Van Nuys Auto Repair & Service Center

    Thanks to the Air Bag System in our 2007 Nissan Versa, my wife suffered minor injuries when the car Hydroplaned on the 101 near Santa Barbara during a rain storm last year. Even when driving through sitting water on the freeway with good tires and at a safe speed, hydroplaning can occur simply due to the separation and lift created by water between the tire surface and the road. Unfortunately, the car was a total loss and fortunately my wife wasn't. We loved that little car, but I love my wife more.   Take advantage of the Wet Weather offer at AutoAid which includes a free inspection of tires, brakes, wipers, lights and more to keep you safe on the road during this long overdue rainy season in Southern California

  Did you know there was an estimated 9.5 percent increase in traffic fatalities in the first quarter of 2015? Or that there has been little progress in improving the fuel economy of vehicles since the early 1990s? Factoids such as these come through my e-mail pretty much daily and, while each one does not merit a full article, combined they do offer something interesting for everyone. Here are some recent news items drivers will find of interest. -- Despite advances in fuel-saving technologies in the last 25 years, the on-road fuel economy for all vehicles (cars, trucks, buses, and motorcycles) has improved by less than 1 mile per gallon during that time, according to a study by the University of Michigan Transportation Research Institute. Part of the reason is that it takes many years to turn over the fleet. The average age of a light-duty vehicle on the road is currently 11.4 years. So, man ... read more

With the prospect of a heavy rainy season ahead, hydroplaning  in your vehicle becomes more likely and dangerous. Even with a thin layer of water on the road, your vehicle speed and tire tread depth will have  a significant impact on control or lack thereof.                      THIS IS A DIRECT RESULT OF A HYDROPLANE ACCIDENT With good tire tread depth, and a cautious speed, the tire tread pattern will push the water out and away from the wheel allowing  for maximum contact with the road. However, regardless of how  good or new the tires are, the faster the speed the less direct contact with the road. A layer of water builds up between the  rubber and the road resulting in Hydroplaning and loss of control. Prescription: Don't drive if you don't have to                    Have your Tires Checked for Tread Depth & ... read more

flood driving tips Sometimes it's unavoidable, as when a summer sprinkle quickly devolves into a flash flood. If you're caught driving in a flood, we have some tips to help you stay safe. Estimate how deep the water is As little as 6 inches of water can damage your car and lead to stalling. A foot of water may even cause your vehicle to float. If you think the water is more than 6 inches deep, don't try to drive through it. Best to turn around and find another route. Slow your speed If you drive through water, slow down and take your time. Watch for downed power lines If you approach a water-ridden area where power lines are down, turn around. Respect the barricades If you're approaching a road that's barricaded, don't attempt to go around the barricade and take the road anyway. There's a good chance serious danger's ahead. Don't wait out the water in your car Because only a foot of water can make your car float and 2 feet can cause it to ... read more

Great News! The great customer service efforts of my sons and staff at AutoAid in serving the Automotive Repair and Body and Paint needs of our customers has earned us the coveted "People Love Us On Yelp" recognition. Thank you to all who made it possible.