appearance of an otherwise attractive vehicle. But more importantly, it can reduce visibility during night driving. It’s a problem that affects nearly every vehicle make and model, foreign or domestic. When headlights turn cloudy and yellow, it’s primarily caused by the deterioration of the UV layer. The oxidation of this protective layer can make the headlight appear hazy and reduce light output by more than 75 percent, which affects the safety of the driver and ultimately the resale value of the vehicle.
You may have seen advertisements online for DIY headlight restoration. In our experience this is a quick fix that only lasts a few months. We offer professional headlight restoration service. This process includes removing the cloudy and discolored surface and then applying a protective sealant. The service restores clarity and improves luminosity and can increase headlight illumination up to 300%. It’s completely safe to use and compatible with all headlight components. In addition, it comes with a 2-year warranty.

EASE EYE STRAIN

There are several ways to ease eye strain:

Adjust rear and side view mirrors by slightly angling them down to decrease glare

Dim console lights

Keep your eyes moving continually

Avoid looking straight into oncoming headlights, focus on the center line instead

Check with your eye doctor. As eyes age they have much more trouble dealing with glare. Know your limitations and plan your trips accordingly.

SNOW

Car safety experts all agree, if you can avoid driving at night while it’s snowing, do it. The light reflecting properties of snow cause your headlights to reflect light back at you. Low visibility and driving don’t mix. Check the weather forecast before you go. If you have to drive, slow way down, be alert and stop as soon as you can.

WATCH OUT FOR WILDLIFE

If you are traveling through areas with wildlife watch for pairs of eyes. If you see them slow down. Animals are drawn to the lights and might move right in front of you.

ExpressToll Transponder, ExpressToll Switchable Transponder, EZPass: What’s The Difference?

Sun, 20 Nov 2016 21:36:00 GMT

ExpressToll transponder, switchable transponder, EZPass. Yes, it’s confusing! Here’s what you need to know:
ExpressToll transponders and switchable transponders are money saving options for using Express lanes along the Front Range and I-70 corridor. Drivers with either of these transponders have an account with ExpressTol l and receive a discounted rate. Drivers without transponders are billed at a higher rate through License Plate Toll. ExpressToll passes only work in the State of Colorado. Travelers from out-of-state can use the express lanes and are billed via License Plate Toll.
Formerly there was a separate tolling system for users of E470 called EZPass. Fortunately ExpressToll now interoperates with all Colorado tolling facilities so you only need an ExpressToll pass to use all toll roads in Colorado.

What’s an HOV Switchable Transponder and why would I want one?

A HOV switchable transponder in HOV mode.
The Switchable HOV Transponder is the only pass that lets you use the carpool/HOV option (3 or more people) and drive in the express lanes for free. There is a flat fee of $15.00 to receive a switchable HOV transponder. Drivers living and driving along the ExpressToll lane corridors may seriously want to consider getting at least one switchable HOV transponder.
You must use the transponder properly by flipping the switch to HOV in order to get the free rate. If you are using the express lane as a solo driver you must remember to switch back to TOLL or you may receive a ticket (violation costs $250.00.)

If you know you will never use an express lane for HOV you don’t need a switchable transponder. Contact ExpressToll for more information and to sign up to receive an HOV transponder.

Pellman Family Favorite Colorado Road Trips: South Central Colorado

Tue, 24 May 2016 21:14:00 GMT

Summer is here, gas prices remain relatively low. It’s the perfect time to plan a Colorado road trip!

The itinerary for this trip is based on one of our favorite family vacations, way back when our kids were little in 1999. For fun, we dug out some old family photos to prove we were there. But don’t think this itinerary is just for kids, it’s easily adaptable for any age range.
Round trip from Boulder this itinerary will add 598 miles to your odometer. It’s an easy 5-6 day trip that allows you time to explore and can easily be expanded or shortened. The longest driving day is the haul down to the Sand Dunes, about 4-5 hours without stops.

Destination: Great Sand Dunes National Park

Gregory and Melissa floating in Medano Creek, 1999.
June is the perfect time to visit the sand dunes, before it gets too hot and while Medano Creek is in full-flow. Even long-time Colorado residents may not know about the rare surge flow of this creek. As it swells from the spring run-off the water rolls over the sand sheet creating the sounds of waves. Happily for our readers, 5280 Magazine just published an excellent, in-depth article about Great Sand Dunes National Park. It’s chuck full of excellent tips, restaurant and lodging suggestions and does a great job of explaining the geology of the lower San Luis basin.

Destination: Colorado Gators Reptile Park

Melissa and Gregory are getting to touch a baby alligator, with a little help from their Dad.
Young and old alike will get a kick out of Colorado Gators which features not only alligators, but other exotic snakes, turtles, geckos and more. Youngsters can take a class to become a junior reptile handler and oldsters can learn how to wrestle a gator. The reptile park is only 25 miles from the Sand Dunes making it an easy morning diversion from a few days camping at the Dunes or a stop as you head north towards Salida and Buena Vista.

Other Stops To Consider As You Head North

Curious about Colorado’s first green certified cemetery? You’ll find it in Crestone. It feels like a visit to the wild, wild west.

Like horseback riding and spectacular views? Granite Mountain Outfitters, located at the top of Poncha Pass, has beautiful guided trail rides giving you views of the San Luis valley to the south and South Park to the north.

Lunch in one of several friendly restaurants along the Arkansas River in downtown Salida. There’s also a lush, shady park for picnics and playtime.

DESTINATION: MT. PRINCETON HOT SPRINGS RESORT

Located 15 miles south of Buena Vista, in Nathrop, CO, is Mt. Princeton Hot Springs, a non I-70 alternative to Glenwood Springs with lovely accommodations and five non-sulfur geothermal pools. As a side trip, if you haven’t been into Buena Vista lately you should go. Downtown features brewpubs, interesting shops, good local coffee and more.

DESTINATION: FLORISSANT FOSSIL BEDS NATIONAL MONUMENT AND CRIPPLE CREEK

Florissant is home to one of the richest and diverse fossil deposits in the world (over 1700 species of animals and plants.) Learn what creatures lived in Colorado 34 million years ago. A visit to Florissant fossil beds is a day activity. There are no lodging/camping/restaurants in the park (stay in nearby Cripple Creek.) Visit the Florissant Fossil Beds website to get the most from your visit.

You can’t be a true Colorado kid without a ride on one of our state’s old narrow gauge mining trains.
Twenty-five miles down the road is historic Cripple Creek, known for it’s role in the Gold Rush, for mining and gambling. There’s lots of Cripple Creek Events , with plenty of places to stay and eat, along with gambling for the “of age” crowd. Take of tour of the Molly Kathleen Gold Mine ride the Cripple Creek and Victor Narrow Gauge Railroad, and see the Cripple Creek donkey herd wander through town, direct descendants of the areas mining herds.

DESTINATION: GARDEN OF THE GODS

Wrap up your south central Colorado getaway at Garden Of the Gods , a National Natural Landmark, forty-five miles northeast from Cripple Creek, that is not to be missed. The park offers a wide variety of guided and self-guided nature walks, an interactive museum, and numerous other events each day. Spend a leisurely half day at the Garden and still be home in time for dinner.

How To Use Uber and Lyft

Sun, 27 Dec 2015 19:51:00 GMT

Uber and Lyft are two popular alternatives to taxi service (called ridesharing) in the Denver Metro area. If you haven’t used an app-based car service like this before you probably have questions – we know we did.

How Do They Work?

Here’s a short video on how Uber works:

And here’s how to use Lyft:

What About Safety?

Both Uber and Lyft screen their drivers, including a driving and criminal history check. The companies have standards for each vehicle level (learn more: Uber, Lyft )
Basic Uber service, called UberX, requires a model 2000 or newer. Lyft requires a 2003 model or newer for their basic service.
It is important to note that it’s against Lyft and Uber’s policy to allow rides to minors without the account holder or another adult who is 18 or over in the vehicle with them. While some drivers do sometimes give rides to minors, they do so at risk of being deactivated.
A useful and unique part of both Uber and Lyft is that passengers get to rate their drivers (and drivers rate their passengers.) Whenever you open your app to get a ride you can see what drivers are available in your area and see how other passengers have rated the driver. Both companies will deactivate drivers with poor ratings.

Confused About Which Service to Use?

Here’s a nifty infographic comparing the two services:

Source: http://www.taximobility.com/ (Double click on image to enlarge)

Some useful ways to use these services beyond the obvious:

Use ridesharing to extend your public transportation options by picking you up and bridging the gap between where public transportation ends and your destination.
Impress a date. Use Uber Black or Uber Lux.
To retrieve a lost or forgotten item. Left your phone at home? As long as there is someone there to give it to the driver you can have your phone driven to your location. (This applies to other items, too.)
Need to get to the airport after a busy day of work? Arrange for an Uber driver to put your luggage in their trunk before you head to work and then to pick you up when it’s time to head to the airport.
Have a friend that had too much to drink? Send them home with ridesharing.

New Users Get A Discount

For new Uber users use this link and promo code nx1an

For new Lyft users follow this link

What You Should Know About Colorado’s New Restriction Codes To The Chain Law

Wed, 09 Dec 2015 02:36:00 GMT

Effective immediately, Colorado has adopted new restriction codes to the chain law for passenger vehicles, SUVs and small trucks when winter weather causes severe driving conditions. When CDOT (Colorado Department Of Transportation) determines conditions are adverse they may enforce a “Code 15” or “Code 16” restriction.
Cars on the road during Code 15 restrictions must have one of the following to proceed:

Snow tires with at least 1/8″ tread

All weather tires marked M/D (mud/snow) with at least 1/8″ tread

An AWD car with at least 1/8″ tread on the tires

Traction devices (chains/auto sock) for two drive tires

Test your treads.

Fines for cars caught driving under Code 15 restrictions that don’t meet one of the above conditions can be fined $133. Cars blocking traffic who don’t meet the conditions will be fined $657.00.
Code 16 restrictions require all cars on the road have chains or Auto Socks. In 2014 Gifts For Cars , we wrote about the Auto-Sock, and are pleased that it’s been approved as an alternative to chains in Colorado. The Auto-Sock is much easier to install than traditional chains (excellent for the ladies and young drivers in your life.

What You Should Know About Your Car Battery

Wed, 11 Nov 2015 21:05:00 GMT

How A Battery Works

That sinking feeling when your car won’t start…most of us have been there at one point or another and it all could have been so easily prevented. Fortunately knowledge is power and understanding how your battery works, what its limitations are, and how to recognize the warning signs will help not get caught in this position again. First, a short lesson on how a car battery works:

How Long Does A Car Battery Last?

The average life of a battery is 3-5 years. At some point all batteries die. The lead chemical coatings on the battery cell plates deteriorate to the point the battery can no longer provide sufficient charge.

THINGS THAT DECREASE THE LIFE OF A BATTERY

Frequent short driving trips. Your car’s alternator takes over once your battery starts your car. It takes the alternator at least 20 minutes of driving to recharge the battery.

Faulty alternator. If the alternator isn’t working properly it will drain more energy from the battery.

Corroded battery terminals prevent the battery from fully recharging.

Leaving lights on after your car is turned off.

Extreme cold. Cold engine oil is thicker and requires more energy to get it moving. Simultaneously, cold slows down the chemical reactions happening inside the battery.

Extreme heat. High heat can cause the sulfuric acid bath your battery cells live in to evaporate resulting in internal structural damage. (Extreme heat is much harder on batteries than extreme cold.)

HOW DO YOU KNOW WHEN YOU NEED A NEW BATTERY?

The most dramatic way you’ll know you need a new battery is when your car won’t start. Generally, it’s easy to avoiding getting to this point. Part of our regularly scheduled maintenance program here at Pellman’s is to check the health of your battery. Our diagnostic test tells us if your battery is healthy and if not, gives us a general idea of how much life is left.

OTHER WARNING SIGNS

An old battery. To determine the age of your battery look for the 4-5 digit code on the battery cover. Look for a letter (A-L.) The letter tells you the month the battery was made (A=January, L=December.) Following the letter is a number which represents the year the battery was made. A number “1” means the battery was made in 2011. (The rest of the numbers in the code designate where the battery was made.)

Car takes a l ong time to turn over.

Low battery fluid level warnings.

Swollen battery case (usually caused by extreme heat.)

BE SURE TO RECYCLE YOUR OLD BATTERY

At Pellman’s we recycle batteries. If you are the DIY type, please be sure and recycle your old battery. A typical car battery contains up to 20 pounds of lead and a gallon of sulfuric acid. Don’t throw it in the landfill!
Curious how batteries are recycled? Check it out:

Vehicle Inspections

Thu, 11 Sep 2014 05:28:00 GMT

A Pellman’s Automotive Comprehensive Vehicle Inspection is a great way to put your mind at ease when you’re buying a used car or truck, preparing for a road trip, or sending a child off to college. We’ll inspect each component and accurately describe any and all problems or maintenance issues we see, as well as provide a detailed breakdown of what repairs are needed and how much each will cost. We’ll also prioritize these in order of importance, giving you a thorough, accurate snapshot of the vehicles overall condition. Call us for more information!

In some situations, we might need to do additional diagnosis to determine the extent of the problem. If this should happen, we’ll advise you in advance of what procedures are involved and what the additional labor cost will be.

Which Tires Are Best for Your Vehicle?

Thu, 11 Sep 2014 05:27:00 GMT

Which tire is best for your vehicle depends on several factors – not only on the type of vehicle you have (whether four wheel or front wheel drive, for example) but also the kind of driving you typically do. Our service advisors are ready to help you find the tire that’s the best fit for your car, lifestyle, and budget. We offer a complete line of quality tires and can order and install most brands on your car within 24 hours.

Engine Performance Analysis

Thu, 11 Sep 2014 05:24:00 GMT

Engine Performance Analysis and Check Engine Light

When your warning lights are on, or if your vehicle’s everyday performance just doesn’t seem right, remember that our technicians have the best training and the best test equipment at their disposal. They’ll analyze and diagnose the cause correctly and get your car running right again. Our on-line-based information system provides current technical bulletins and keeps us up-to-date on the latest repair procedures. The Pellman’s “Test, Don’t Guess” philosophy insures an accurate diagnosis for today’s increasingly complex vehicles and prevents the installation of unneeded parts.

Here are some typical symptoms that could indicate engine performance problems:

hard start or no start

stalling

poor fuel economy

rough idle

power loss

erratic transmission shifting or poor acceleration

“Check Engine” light is illuminated

Some of the above symptoms could indicate a more serious underlying issue, so it’s important to have these items addressed. Fixing the problem now can save you money in the long run.

To help us diagnose your problem faster and more efficiently, it helps to have as much information as possible. Please print and fill out the following drivability worksheet and bring it in with you when you drop off your car. It can also be faxed to us at 303-998-0091.

When your warning lights are on, or if your vehicle’s everyday performance just doesn’t seem right, remember that our technicians have the best training and the best test equipment at their disposal. They’ll analyze and diagnose the cause correctly and get your car running right again. Our on-line-based information system provides current technical bulletins and keeps us up-to-date on the latest repair procedures. The Pellman’s “Test, Don’t Guess” philosophy insures an accurate diagnosis for today’s increasingly complex vehicles and prevents the installation of unneeded parts.

Here are some typical symptoms that could indicate engine performance problems:

hard start or no start

stalling

poor fuel economy

rough idle

power loss

erratic transmission shifting or poor acceleration

“Check Engine” light is illuminated

Some of the above symptoms could indicate a more serious underlying issue, so it’s important to have these items addressed. Fixing the problem now can save you money in the long run.

To help us diagnose your problem faster and more efficiently, it helps to have as much information as possible. Please print and fill out the following drivability worksheet and bring it in with you when you drop off your car. It can also be faxed to us at 303-998-0091.

Charging System Service

Thu, 11 Sep 2014 05:24:00 GMT

Charging System Service – Recommended every 15,000 miles

Service Includes: Clean battery terminals & posts: Check alternator output: Perform battery load test: Install BG anti-corrosion pads.

Why: Over time corrosion accumulates on the battery posts and terminals to the degree that this build-up begins to drain power from the battery. That’s one of the reasons battery failure is the #1 culprit for calls made requesting roadside assistance. These days, batteries do more than start your car. In today’s electronically-controlled cars, consistent power is essential for proper overall performance.

Motor Vac Fuel Induction Service

Thu, 11 Sep 2014 05:21:00 GMT

Motor Vac Fuel Induction Service – Recommended every 50,000 miles

Service Includes: Perform motor vac and engine de-carbon service using specially formulated chemicals and equipment. Clean fuel injectors, throttle housing, air intake plenum, fuel rails, valves and combustion chambers. This service removes combustion chamber deposits and corrects the balance of fuel and air in the system.

Why: Deposits accumulate on intake valves, injectors, ports, fuel injectors and combustion chambers causing loss of power, rough idle, hesitation, misfire, pinging, knocking, decreased mileage and hard starting. This service will help to restore lost power, fuel economy and performance, as well as, reduce emissions.

Driveline Service

Thu, 11 Sep 2014 05:21:00 GMT

Driveline Service – Usually recommended every 30,000 to 50,000 miles/12,000 to 15,000 miles for some all-wheel and four-wheel drive vehicles (check manufacturer’s recommendation)

Service Includes: Remove and replace old worn-out lubricant from manual transmissions, front and rear differentials, transaxles, and transfer cases. Install gear oil or the additive package required for vehicle application.

Why: Heat, moisture, extreme pressure and loads cause gear oil to break down or to be contaminated, leading to lubrication failure and worn gears. Changing the fluids when scheduled reduces wear and prolongs the life of internal driveline components. All-wheel and four-wheel drive differentials work harder than conventional two wheel drive differentials. For these vehicles, servicing the driveline when scheduled is especially important. With this service, you’ll experience smoother gear shifting, quieter operation and extended component-life, which will reduce major repair costs due to worn gears.

Tire Rotation & Wheel Balance

Thu, 11 Sep 2014 05:20:00 GMT

Tire Rotation & Wheel Balance – Recommended every 6,000 miles/or 6 months

Wheel Balance Service Includes: The wheel is mounted on a balancing machine which spins the wheel to locate the heavier part. A lead weight is then attached to compensate for the heavy part. Many people are pleasantly surprised at how smooth their car drives after balancing all four wheels.

Why: Out-of-balance tires cause a car to vibrate at certain speeds, usually between 50 and 70 mph. A tire is out of balance when one section of the tire is heavier than the others. One ounce of imbalance on a front tire is enough to cause a noticeable vibration in the steering wheel at about 60 mph. Most high quality tires will hold their balance fairly well and go out of balance very gradually. If you notice a vibration that wasn’t there the day before, it is possible that one of the lead balancing weights fell off.

Tire Rotation Service: Tire rotation helps protect tires against uneven wear by moving the tire location on the vehicle. Most tires will exhibit some form of wear based on numerous factors including: wheel alignment, miles driven, driving style and habits, and tire location on the vehicle. By moving or “rotating” the tires as recommended by the vehicle manufacturer, tires may wear more evenly; helping extend total tire life.

Why: Tire rotation and wheel balancing will prolong the life of your tires and can lead to a more comfortable ride.

Wheel Alignment Inspection

Thu, 11 Sep 2014 05:19:00 GMT

Wheel Alignment Inspection – Recommended every 10,000 miles or at least once a year

Service Includes: Road test vehicle; Perform complete steering & suspension inspection; Check & adjust tire pressure; Check all alignment angles for front wheels; Check rear wheels against manufacture specifications to recommend necessary adjustments.

In its most basic form, a wheel alignment consists of adjusting the angles of the wheels so that they are perpendicular to the ground and parallel to each other. The purpose of these adjustments is maximum tire life and a vehicle that tracks straight and true when driving along a straight and level road.

Why: Misaligned wheels are a result of normal wear and tear. They’ll cause your vehicle to pull to one side, reduce your steering performance, reduce gas mileage and ultimately accelerate the wearing of your tires. Proper wheel alignment increases tire life and maintains steering and braking performance.

Service Includes: Road test vehicle; Perform complete steering & suspension inspection; Check & adjust tire pressure; Check all alignment angles for front wheels; Check rear wheels against manufacture specifications to recommend necessary adjustments.

In its most basic form, a wheel alignment consists of adjusting the angles of the wheels so that they are perpendicular to the ground and parallel to each other. The purpose of these adjustments is maximum tire life and a vehicle that tracks straight and true when driving along a straight and level road.

Why: Misaligned wheels are a result of normal wear and tear. They’ll cause your vehicle to pull to one side, reduce your steering performance, reduce gas mileage and ultimately accelerate the wearing of your tires. Proper wheel alignment increases tire life and maintains steering and braking performance.

How important is wheel alignment?

Think of it this way: Research shows that the average car is driven about 12,000 miles per year. A car with toe alignment just 0.34 degrees (Just 0.17 inches) out of specification has dragged its tires sideways for more than 68 miles by the end of the year!

Have your car checked if, when driving on a level road, you notice:

Excessive or uneven tire wear
Steering wheel pulling to the left or right
Feeling of looseness or wandering
Steering wheel vibration or shimmy
Steering wheel is not centered when car is moving straight ahead

Suspension and Steering Service

Thu, 11 Sep 2014 05:18:00 GMT

Suspension / Steering Service – Inspection recommended once a year

Service Includes: Complete inspection, including shock absorbers, struts and springs.

Why: As steering and suspension components wear, your vehicle’s ride and handling suffers, which can result in accelerated tire wear. This routine inspection identifies worn components before the problems compound. We offer a complete line of quality replacement parts for steering and suspension repair.

Service Includes: Complete inspection, including shock absorbers, struts and springs.

Why: As steering and suspension components wear, your vehicle’s ride and handling suffers, which can result in accelerated tire wear. This routine inspection identifies worn components before the problems compound. We offer a complete line of quality replacement parts for steering and suspension repair.

Transmission Service

Thu, 11 Sep 2014 05:11:00 GMT

Transmission Service – Recommended every 30,000 miles/15,000 miles for vehicles used to tow or haul

Service Includes: Rather than just removing the fluid found in the bottom of the pan, the entire transmission is cleaned and replenished with the use of special equipment. The transmission and its torque converter have all of their old contaminated fluid removed while new fluid and premium conditioners are added. We also check cooler and hoses for leaks and inspect the shift cable & all linkages.
Why: When exposed to the high heat of modern transmissions, transmission fluid deteriorates over time, turning from a clean red to burned brown color, reducing its effectiveness. Deposits also begin to form around the transmission’s many moving parts, resulting in valves that stick and gears that slip or are sluggish and chatter as they shift. This service preserves the proper function of the transmission and reduces internal wear resulting in lower transmission failure rates.
Your transmission is one of the hardest working parts of your vehicle. With this service it will shift smoothly and effortlessly for many more trouble-free miles.

Valve body spool with heavy deposit build-up.

Valve body spool after BG Transmission service.

Cooling System Service

Thu, 11 Sep 2014 05:04:00 GMT

Cooling System Service

Recommended every 3 years or 30,000 miles Service Includes: First, the entire cooling system is cleaned, then all debris and worn out coolant is completely removed from the system. Check all hoses & belts; Pressure test cooling system; Check heater, defroster & cooling fan operation; Refill antifreeze coolant; Ensure proper pH balance & maximum protection; Check for leaks. Conditioners are also included to prevent rust and corrosion and BG Universal Cooling System Sealer is also included to help prevent leaks.

Why: Over time, coolant is depleted of buffering ingredients and becomes extremely corrosive, literally eating holes in cooling system components. By-products of corrosion damage, as well as rust and scale, clog the passageways that conduct the water through the radiator and choke off the flow. This may result in an overheated engine that can be damaged beyond repair. Changing antifreeze regularly helps prevent premature failure of the radiator and water pump.

Oil Change and Lubrication

Thu, 11 Sep 2014 04:52:00 GMT

Oil change & Lubrication- Recommended every 3,000 miles.

Pellman’s Automotive has 3 levels of oil change– Basic, Deluxe and Premium —to best fit the needs of your car and your budget.

Basic Oil Change Service Includes: Drain and refill engine oil; Replace oil filter; Lube the chassis

Deluxe Oil Change Service Includes: Drain and refill engine oil; replace oil filter; lube the chassis; install BG MOA to increase engine life, top off fluids, and visually inspect air filter, tire pressure, transmission fluid, power steering fluid, battery, belts, hoses, master cylinder, windshield washer, shocks, windshield wipers, and exhaust system. (Fluid levels checked where design allows)

Premium Oil Change Service Includes: All of the above plus BG CF5 and a more extensive vehicle inspection. Our premium oil change also includes 4 months of complimentary roadside assistance.

Why: Engine oil is the life-blood of your car’s engine – changing it and your oil filter regularly is the single most important thing you can do to keep your car running smoothly. Regular oil changes help avoid long-term problems with internal engine components. This is the least expensive, easiest thing you can do to extend the life of your car. (As Brad likes to say, “It’s cheap insurance!”) Pellman’s Deluxe and Premium oil changes also include vehicle inspections, which helps ensure we find little issues before they become big problems.

See the Results:

After use of BG MOA, a premium engine oil additive with deposit inhibitors:

BG MOA prevented oil oxidation and kept the engine clean throughout a 240 hour triple-length Sequence IIIF engine test.

Before and after use of BG CF5, which maintains a clean fuel system by eliminating deposit build-up:

Sustainable Car Maintenance

Thu, 11 Sep 2014 04:48:00 GMT

Making simple changes to the way you drive and maintain your vehicle can lessen your car’s impact on the environment. Choosing a mechanic dedicated to can make a real difference as well.

Here are 10 tips towards a more eco-friendly car:

Maintenance

Keeping your vehicle running at peak performance will reduce emissions, increase performance, extend its life, and save you money. Regular oil and filter changes are a big part of this maintenance as well as following factory recommended guidelines. When cleaning your car, using a commercial car wash can reduce water consumption considerably, and keep oil and gasoline out of the storm drains.

Keeping your vehicle running at peak performance will reduce emissions, increase performance, extend its life, and save you money. Regular oil and filter changes are a big part of this maintenance as well as following factory recommended guidelines. When cleaning your car, using a commercial car wash can reduce water consumption considerably, and keep oil and gasoline out of the storm drains.

Acceleration and Speed

Did you know that you can save money and help the environment by changing your driving habits? Aggressive driving (speeding, rapid acceleration and braking) can lower your gas mileage by up to 33% and may also raise pollutant emissions. This type of driving can also cause additional wear on your engine, tires, brakes and transmission requiring earlier replacement.
Studies show that fuel economy peaks at about 50-55 miles per hour. Above 60 mph it begins to drop dramatically and you can estimate a 5% loss in fuel efficiency for every additional 10 mph. If you are driving on a fairly flat road, using your cruise control to maintain a constant speed will also increase your MPG.

Did you know that you can save money and help the environment by changing your driving habits? Aggressive driving (speeding, rapid acceleration and braking) can lower your gas mileage by up to 33% and may also raise pollutant emissions. This type of driving can also cause additional wear on your engine, tires, brakes and transmission requiring earlier replacement.
Studies show that fuel economy peaks at about 50-55 miles per hour. Above 60 mph it begins to drop dramatically and you can estimate a 5% loss in fuel efficiency for every additional 10 mph. If you are driving on a fairly flat road, using your cruise control to maintain a constant speed will also increase your MPG.

Recycle Used Engine Fluids, Batteries or Car Parts

Most engine fluids, batteries, and many car parts can now be recycled, or remanufactured and reused. If you need help finding out how to properly dispose of an item, call your local government waste management agency or visit Earth911. Each year, in honor of Earth Day, AAA offers free car battery recycling. Find out more here.

Most engine fluids, batteries, and many car parts can now be recycled, or remanufactured and reused. If you need help finding out how to properly dispose of an item, call your local government waste management agency or visit Earth911. Each year, in honor of Earth Day, AAA offers free car battery recycling. Find out more here.

Reduce drag and weight

When not in use, remove extra items attached to your vehicle that create drag, such as ski racks and cargo carriers. By limiting carrying unnecessary items in your car, you can reduce car weight and improve gas mileage. Every 100 lbs of extra weight reduces your mpg by 1-2%.

When not in use, remove extra items attached to your vehicle that create drag, such as ski racks and cargo carriers. By limiting carrying unnecessary items in your car, you can reduce car weight and improve gas mileage. Every 100 lbs of extra weight reduces your mpg by 1-2%.

Tires

Check the air pressure in your car’s tires monthly; under inflated tires require the engine to work harder and use more fuel to maintain a given speed. Also, make sure the car is in alignment, as unaligned tires wear out faster. When replacing tires, make sure the auto shop or tire store recycles the old ones in an environmentally friendly way.

Check the air pressure in your car’s tires monthly; under inflated tires require the engine to work harder and use more fuel to maintain a given speed. Also, make sure the car is in alignment, as unaligned tires wear out faster. When replacing tires, make sure the auto shop or tire store recycles the old ones in an environmentally friendly way.

Tighten or Fix the Gas Cap

Tighten the gas cap after every fill-up until you hear it click. A loose, cracked or missing gas cap lowers gas mileage and emits harmful emissions.

Tighten the gas cap after every fill-up until you hear it click. A loose, cracked or missing gas cap lowers gas mileage and emits harmful emissions.

Use Air Conditioning Wisely

Try rolling your windows down instead of using your A/C while driving around town. If you need some cool air, consider using you’re A/C in short bursts and re-circulate this cool air. At higher speeds, use your A/C as the extra drag caused by your open windows actually uses more fuel.

Try rolling your windows down instead of using your A/C while driving around town. If you need some cool air, consider using you’re A/C in short bursts and re-circulate this cool air. At higher speeds, use your A/C as the extra drag caused by your open windows actually uses more fuel.

Limit Idling

Idling for more than 10 seconds uses more gas and causes more pollution than simply restarting your engine.

Idling for more than 10 seconds uses more gas and causes more pollution than simply restarting your engine.

Reduce Car Use

Consolidate errands to eliminate unnecessary driving and plan out your trip and route before you leave. According to the United States Transportation Bureau a whopping forty-five percent of daily car trips are for shopping and errands. If you get lost, don’t be embarrassed about asking for directions. Think of all the gas and time you will be saving. Consider joining a car sharing program or carpool.

Consolidate errands to eliminate unnecessary driving and plan out your trip and route before you leave. According to the United States Transportation Bureau a whopping forty-five percent of daily car trips are for shopping and errands. If you get lost, don’t be embarrassed about asking for directions. Think of all the gas and time you will be saving. Consider joining a car sharing program or carpool.

Choose a Sustainable Auto Shop

When choosing a mechanic look for one who is dedicated to sustainable practices and participates in general business and automotive specific recycling. A sustainable auto shop is dedicated to reducing solid waste by reducing and recycling, implementing energy and water saving practices, and being actively engaged in pollution prevention.

Be leery of any shop promising huge energy savings through your purchase of expensive specialty environmental products and services. Do your own homework to determine if these products and services actually deliver the savings that they promise. Some might actually damage your car.

When choosing a mechanic look for one who is dedicated to sustainable practices and participates in general business and automotive specific recycling. A sustainable auto shop is dedicated to reducing solid waste by reducing and recycling, implementing energy and water saving practices, and being actively engaged in pollution prevention.

Be leery of any shop promising huge energy savings through your purchase of expensive specialty environmental products and services. Do your own homework to determine if these products and services actually deliver the savings that they promise. Some might actually damage your car.

Driving in Snow and Ice

Thu, 11 Sep 2014 04:46:00 GMT

Do not go out if you do not need to. If you must drive plan extra time. This will keep you from feeling pressured and taking chances you should not.

Drive slowly at an appropriate speed for the conditions.

Accelerate slowly. This helps your wheels gain traction and keeps them from slipping.

Drive smoothly. Anticipate your stops and starts. Abrupt stops, turns and braking on ice will almost always cause sliding.

Maintain a steady speed while turning.

Allow more distance. Double the distance you normally maintain between your car and the car in front of you.

Consider your route. If you are driving in a place you know well think ahead. Do you want to drive up the hill on South Boulder Road to McCaslin when the roads are icy when you could take Baseline and avoid the incline?

Look ahead. Driving experts say drivers need to keep a sharp eye out for what is happening well up the road. This allows you anticipate possible problems well in advance.

Avoid aggressive drivers. Let them pass you and drive at the speed that lets you feel in control of your vehicle.

Do not rapidly pull out in front of other cars.

4WD vehicles slide on ice just as easily as 2WD vehicles.

CORRECTING SKIDS 101

Every driver on winter roads will experience some sliding. Knowing what to expect and how to react can help immensely. New drivers to snow and ice should practice in an empty parking lot to learn what to expect.

If your car has anti-lock brakes (ABS system) press firmly on your brakes. You will feel your car pulsing. This means the ABS is working. The pumping action creates traction. A light will appear on your dashboard telling you that your ABS System is engaged. This is normal, it does not mean something is wrong with your car. If your car does not have anti-lock brakes, manually pump them with your foot. When you feel the car gain traction then start steering out of the skid.
Driving safety experts suggest the first thing to do when skidding is pick a fixed place (for example, a patch or line on the road) in the direction you want to go and keep your eyes locked on that point. Research shows that when people focus on the thing they are afraid to hit they hit it and that by focusing on where you want to go your body intuitively makes driving corrections. You can see it demonstrated in this video.
Learn about front wheel and rear wheel skids. You can find two informative articles with details about winter driving and correcting for skids from Edmunds and Road Trip America. Nothing however, beats realistic practice and for that consider:

Winter Driving School

Colorado is home to one of the best-known winter driving schools in the country, Bridgestone Winter Driving School. Located in Steamboat Springs, drivers learn and practice how to drive on snow and ice. They also sell an excellent DVD on winter driving skills.

Colorado is home to one of the best-known winter driving schools in the country, Bridgestone Winter Driving School. Located in Steamboat Springs, drivers learn and practice how to drive on snow and ice. They also sell an excellent DVD on winter driving skills.

Winter Car Emergency Checklist

Thu, 11 Sep 2014 04:46:00 GMT

Every car should have a good emergency kit in it.

Here is a list of the things we think you should have on hand:

Small bag/bucket of sand, gravel or kitty litter

Small shovel

Extra mittens, gloves and hats

Flashlight (fresh batteries)

Road flares

Whistle

Blankets

First Aid Kit

Jumper cables

Rope

Cutting device (box cutter, pocket knife)

Duct tape

Gloves

Gallon of water (in a metal container, plastic can freeze and crack in the winter)

Basic tool kit (such as screwdrivers, wrenches and pliers)

Hand cleaner to get all the dirt/grease off that inevitably gets on you

Snack bars that do not go bad

Cell phone charger

Spare set of keys

Car chains or an Auto Sock

Small bag/bucket of sand, gravel or kitty litter
Small shovel
Extra mittens, gloves and hats
Flashlight (fresh batteries)
Road flares
Whistle
Blankets
First Aid Kit
Jumper cables
Rope
Cutting device (box cutter, pocket knife)
Duct tape
Gloves
Gallon of water (in a metal container, plastic can freeze and crack in the winter)
Basic tool kit (such as screwdrivers, wrenches and pliers)
Hand cleaner to get all the dirt/grease off that inevitably gets on you
Snack bars that do not go bad
Cell phone charger
Spare set of keys
Car chains or an Auto Sock

Winter Driving: Visibility is Key

Thu, 11 Sep 2014 04:45:00 GMT

PLEASE don’t drive like this!

In poor driving conditions being able to see (and be seen) is an important safety issue. Fortunately there are inexpensive products and tricks you can use to improve visibility.

Winter windshield wiper blades are heavier blades with a rubber cover that prevents ice build up. They are effective and only cost a few dollars more than regular blades. Regardless of which blades you chose to use, make sure they are in good condition. Our intense sunlight causes blades to deteriorate quickly. It is not unusual for them to wear out yearly or even sooner, even with infrequent use. Do not wait to test them out in a heavy snowstorm. If they are starting to streak, it is time to replace them.

Windshield Wiper Blade Tip: Turn off your windshield wiper blades before you shut off the engine. Otherwise when you start up your car, if the blades are frozen to your windshield, you can stress and possibly burn out the wiper motor. For the same reason, do not expect your wipers to brush heavy snow off your windshield. Brush it first.
Be gentle when raising your wipers from and placing them back on the windshield. We have seen wiper arms break from being lifted too forcefully off the windshield. Windshields can also crack if the wiper arm is allowed to drop on its own. Gently lower them instead.

Keep your windshield wiper reservoir full with cold weather (non-freezing) wiper fluid. Buy a good quality washer fluid with a freeze protection rating well below 32 degrees. Never add water to your washer fluid. Adding water can cause the washer fluid reservoir to freeze and crack.

Verify the defroster fan is working. The defroster system in your car works in conjunction with your air conditioning (AC) system. If your AC system is not working you will have trouble with your defroster. If your windows are fogging up be sure the recirculation button is off (a common problem for young drivers who do not understand how their car works.) Another cause of fogging is too much moisture. Run the air conditioning for a bit to dehumidify the air. This is especially helpful after a day of skiing or sledding when you get back into the car with all of your wet gear.

Get a good quality ice scraper and brush and keep it handy.

Clean all the snow off your car. How many times have you forgotten to brush snow off the roof of your car only to have it slide down onto your windshield and block your view? Not only does this reduce visibility, it can damage your wiper system. Here are the steps we follow when cleaning off our cars:

Start your car and turn the defroster to high for both front and back windshields. When your car is cold this gradually heats up your windshield making it less likely to crack (particularly if your windshield has chips or small cracks in it.)

Brush the snow off your car, starting with the roof and working your way down and around the car. Pay attention to your headlights, taillights and mirrors. Be gentle. Lights of most newer cars have acrylic lens covers. Also most side view mirrors have a special coating on them. Both scratch easily.

Clear your windshields. Now that your defroster has had a chance to work, you can gently raise the wipers and push away melted ice. Use a good quality ice scraper to remove remaining ice on the front windshield. If you have a rear window defroster, clear off the rear window last.

Never use your ice scraper on the inside windows as you can damage the defroster grid and scratch window coatings. It is best to let the defroster do its work.

In poor driving conditions being able to see (and be seen) is an important safety issue. Fortunately there are inexpensive products and tricks you can use to improve visibility.

Winter windshield wiper blades are heavier blades with a rubber cover that prevents ice build up. They are effective and only cost a few dollars more than regular blades. Regardless of which blades you chose to use, make sure they are in good condition. Our intense sunlight causes blades to deteriorate quickly. It is not unusual for them to wear out yearly or even sooner, even with infrequent use. Do not wait to test them out in a heavy snowstorm. If they are starting to streak, it is time to replace them.

Windshield Wiper Blade Tip: Turn off your windshield wiper blades before you shut off the engine. Otherwise when you start up your car, if the blades are frozen to your windshield, you can stress and possibly burn out the wiper motor. For the same reason, do not expect your wipers to brush heavy snow off your windshield. Brush it first.
Be gentle when raising your wipers from and placing them back on the windshield. We have seen wiper arms break from being lifted too forcefully off the windshield. Windshields can also crack if the wiper arm is allowed to drop on its own. Gently lower them instead.

Keep your windshield wiper reservoir full with cold weather (non-freezing) wiper fluid. Buy a good quality washer fluid with a freeze protection rating well below 32 degrees. Never add water to your washer fluid. Adding water can cause the washer fluid reservoir to freeze and crack.

Verify the defroster fan is working. The defroster system in your car works in conjunction with your air conditioning (AC) system. If your AC system is not working you will have trouble with your defroster. If your windows are fogging up be sure the recirculation button is off (a common problem for young drivers who do not understand how their car works.) Another cause of fogging is too much moisture. Run the air conditioning for a bit to dehumidify the air. This is especially helpful after a day of skiing or sledding when you get back into the car with all of your wet gear.

Get a good quality ice scraper and brush and keep it handy.

Clean all the snow off your car. How many times have you forgotten to brush snow off the roof of your car only to have it slide down onto your windshield and block your view? Not only does this reduce visibility, it can damage your wiper system. Here are the steps we follow when cleaning off our cars:

Start your car and turn the defroster to high for both front and back windshields. When your car is cold this gradually heats up your windshield making it less likely to crack (particularly if your windshield has chips or small cracks in it.)
Brush the snow off your car, starting with the roof and working your way down and around the car. Pay attention to your headlights, taillights and mirrors. Be gentle. Lights of most newer cars have acrylic lens covers. Also most side view mirrors have a special coating on them. Both scratch easily.
Clear your windshields. Now that your defroster has had a chance to work, you can gently raise the wipers and push away melted ice. Use a good quality ice scraper to remove remaining ice on the front windshield. If you have a rear window defroster, clear off the rear window last.
Never use your ice scraper on the inside windows as you can damage the defroster grid and scratch window coatings. It is best to let the defroster do its work.

Get Your Car Ready for Winter

Thu, 11 Sep 2014 04:44:00 GMT

It is time to get your car ready for winter. Cold weather puts more demands on your car and exacerbates existing problems.

Here are some things to consider:

Maintenance Inspection: Make sure your car maintenance is current. This is the number one thing you can do ensure that your brakes, belts and hoses, engine, exhaust system, fluids and filters are in good working order and ready to handle the cold. Change your oil and filter at least every 3000 to 5000 miles.

Windshield Wipers: Many drivers discover their windshield wiper blades need replacing and they are out of windshield wiper fluid in our first major snowstorm when they can not see out their windshield. Be proactive and replace your blades every fall before snow season. We recommend rubber clad blades to fight ice buildup. Stock up on windshield washer solvent. Make sure you have a good quality ice scraper and snow brush in your car.

Heater and Defroster: The heater and defroster must be in good working condition for passenger comfort and driver visibility. Your air conditioner needs to be functional as well to ensure proper defrost operation. If your windows are fogging up, make sure the fresh air button is selected.

Examine tires for remaining tread life, uneven wear, and cupping. Check the sidewalls for cuts and nicks. Monitor tire pressures once a month. Let the tires cool down before checking the pressure. Rotate as recommended.

Wash Your Car After a Snowstorm: The State of Colorado uses magnesium chloride for deicing paved roads. While less corrosive than road salt, it can still cause damage to your car. Take your car to a touchless car wash frequently during the winter, including an underbody rinse to remove magnesium chloride and dirt from your car.

Avoid Food Storage in Car and Garage: In cold weather, mice and other animals look for warm places like your car engine. They also like to chew on car wiring. Make your vehicle less attractive by cleaning up food spills when they happen and cleaning up trash regularly. Do not store food in the vehicle (except in your emergency kit in a sealed container.) A metal container is the best choice for storing pet food in the garage.

Emergencies: Be prepared for unexpected snow and ice with an emergency car kit.

Snow Tires/Winter Tires: What’s the Difference?

Thu, 11 Sep 2014 04:43:00 GMT

The terms snow tires and winter tires are becoming intertwined.

In fact most tire manufacturers now define tires made for handling in snow and ice as “winter” tires. Check out most consumer review surveys for tires (like Consumer Reports) and you’ll find snow tires under the “Winter” category. One of the problems with older snow tire designs was the tires were square and bulky. This improved the tire’s ability to grip in snowy conditions but also made for a noisy drive and caused the tires to skate around during highway driving on dry pavement.

With technological advances, tire engineers started designing tires with optimal tread patterns for driving through snow. In addition, the development of more sophisticated rubber compounds resulted in winter tires that were quieter and reduced the unstable handling problems of older snow tires. To differentiate their new “premium” snow tires, tire companies began calling their upper-end snow tires, winter tires.

Do You Need Snow Tires

Thu, 11 Sep 2014 04:42:00 GMT

What is Different About a Snow Tire?

With snow tires it is all about getting a better grip on the road. Better grip comes from using softer, more flexible rubber and tread configurations that bite and dig into snow, slush and ice. Winter tires are also generally narrower than all season tires. Narrower tires propel a car forward better while wider tires tend to float on top of the snow. In bad winter weather these tires are superior for steering and braking.

All Season vs Snow Tires: The Pros and Cons

All-Season Tires
Pros

Cons

Snow Tires
Pros

Cons

We find that the majority of our customers end up purchasing all-season radials. We would be happy to talk to you about your individual circumstances to help you make the choice that is best for you. The condition of your tires is very important. It does not matter what type of tire you have if it is worn out. We recommend replacing your tires when the tread is at the wear indicator mark. Driving on tires until they are legally worn out could lead to less than satisfactory winter driving results. Fall is a great time to buy new tires.

How to Check Your Tire Pressure

Thu, 11 Sep 2014 04:41:00 GMT

The number one thing you can do to extend the life of your tires (including your spare) is keep them inflated at the psi recommended by your car manufacturer.

Check the tire pressure when your tires are cold (not been driven) and ideally in the cool of the day (morning.) It only takes a mile of driving for your tires to warm up. If you have been driving, allow your tires about half an hour to cool down. If you need to fill your tires while they are warm, add an extra 3psi to the recommended optimum tire pressure for your car.

Find the recommended tire pressure for your car. This can usually be found:
On the inside of the driver side door jam or
Inside the glove box or
Inside the fuel door
And also in your car manual
Important! The recommended tire pressure is not the same as the maximum tire pressure, which is found on the sidewall of your tire. If you fill to maximum psi you are overinflating your tires resulting in reduced handling and more tire wear.

Take the caps off the pressure nozzles on your tires. Put them in a safe place.

Using your tire gauge, measure the pressure of each tire. Place the nozzle squarely onto the valve stem of the tire. If you hear air leaking the nozzle is not fit squarely over the valve stem. Sometimes you have to play with the gauge to figure out the best angle to get an accurate reading. If you find your tires need more air go on to the next step. Do not forget to check your spare.

FILLING YOUR TIRES

You have several choices for filling your tires; find a gas station that has an air compressor, buy one that you can use at home or have someone do it for you. We have an air hose outside our office and our customers are welcome to use it for free. The compressors at many gas stations are time operated and you have to pay to use them – about $1.00. (We also find that if you ask they frequently turn on the machine for free.) In any event, it is best to take the pressure reading on your tires before you activate the machine.

Fit the air compressor nozzle firmly onto the tire valve. If you hear leaking air you do not have a firm connection and air is not going into your tire. Readjust the angle and try again. You should feel the air flowing through the tube and hear it filling the tire.
Unless the tire is extremely low it should only take a few seconds to fill. Check the pressure using your gauge. If you overfill, place the tire pressure gauge on the valve and press lightly to allow air to escape. Remember, overfilled tires also reduce driving performance and fuel economy.
Put the valve caps back on the valve stems.

What Your Teen Should Do If They Get a Flat Tire

Thu, 11 Sep 2014 04:40:00 GMT

We have discovered many teens do not understand how dangerous it is to drive on a flat tire or how quickly they can ruin the whole wheel. (In fact most teens do not know the difference between a tire and a wheel).

Even driving to the gas station to add air to a low tire can damage the internal integrity of the tire. If a tire looks low, it should not be driven on.
The scariest form of flat tire is a rapid loss of pressure or a blow-out. Talk to your teen about what to do.

YOUR DAUGHTER IS OFF AT COLLEGE AND GETS A FLAT TIRE DRIVING HOME FROM THE MALL.

What are her options?

We feel that the best option is to call a roadside assistance company like AAA to come and change the tire. There are many reasons for this. Changing a tire by the side of the road can be dangerous, changing a tire with the tools provided with the car can be difficult and it might be after dark or in an unsafe area.
Change out the tire with a spare. Depending on the car the spare may be a regular tire or a small compact one. Here is where she gets to crack her knuckles, pull out the car guide and owner manual, assemble her tools and go to work. It is a bit of a messy job and will probably take 20-30 minutes to complete.This is something she should practice at least once in a non-emergency situation. Most car shops use air tools these days making it difficult to loosen lug bolts with the tools provided with the car. We suggest you buy a four-way lug wrench. (Note: These do not work on all rims. Test it.)
Once the tire is on she should get to a gas station and check the pressure, and get the original tire fixed or replaced as soon as possible.
In an extreme emergency, use a tire sealant. This is a temporary fix that is useful in a tough situation, when there is no cell service, the spare is flat, the lug bolts will not come off, or if the location is dangerous. In general, we do not recommend tire sealants. In newer cars with tire pressure monitoring sensors, tire sealant can ruin the sensor. Also sealants only work on small leaks. Make sure you tell the shop that you used a tire sealant as some sealants are flammable. The repair will require more labor so most shops will charge extra for the repair.

Explain to your teen that no matter what type of flat they have, it will probably require getting the car into a tire store or auto repair shop to get everything checked out. This is especially true with compact spare tires which are not designed to be driven on for any length of time.
Emphasize to your teen, tires are not something to mess around with or ignore!

Great Car-Related Gifts for Teens

Thu, 11 Sep 2014 04:37:00 GMT

Being in the automotive business, we like to give useful gifts to teens that encourage them to care for their cars and drive safely. Here are some of our favorites in a variety of price ranges:

Recommended Books for the New Driver

Lauren Fix’s Guide to Loving Your Car by Lauren Fix, The Car Coach This informative book covers many items a car owner/driver should know. Lauren discusses everything from how to purchase a car to driving tips, maintenance you can do yourself and vehicle vocabulary. One of our favorite parts of this book is the “What if…” section on handling emergencies. “What if my Check engine light comes on? What if my brakes fail? What if I have a blowout on the road?” Perfect for having handy in the glove compartment.
Every Woman’s Quick & Easy Car Care – A Worry-Free Guide to Car Troubles, Trials & Travels by Bridget Kachur This book explains how cars work using easy to understand pictures and diagrams. It gives you step-by-step instructions on how to do basic maintenance yourself. Kachur includes a great troubleshooting section on what symptoms might mean and discusses what to do during a variety of on-the-road emergencies.
This Girl’s First Car: Teenage Girls Guide to Safe Car Care & Easy Maintenance Tips by Stephanie Esterlin This is a very small book that lends itself to being kept in the glove box. It covers most of the basics, like changing a tire and how to jump start a dead battery. We don’t agree with her recommendation to change the oil every 6 months but otherwise think it’s a useful basic book.

How to Find the Right Used Car for Your Teenager

Thu, 11 Sep 2014 04:15:00 GMT

Our daughter, Melissa, recently turned 16 and we went through the same emotions most parents experience when their teen receives a driver’s license. Fear because “She’s driving!” and joy because “I don’t have to drive her everywhere anymore!” As owners of Pellman’s Automotive Service one of the most frequent questions we get asked is “What car would you recommend for my teenager?” And, now we know first hand what it’s like to go through the process of researching, selecting and buying a used car specifically for a teen.

When we started shopping for our daughter we were looking for a car with these qualities:

Safe and able to withstand some abuse from an inexperienced driver
Reliable
Affordable

SAFETY

A few months after our daughter, Melissa, got her license a driver ran a stop sign and slammed into the side of her car. Fortunately no one was injured and the car was easily repaired. But we are grateful we paid close attention to selecting a car for Melissa with as many safety features as we could find.

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) says, 16- to 19-year-olds have four times the risk of being involved in a car crash than older drivers.

“Young novice drivers are at significant risk on the road because they lack both the judgment that comes with maturity and the skill that comes with experience,” according to the ILS. That’s why we suggest a mid-sized car as a teenager’s first car. A teenager’s desire for a sporty car or top heavy SUV are frequently at odds with their skills as drivers. A high performance car or heavy SUV are actually harder to handle in unexpected and emergency situations. Many mid-sized cars perform as well as heavier cars in crash tests. You can review crash test records of the make of car you are considering on the National Highways Traffic Safety Administration website .

Air bags, and if possible, side-air airbags (SABs) , are a safety feature we prefer for young drivers. ( Learn more about SABs ). SABs became available in 2004, but are still not required by law. If you want this safety feature in the car you select be sure and verify it has it. Other safety features to look for are anti-lock brakes, and traction control.

RELIABILITY

Young drivers have enough to focus on without dealing with breakdowns. Fortunately you can get excellent information on auto reliability through Consumer Reports auto surveys . You can check them out at your local library or subscribe online (there’s a month-to-month option for only $5.00.) For an additional fee you can get detailed reports on the specific model, make and year of cars you are considering along with suggested sales prices based on the condition of the car.

The following are the most commonly recommended, highly rated used cars: Acura Integra, Toyota Corolla (1999 or later), Honda Civic EX and Honda Accord EX (1998 or later), Infiniti G20, Subaru Forester 2.5X, Toyota Camry XLE (V6) and LE (4 cylinder), Mazda 3, Mazda Protege (1999-2003), Nissan Altima 2.55 (4 cylinder, 2003 or later). We like the 2004 and newer models of Honda, Toyota and Subaru because of their reliability and enhanced safety features.

AFFORDABILITY

This is the million-dollar question for most people. When you are considering your budget you need to take into account more than just the purchase price. Consider these costs:

Insurance
Car registration
Immediate maintenance/safety needs
Long-term maintenance and repair
Gas mileage

Once you’ve narrowed your search you can start shopping. Try Craigslist to see what’s available locally. There are also car-buying services which are particularly useful if you are strapped for time. Check out cars.com or AAA .

Many of our customers obtain history reports on the cars they are considering. These reports provide information about reported accidents, recalls and sometimes repair information for the specific car you want to purchase. You can find these useful reports at AutoCheck or Carfax .

One of the most important things you can do when you are considering a car is have a professional technician check it out. Pellman’s offers inspection services for cars you are considering. We do a full inspection of the vehicle and give you a detailed listing of what condition we think it is in and what repairs and maintenance items are needed. This information can also help you negotiate the purchase price of a car.

We hope this helps you find the right car for your teen. We’re already keeping our eyes open for when our son turns 16. Maybe they’ll be making cars with top and bottom air bags by then!

Games for Road Trips

Thu, 11 Sep 2014 04:08:00 GMT

We thought you might enjoy some of our time-tested, Pellman's family tried and true car games.

The Car Color Game

Every member of the family picks a color of car and counts the number they see pass by. We outlawed white, since that´s the most commonly colored car. You can set a time limit or a mileage limit and play this game over and over.

Alphabet Road Sign Game

Each person goes through the alphabet choosing letters off signs along the road. Whoever sees the letter first, gets it.

LICENSE PLATE GAMES

Count the States

Easy to play as a family, everyone watches to see how many different state license plates they can spot.

Make Your Own License Plate Phrase

Make a fun phrase out of letters from a license plate. For example PPG 079 might be “Pugs Playing Games.” The first family member to come up with a phrase wins.

OTHER FAMILY ACTIVITIES FOR ROAD TRIPS

Books on Tape/CD/iPods.

We´ll date ourselves by saying when our kids were small we checked out books on tape at the library for our road trip vacations. Now there are all kinds of great options. But in any event, listening and talking about a book together is a wonderful family activity, and unlike movies and handheld electronic games, allows you to still see all of the great scenery you are traveling through.

FOR MORE IDEAS

MomsMiniVan.com has a wonderful, long, list of more road trip game ideas and free printables for car bingo, tic-tac-toe, scavenger hunts and more.

From Kidventurous, here´s a review of various road trip games plus links with even more suggestions.

Edmunds, the car-buying site, offers this list of top 10 car games.

Summer Car Emergency Kit Checklist

Thu, 11 Sep 2014 04:08:00 GMT

Every car should have a good emergency kit in it.

Here is a list of the things we think you should have on hand:

Flashlight (fresh batteries)

Road flares

Whistle

Blankets

First Aid Kit

Jumper cables

Rope

Cutting device (box cutter, pocket knife)

Duct tape

Gloves

Gallon of water

Basic tool kit (such as screwdrivers, wrenches and pliers)

Hand cleaner to get all the dirt/grease off that inevitably gets on you

Snack bars that do not go bad

Cell phone charger

And don’t forget a spare set of car keys!

Gifts for Cars

Thu, 11 Sep 2014 04:05:00 GMT

Unless you are an avid car lover you may overlook the fact that there are several gifts to be used in your car that make useful, much appreciated presents.

Here are some of our favorite ideas: Unless you are an avid car lover

GPS NAVIGATION SYSTEMS

Portable GPS navigation systems are extremely popular and come with a wide variety of features and price points. If you have access to Consumer Reports you can find informative articles and ratings recommendations. Also helpful is the recent CNET article Top Five GPS.

CAR STEREO SYSTEMS

For older cars, a new stereo system offers loads of options. You can get HD radio (which has significantly better sound,) iPod connectivity, CD changers and even GPS in a new system. Crutchfield is one of many useful online shopping sites. Visit their learn page for detailed information on selecting and installing their products. You can also purchase a system and have it installed professionally. Sometimes local car stereo stores run promotions that include free or discounted installation with purchase.

CAR ORGANIZING

Folding Trunk Organizer: There are a variety of trunk organizers available. This one, from The Container Store is well regarded because it folds compactly when not in use.

Travel Valet Car Hanger: For the car traveler that wants to keep a jacket, pants or skirt hanging without blocking the windows, this hanger is designed to hang from the back of the front seats.

KEEP YOUR CAR LOOKING GOOD

Car Wash and Detailing Gift Certificates: a car wash or detail shop are excellent car gifts. We recommend The Puddle (in Boulder) or Black Diamond (in Louisville.) Be sure and check their websites, they often have coupon specials. For more thorough detailing we recommend Details Plus Auto Salon.

Weather Guard Floor Mats: These are special floor mats with a lip along the edges and sloping ridges in the mat that keep dirt, melted snow and ice from soaking into your carpeting and away from your feet. Two places to find them: WeatherTech and WeatherGuard.

Misting: Misting is a service that cleans and sanitizes the ventilation systems of your car. Lisa recently had it done and can definitely tell a difference in her car. You can find out more about car misting here.

Window Tinting: Tinting protects the interior of your car and helps it look new longer. We recommend Details Plus Auto Salon.

SAFETY AND SECURITY

Roadside Assistance Gift Certificate AAA offers 24-hour roadside assistance. Here is a link to purchase a gift membership.

Time Saving Tip: No one likes to have their car tied up for more than a day. Did you know we can arrange for stereo installation, window tinting and many other services while your car is at our shop for maintenance or repairs?

Organize Your Car for Kids

Thu, 11 Sep 2014 04:03:00 GMT

KIDS BACK SEAT ORGANIZERS

THINGS TO WATCH FOR:

Attaches to seat belt or is in some way secured to the car

Waterproof

Easy to clean

Rigid bottom with flexible dividers

Accessible outside pockets for drinks, snacks, markers and the like.

Strong enough to withstand kids use

To have a lid or not? Some models have lids that also serve as trays and writing surfaces. Others find the lids a pain and never use them.

Do you want it to sit on the seat, hang from the front seat headrest or sit on the floor?

Attaches to seat belt or is in some way secured to the car

Waterproof

Easy to clean

Rigid bottom with flexible dividers

Accessible outside pockets for drinks, snacks, markers and the like.

Strong enough to withstand kids use

To have a lid or not? Some models have lids that also serve as trays and writing surfaces. Others find the lids a pain and never use them.

Do you want it to sit on the seat, hang from the front seat headrest or sit on the floor?

A FEW TO CONSIDER:

Cosy Greens® Back Seat Car Organizer is a highly reviewed, affordable organizer. (Would also make a nice gift for new parents.)

High Road Kids Organizer is a nice floor or seat option with thermal storage for holding drinks, snacks. It also has several pockets on the outside to hold books, crayons, water bottles, etc.

Tuffo Family Organizer is a basic option that holds books, toys, stuffed animals and more with pockets on the outside for holding juice and water bottles.

Cosy Greens® Back Seat Car Organizer is a highly reviewed, affordable organizer. (Would also make a nice gift for new parents.)

High Road Kids Organizer is a nice floor or seat option with thermal storage for holding drinks, snacks. It also has several pockets on the outside to hold books, crayons, water bottles, etc.

Tuffo Family Organizer is a basic option that holds books, toys, stuffed animals and more with pockets on the outside for holding juice and water bottles.

Car Organizing Solutions: Keep It Cool/Keep It Hot

Thu, 11 Sep 2014 04:03:00 GMT

An alternative to carrying a cooler in your car is a cooler and warmer container that operates by plugging into the 12volt outlet of your car. This is important if you have medications, liquids or other food items that need to be kept at a consistent temperature. Also handy to keep something cold from the grocery store or hot from the take out restaurant.

Here are a few designed to fit in a car:

Personal Fridge and Warmer
Black and Decker Travel Cooler

Car Organizing Solutions: The Auto Office

Thu, 11 Sep 2014 04:02:00 GMT

WHAT TO LOOK FOR:

Enough space for computer/papers

Accessible, convenient storage for office supplies

Ease of setting up

Security issues (will your papers and computer be visible on the car seat when your car is unattended?)

A FEW TO CHECK OUT:

Mobile Office AutoExec File is designed to sit in front passenger seat. Attaches onto the seat belt. is shaped like a file box. It is highly rated by real estate appraisers, salesmen and people who need their office in their car.

AutoExec Grip Master is one of the ultimate car office organizers. It has a rubberized desk top AND a pull out writing surface along with compartments for holding files, papers, office supplies, etc.

Front and Back Seat Organizers

Thu, 11 Sep 2014 04:01:00 GMT

We searched the web to find you the best selling front and back seat organizers.

THINGS TO THINK ABOUT:

What do you need it for?
Where do you want to put it? Console? Front seat? Front seat floor? Between seats? Hang from passenger seat headrest?
If someone rides with you how often will you have to move it?

Here are some options when you need a place for your phone, sunglasses and a pen or two.

SlipToGrip
CellCup Organizer is an adaptor that fits into a cupholder and holds slots for a phone, glasses and a pen.

We suggest you avoid organizers that hang from vent openings, like this one. Along with blocking air movement through the vent these organizers have been known to break the vent slits, a costly fix.

OTHER FRONT SEAT ORGANIZERS

There are a wide variety of larger front seat organizers for those who need to keep more at hand. Remember these will be safer if buckles or straps attach to your car seat or headrest. One to consider:

HighRoad Driver Organizer. This model is designed to hang from the headrest.It features several compartments and includes a cup holder. You can hang it from the front of the head rest or flip it to the back if you have a passenger. For larger sized front and back seat organizers see Organize Your Car for Kids.

HANG FROM THE HEADREST (BACKSEAT) ORGANIZERS

Things to Think About:

How many back seat passengers do you have?

Is there sufficient room between the front seat and back seat for a hanging organizer?

Does it come with straps that hold the bottom of the container close to the seat? A frequent complaint about these types of products is they do not stay firmly in place.

A couple to Look At:

DIGISON® Car Back Seat Organizer with Insulated Beverage Compartment and Tissue Holder

Back Seat Pet Organizer from Orvis has special pouches for leashes, treats and more

Things to Think About:

How many back seat passengers do you have?
Is there sufficient room between the front seat and back seat for a hanging organizer?
Does it come with straps that hold the bottom of the container close to the seat? A frequent complaint about these types of products is they do not stay firmly in place.

A couple to Look At:

DIGISON® Car Back Seat Organizer with Insulated Beverage Compartment and Tissue Holder
Back Seat Pet Organizer from Orvis has special pouches for leashes, treats and more

Trunk and Trash Organizers

Thu, 11 Sep 2014 04:01:00 GMT

TRUNK ORGANIZERS

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Structured so sides stay upright and do not collapse inward

Non-slip containers with Velcro on bottom so they organizers don’t slide (rubber stoppers for hard bottom floors)

The container itself is not too heavy

Something that folds when you want it out of the way

Adjustable

Dividers

Weighted bottom

If security is an issue look for containers with covers or lids. Here is a creative DIY solution from the Lifehacker website.

Structured so sides stay upright and do not collapse inward
Non-slip containers with Velcro on bottom so they organizers don’t slide (rubber stoppers for hard bottom floors)
The container itself is not too heavy
Something that folds when you want it out of the way
Adjustable
Dividers
Weighted bottom

If security is an issue look for containers with covers or lids. Here is a creative DIY solution from the Lifehacker website.

PRODUCTS TO CHECK OUT

The Folding Trunk Organizer has good reviews at The Container Store and Amazon. This organizer meets many of the above criteria and folds up compactly when not in use.

The Rola Rigid Base Interior Organizer is perfect if you need an organizer with a rigid base and adjustable dividers. At 38 x 15 x 7inches, it is fairly large making it best suited to minivans and SUVS. The best thing about the dividers is they keep items separated; sports gear, groceries, car tools and the like. This organizer is spring–loaded and pops down to lie flat when not in use.

Deler Foldable 4-Compartment Trunk Organizer is highly rated for holding groceries. It includes two insulated compartments are a simple, basic solution to keeping things from rolling around in your trunk.

The Folding Trunk Organizer has good reviews at The Container Store and Amazon. This organizer meets many of the above criteria and folds up compactly when not in use.

The Rola Rigid Base Interior Organizer is perfect if you need an organizer with a rigid base and adjustable dividers. At 38 x 15 x 7inches, it is fairly large making it best suited to minivans and SUVS. The best thing about the dividers is they keep items separated; sports gear, groceries, car tools and the like. This organizer is spring–loaded and pops down to lie flat when not in use.

Deler Foldable 4-Compartment Trunk Organizer is highly rated for holding groceries. It includes two insulated compartments are a simple, basic solution to keeping things from rolling around in your trunk.

TRASH HOLDERS

What to Look For:

Tip proof

Holds decent amount of trash

Easy to clean

Easy to insert and remove

Trash holders come in over the seat hanging models and floor receptacles. Both have their pros and cons. The style you chose is a matter of personal preference.

Here are two that meet the criteria:
2in1 Car Trash Can + Tissue Holder and High Road TrashStand Litter Compact , a weighted, floor model.

What to Look For:

Tip proof
Holds decent amount of trash
Easy to clean
Easy to insert and remove

Trash holders come in over the seat hanging models and floor receptacles. Both have their pros and cons. The style you chose is a matter of personal preference.

Here are two that meet the criteria:
2in1 Car Trash Can + Tissue Holder and High Road TrashStand Litter Compact , a weighted, floor model.

Choosing a Green Auto Repair Shop

Thu, 11 Sep 2014 03:45:00 GMT

With the increased sensitivity to green issues some repair shops are advertising themselves as green. There is no specific definition of green so we want to share information that will help you make an informed decision when choosing your car service provider. Shops that advertise themselves as green may only meet the basic state guidelines while shops that do not include green in their name may go to great lengths to be environmentally friendly.

To be licensed in the State of Colorado all automotive repair shops must meet basic environmental protection standards including, recycling of oil, containment of hazardous solvents, and safe wastewater disposal practices. Beyond the basic requirements of our state there are many things your automotive repair shop can do to be more environmentally friendly.

Basic green business practices. These include buying in bulk, recycling paper, plastic and glass, reducing paperwork, purchasing recycled paper and eco-friendly cleaning products, installing energy-efficient lighting and monitoring water usage.

Shop cleanliness practices. These include cleaning up spills immediately and using contained floor cleaners. If you are checking out an auto repair service look at their service bays. If they are clean it is an indication that business takes environmental practices seriously.

Oil & solvents. There is no getting around the fact many products used in car servicing are hazardous. Green practices include purchasing in bulk, proper recycling and disposal and choosing sprays over aerosols when possible.

Tires. All old tires must be properly disposed of but many still end up in the landfill. Repair shops select a service that comes and collects old tires. Some services send tires in for shredding which becomes the base for athletic fields or mulch. Ask the business what happens to your tires.You can read in detail about our green commitment here.

Time Saving Tips For Your Emissions Test

Thu, 11 Sep 2014 03:41:00 GMT

Drive by a RapidScreen van for an automatic test. Learn more…
Find the average “real time” wait for each emission testing station. Note: the wait time for each location on the website includes the amount of time it takes to perform the test. So if a wait time says 30 minutes that includes 10 minutes waiting in the car line plus 20 minutes for testing.
Consider an alternate testing location (in our area there are tests centers in Boulder, Longmont and Broomfield.) To reduce wait time, AirCare Colorado recommends bringing your car in at these times:

Early mornings (all emissions centers open at 8am including Saturday.)
The middle two weeks of the month.

Avoid the following:

Mondays
The day after a holiday
Lunch time

Please note: We do not provide emissions testing at our shop. Air Care Colorado has a list of all emission testing locations and wait times.

Rapid Screen Emission Testing Vans

Thu, 11 Sep 2014 03:38:00 GMT

Chances are, if you live in the metro area, you’ve driven past a Rapid Screen van. (In Boulder it is usually found on the south-bound entrance ramp from Pearl Street to the Foothills Parkway.) For the vast majority of drivers, this van is your time-saving friend.
As you drive past, the van scans your rear license plate and performs a rapid emissions analysis. If you have two clean rapid scans in a 10-month window that ends two months before your car registration is due (and it’s the year your car is up for emissions renewal) when you receive your vehicle registration renewal card, it will say “Emissions Passed via RapidScreen.” If you have this message you don’t have to take your car to a testing facility. (You still have to pay the $25 fee emissions testing fee.)
The RapidScan vans alter locations each week. Check here for the current schedule and here to determine your 10-month testing window.

TIPS FOR ACCURATE RAPIDSCAN READINGS

Make sure your rear license plate is clean so the scanner can read it.
Warm up your engine (10-15 minutes of normal driving.)
Accelerate at a moderate pace as you drive along the entrance ramp past the RapidScreen van.
Drive past a testing location several different days during your 10-month open window testing period. (Driving past a RapidScan several times on the same day does not count.)
Find out more RapidScreen tips.

Please note: We do not provide emissions testing at our shop. Air Care Colorado has a list of all emission testing locations and wait times.

Quick Facts About the Colorado Emissions Test

Thu, 11 Sep 2014 03:37:00 GMT

Please note: We do not provide emissions testing at our shop. Air Care Colorado has a list of all emission testing locations and wait times.

Emission testing is an important tool to help reduce ground level ozone pollution along the Front Range of Colorado. It is required in many Front Range communities (including Boulder, Louisville, and Lafayette.)

All gas vehicle emission testing in Boulder County is conducted at an Air Care Colorado facility. There are locations in Boulder, Longmont and Broomfield. You can find those here. There is an exception for 1981 and older vehicles. Diesel vehicle emission testing must be done at a Licensed Diesel Emissions Testing Station.

The easiest way to make sure your car passes emissions is to have it regularly serviced.

The test costs $25.00 for most vehicles. Payment may only be made by cash or check.

The majority of cars pass emissions. If you fail your first test, you may have one free retest within 10 calendar days.

In general, vehicles are retested every two years. Even-year models are tested in even years and odd-numbered models tested in odd-numbered years.

There is a 30-day grace period for obtaining your emissions test and motor vehicle registration sticker. There is a $25 per month penalty for going beyond the grace period, up to $100. In addition, you can be ticketed for having expired vehicle tags.

Vehicles do not require an emissions test until their 4th model year.

If your vehicle fails emissions twice and you’ve spent over $715 for emission-related repairs it’s possible to get an emissions test waiver.

One-time hardship waivers are also available.

If you are not able to get your car in for an emissions test you can apply for an extension.

Note: The information for this article came from the Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles website and is subject to change. Please confirm all details on the DMV website or call the DMV for more information.

How Emissions Testing Works

Thu, 11 Sep 2014 03:37:00 GMT

Please note: We do not provide emissions testing at our shop. Air Care Colorado has a list of all emission testing locations and wait times.
When your car goes in for the test here is what happens:

A quick visual safety inspection, including a vehicle identification number (VIN) verification.
The car is driven onto a Dynamometer. A tube is attached to the tailpipe. Then a technician runs your car at various speeds while the dynamometer records carbon monoxide, nitrogen and hydrocarbon emissions.
Your gas cap is tested to make sure the seal is tight enough to prevent hydrocarbons (gas fumes) from escaping into the atmosphere.
You will receive your test results immediately.
Once your car enters the test bay it takes approximately 20 minutes to complete the process.

Quick Tip to Help Your Car Pass the Emissions Test: Be sure your car engine is warmed to operating temperature before the car is tested (10-15 minutes of driving.) “Cold” vehicles emit higher levels of pollution.

7 Steps to a Beautiful Car Interior

Thu, 11 Sep 2014 03:36:00 GMT

Step 1

Pick up, remove all the trash.

Step 2:

Vacuum. This is where all those attachments on your vacuum cleaner come in handy. Cars have tight nooks and crannies that are natural trash collectors. If you can not reach those spaces use a can of compressed air and start with those spaces first as you will be blowing the dirt into the rest of the car. Do not forget the seams of your car seats, armrests and door handles, floor mats (pull them out) and your dashboard. A clean, dry paint brush is useful to clean the vents.

Step 3:

Clean and condition the hard surfaces including the dash, glove compartment, other storage spots, doors, seatbelts and sideboards. A good all-purpose house cleaner does a great job. Spray it on a rag, and then wipe the surfaces. Try an old soft-bristled toothbrush for hard to reach spots. to If you want to use a conditioner (like Armour All) on vinyl surfaces, use the non-glossy type. Products containing silicone make surfaces slippery, create glare and create off-gasses that cloud up your windshield.

Step 4:

Clean upholstery. For cloth use spray upholstery cleaner. If your seats are leather use a leather soap and conditioner. All-purpose cleaner will work on vinyl seats. Avoid conditioning products with silicone. They can stain your clothes.

Step 5:

Carpets. A steam cleaner is perfect for thoroughly cleaning car carpets. If you do not have a steam cleaner, use a good carpet cleaner. Use this on your floor mats as well. Avoid over-wetting and let all carpets thoroughly dry out to prevent mold.

Step 6:

Clean all the interior windows. For streak-free results avoid the sun, spray window cleaner on a rag or paper towel, rub to clean, and shine with newspaper. Note: avoid window cleaners with ammonia if you have tinted windows as it can cause blotching on your windows.

Step 7:

If you want to be really thorough re-vacuum the car. All this cleaning will stir up more dirt.

5 Steps to a Perfect Car Wash & Wax

Thu, 11 Sep 2014 03:35:00 GMT

GENERAL TIPS:

Wash your car in the shade when your engine is cool.
Use cool water and detergent made for cars (it is gentler on your car finish.)
Assemble all your supplies.
If you are washing on a winter day, pick a warm one and wash the car as early in the day as possible to eliminate any chance of water freezing on your car (this applies to car washes and doing it yourself.)
Wash your car on grass to prevent oil, gas and metals from polluting local water sources.

SUPPLIES:

Bucket
Car wash detergent
Hose
2 Soft sponges or lambs wool mitt
Chamois or soft towels for drying
Wheel brush
Special supplies (bug and tar remover, wax, tire shine, chrome polish)

STEPS TO A GREAT WASH

Step 1: Spray down the whole car. If there are bugs or dried bird droppings and you do not want to use a bug and tar remover, set a wet soapy rag on the spot to loosen it up while you work on the rest of the car.
Step 2: Clean the wheel wells and tires. Spray well; use your wheel brush and soapy water to scrub. Be sure to rinse the brush frequently to remove grit and small stones.
Step 3: Starting on the top begin washing your car. Work in small sections using the sponge or mitt. Rinse continually, do not let soap dry on your car.
Step 4: Towel dry your car working in long sweeping motions that follow the contours of the car body. High-grade silicone squeegees are available at some auto supply stores that effectively remove water and take less time than towel drying. Drying is important to prevent water spotting and streaking. Water with high mineral content will leave small deposits on your car finish.
Step 5: Treat special areas as needed. Tires: Like shiny tires? Use a tire lubricant. These are for the sides of the tires only. Do not get them on the tire treads, your paint or the brake rotors. There are also products to whiten up the whitewalls. Hard dried bugs/tar: There are specialty products to remove them. Follow the instructions.

WAXING

Protects your paint job by preventing oxidation. Oxidation causes paint to go flat and lose its shine. (Newer cars have a clear coat finish, which means the final coat of paint originally applied to your car was clear. Wax goes on top of this. Waxing on top of clear coat will not make your car any shinier but it will help protect the finish. Select a wax safe for clear coat.)
Helps prevent small rust spots from developing. Remember water+dirt=rust. If not tended to small rust spots will always grow into bigger rust spots.

Tips for a good wax job:

Wax your car right after it has been washed. Work in a shady spot. The temperature should be above 55 degrees.
Work on a small section at a time starting on the top of the car. Apply the wax with an old, soft, clean rag. Work in small circles.
Let the wax dry to a haze (usually takes less than a minute.) Use a separate cloth to polish off the dried wax.

Useful Guidelines for Keeping Your Car Clean

Thu, 11 Sep 2014 03:34:00 GMT

Beyond the personal satisfaction of driving a clean, well-kept car the main reason to keep it maintained has to do with your wallet. Look at any car valuing service website (Edmunds, NADA, Kelly Blue Book) and you will see the difference in value between cars rated in good, fair or poor condition ranges $1000 or more. Keep your car in great shape by removing all trash every time you come home; take care of spills immediately after they happen and take an hour each month to thoroughly clean the interior and exterior of your car.

CLEANING YOUR CAR

Exterior. We recommend washing the exterior of your car once a month and waxing your car once a year. In the winter months the City of Boulder uses magnesium chloride on the roads. Be sure to give your car a good rinse (including the underbody) between washes. When we have frequent snowstorms if you go to an automatic car wash, we suggest spending a few extra dollars and having them clean the underbody. For your monthly wash you can go to a car wash (see more detailed information below) or follow our 5 Steps to a Perfect Wash & Wax.

Interior. We recommend a thorough interior cleaning every quarter. Again, you can have a full-service car cleaning company perform this service for you or follow our 7 Steps to a Beautiful Car Interior.

CAR CLEANING OPTIONS

Car Detailing Services. A great time-saving option is to use a full service car wash. We prefer touchless drive through car washes that use high-powered spray to clean the car. Full service car washes usually offer a variety of other services. You can have your car washed and hand-dried, vacuumed, waxed or thoroughly detailed. In Boulder County we recommend Black Diamond or The Puddle. There are also professional detailing shops that clean your car inside and out by hand. A service to consider if you have a special car or are preparing your car for sale.

Car Washes. There are two types, the automatic drive-through and self-service bays with spray wands. The main complaint about drive-through car washes is that the rotating brushes leave small swirls and scratches in your paint. (Most of these are being replaced by the newer touchless technology). Likewise at the hand-held stations, use caution with the foaming brushes that sit on the ground and can have small rocks and dirt lodged in them that scratch your car.

Parking, Performance, Radar and Speedtrap Detection

Thu, 11 Sep 2014 03:34:00 GMT

PARKING

Best Parking

iPhone, Android, Blackberry and your home computer
Free
This is a handy website/phone app to have if you are heading to a busy metropolitan area and want to figure out where to park. Enter your intended destination and you’ll receive a map and/or list of parking options and prices. The site currently covers most major US cities and airports and is continually expanding.

Honk! (No more parking tickets)

iPhone
$.99
Honk is a combination app that includes a parking meter alarm and a find your car feature. If you are prone to parking tickets the $.99 cost of the app is definitely worth it.

PERFORMANCE ENTHUSIASTS

Dynolicious

iPhone
$12.99
If you’re into knowing how fast your car can accelerate from 0 to 60 or how much horsepower you reached Dynolicious is for you. This is definitely an app for the car hobbyist and takes time to set up.

RADAR DETECTION/PHOTO-RADAR/SPEEDTRAPS

Waze

iPhone, Android
Free
Get notifications for speed cameras along your route. The app also allows users to send reports about a series of items that drivers could come across along their routes, including potholes, traffic jams, accidents, and police speed traps.

Motor Oil 101

Wed, 10 Sep 2014 21:55:00 GMT

One of the most important things you can do to help your car last a good, long time is regularly change the oil.

MOTOR OIL DOES THREE THINGS:

Lubricates the moving parts of your engine.
Cools the engine by conducting heat away from the moving parts.
Prevents engine corrosion by holding the products of combustion (metals like silica, water and dirt) in suspension.

THERE ARE TWO MAIN TYPES OF MOTOR OIL FOR CAR ENGINES ON THE MARKET TODAY.

Mineral oils, refined from crude oil to make a base lube stock. Motor oil manufacturers take this base and add detergent, dispersants and anti-foaming agents to make the oil you buy in the store. (This is the oil you are probably most familiar with.)
Synthetic oils, manufactured in a laboratory. This controlled process produces small oil-like molecules that are uniform in size and shape and give synthetics a more flowing “slippery” quality.

Motor oils, both synthetic and mineral, are available in several viscosity grades. If you have ever stood at the auto parts store scratching your head at the numbers on the containers they have to do with how well the oil will flow at varying temperatures. If you live in very cold or very hot temperatures it is particularly important to have the right viscosity oil in your engine. Using the wrong viscosity oil can lead to shorter engine life and in cold climates can make your car harder to start.

WHICH TYPE OF OIL SHOULD YOU USE?

The short answer is use the motor oil recommended by your auto manufacturer and change the oil and filter at least every 5000 miles. If you drive in extreme weather conditions (very cold or very hot,) do a lot of stop and go driving or drive high performance vehicles you may want to consider switching to synthetic oil. A semi-synthetic (combination of petroleum and synthetic oils) is also available. There are varying opinions among car experts about the pros and cons of synthetic oils. Here is a summary:

Synthetic Oil Pros

Resists extreme temperatures.
Last longer (more miles between oil changes.)
Environmentally friendly (due to the fact you change the oil less frequently and the fact that a non-renewable resource wasn’t used in the production of the oil.)

Synthetic Oil Cons

Significantly more expensive than regular motor oil (approximately three times more.)
Debate about oil changing frequency. Many auto experts feel it is still important to change synthetic oil on the same schedule as regular oil due to the dirt and other contaminants that get in the oil.
Recycled synthetic oils are processed the same way as recycled mineral oils and are equally as damaging to the environment when they are not disposed of properly. (Most recycled oil whether it is synthetic or petroleum is filtered, cleaned and reused as a lubricant.)

Our best advice? Have your oil changed regularly and if you think you’d like to try something different talk to a qualified auto service technician who will help you make the right decision for your car.

Pellman's Automotive Service

Strange Noises Your Car Makes and What They Actually Mean

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Humming or Whining While Driving

Grinding Noise While Driving

Clicking When Turning

Rattling Under the Car

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Schedule Your Inspection Today

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Give It the Gift of Fresh Oil

Inspect for Hidden Issues

Show Your Battery Some Love

Warm Up with a Heater and Defroster Check

Treat Your Tires

Don’t Forget the Brakes

Bonus: Clean the Interior

Let Pellman’s Automotive Help You Love Your Ride

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1. Grinding or Squealing Sounds

2. ABS Warning Light

3. Vibrating Brake Pedal or Steering Wheel

4. Soft or Spongy Brake Pedal

5. Burning Smell While Braking

6. Car Pulls to One Side When Braking

7. Increased Stopping Distance

8. Hard Brake Pedal

9. Leaking Brake Fluid

10. Brake Fade

Stay Ahead of Brake Problems

2025 Holiday Gift Guide: The Best Christmas Gifts for Car Lovers

2025 Gift Buying Guide for Car Lovers

Stocking Stuffers Under $25

Mid‑Range Gifts ($25–$150)

Big Gifts for Serious Car Lovers

Bonus: Local Gift Ideas in Boulder

Wrap Up the Season with Confidence ﻿

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Stuck with a Dead Battery? Here's What to Do

What to Know Before You Jump-Start:

What You’ll Need:

Step-by-Step: How to Jump a Car with Jumper Cables

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Need a Battery Check or Replacement?

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Build a Winter Emergency Kit That’s Ready for Anything

Two Winter Giveaways You Won’t Want to Miss!

Winter Driving Starts with Smart Prep

Why Drivers Love It

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How to Enter Either Giveaway

Drive Safer. Stay Ready. Be Emergency-Prepared.

Braking for a Cure: Free Brake Pads This Fall with Brakes for Breasts

A Season of Care—For Your Car & Your Community

What Is Brakes for Breasts?

How You Can Get Involved

Why Fall Is the Right Time for Brake Service

More Than a Tune-Up—It’s a Chance to Make a Difference

A/C Problems in the Summer Heat? Boulder’s Auto Pros Explain Why

Why is my car's A/C not blowing cold air?

Why is my car's A/C blowing warm air at idle?

Why does my A/C get cold, then warm again?

Can I recharge my car's A/C myself?

How much does it cost to fix a car A/C?

Why does my car's A/C make a hissing or clicking sound?

What can I do to prevent A/C problems?

Stay Cool with Boulder’s Trusted Auto Air Condition Shop

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1. Overheating Engines

2. Air Conditioning Failures

3. Brake System Repairs

4. Battery Failures

5. Suspension & Alignment Problems

Stay Ahead of Summer Repairs—With Local Experts You Can Trust

Wrap Up the Season with Confidence