Auto Repair Services in Centennial, CO.

Warm weather or cold, you still need to think about our vehicle's air conditioning. Most people don't service their air conditioning until after it fails. Vehicle manufacturers have preventive maintenance schedules for air conditioning service, just as they do for transmission service, oil changes and so on.

How often this should be done varies from vehicle to vehicle. Your owner's manual will have the manufacturer's recommendation and, of course, our service advisor can tell you. It's typically every two years.

A/C If you're not getting enough cool air you know something's wrong. Also, if you hear strange sounds when you turn the air on, there might be a problem with the compressor, and you should get it checked out. Replacing a bad A/C clutch is cheaper than waiting for it to ruin the compressor.

Batteries are very sensitive to changes in the weather, and temperature can significantly affect your battery's performance. A battery inspection is an important part of your spring and fall checkups, much like air conditioning service or brake service. Our advisors will take a look at your battery to ensure it's in good condition. 

Is it clean and free of residue? A dirty battery will drain. Is there corrosion at the terminals where the battery cables attach? If there is, the corrosion can interfere with how efficiently electricity passes back and forth from the battery. Are the cables loose? Make sure they are tight. Are the cables themselves corroded? Corrosion can actually eat through the battery cables, impacting its performance. 

Our service advisor can help you choose an appropriate battery for your vehicle and your lifestyle, especially if you need battery replacement. If you require extra power due to cold weather or need more reserve capacity, you may want to opt for a heavy-duty battery. Just ensure it fits into your car, as an oversized battery may provide the power you need but poses a serious safety hazard if the terminals come into contact with other vehicle parts. Remember, regular maintenance like coolant and anti-freeze service and check engine light service can also help keep your vehicle running smoothly.

Have us inspect your belts and hoses to make sure there are no leaks! Timing belts keep everything working together - they are tough and flexible, and they last a long time but they do wear out. If they break, the consequences can spell disaster.

The serpentine belt powers a lot of engine systems. When the belt breaks, then the alternator, the water pump (on some vehicles), the air conditioning, the power steering pump - all these systems shut down.

Avoid surprises - ask our service advisor to check on the condition of your belts and hoses!

When it comes to preventive maintenance and car care, checking our brakes is essential. However, brakes encompass more than just brake pads and shoes. The entire brake system consists of numerous components that must all function properly to ensure safety on the road. 

The pads, shoes, and drums are referred to as the friction materials within the brake system. They press together to create the friction needed to stop the vehicle, which is why regular inspections for wear are crucial, and brake pads must be replaced periodically to maintain optimal performance. 

It's important to note that while brake pads gradually wear out, this does not necessarily mean your braking effectiveness declines at the same rate. Brake pads are designed to provide reliable stopping power until they become too thin to generate sufficient friction, at which point they require replacement. 

Additionally, your braking system includes mechanical parts like pistons and springs that can also wear out over time or become clogged with oil, dirt, and other debris from the road. A comprehensive brake service should encompass an inspection of these components as well as the pads and shoes. Our technician can also assist you with other services, such as air conditioning service, battery replacement, coolant and anti-freeze service, and check engine light service, advising you on any parts that may need cleaning or replacement.

Cabin air filters are becoming a standard feature on newer vehicles. These filters can clean particles out of the air down to three microns, which accounts for pollen, dust and most pollutants. If you suffer from allergies or have a respiratory disorder, this may be just what you've been waiting for. You may be able to drive with more comfort and less worry. And even if you don't have a medical need for the filter, the cleaner air in your car just might help you breathe better, figuratively as well as literally. Our service advisors can inspect and offer suggestions on replacement.

The Check Engine, or Service Engine light is a warning light. It is warning you that something is wrong. That something could be as simple as a loose gas cap or as important as a condition that may cause expensive damage. When the light comes on, it may burn steadily, or it might flash. A flashing light means that there is something wrong that could lead to severe damage. When that happens, you want to have the car checked by your service center as soon as you can. While it is flashing, it is not recommended that you not tow a taller, haul heavy loads or drive at highway speeds. That kind of driving could lead to damage before you can get in to get your vehicle fixed. A steady check engine light is not as urgent. You still want to get your car in for a diagnostic inspection, but you can work it into your schedule.

Knowing the code is only a starting point to diagnosing the problem. You need a trained technician equipped with the latest high-tech diagnostic equipment to get you back on the road safely and avoid expensive repairs later on. Bring your vehicle to us to have it properly diagnosed!

Our cars must operate in a wide range of outside temperatures and our engine coolant must be able to perform no matter what. Think for a moment about the environment where the coolant works. Very hot, high pressure, corrosive...

And all the while, it must protect the components of the cooling system from corrosion. These components are made from steel and aluminum, plastics and rubber. The coolant has to be formulated to protect against corrosion for all of these different materials. That's why different manufacturers recommend different types of anti-freeze for their vehicles.

There are several different "families" of anti-freeze. It's important to stay on top of this because coolant system failure is the most common mechanical problem people have. Regular service needs to be done to avoid failures. Our technicians will know what to do and how to do it!

If your engine has overheated, it’s essential to check your coolant system for leaks. Inspect the radiator for cracks and the radiator hoses for leaks. Additionally, examine your water pump. While they don't need to be replaced on a regular schedule, they should be checked regularly, as they can wear out over time.

The water pump plays a crucial role in your cooling system by pumping the coolant to keep it circulating through the engine. The coolant is cooled in the radiator, travels through the engine to absorb heat, and then returns to the radiator to release that heat. When you turn on your engine, the cooling system activates as well. For any concerns, call or visit us today so one of our service professionals can help diagnose the problem, whether it’s related to coolant and anti-freeze service or other maintenance needs like air conditioning service or brake service.

Maintaining your cooling system in good condition will ensure your engine runs smoothly and keep you out of the repair shop. This means scheduling regular inspections of your cooling system should be part of your routine preventive maintenance, along with check engine light service and battery replacement checks. The frequency of these checks may vary based on the type of car you drive, your driving habits, and your location.

Modern vehicles are equipped with computers in the engine that monitor various sensors throughout the vehicle. When one of those sensors reports a reading that is higher or lower than standard parameters, the computer activates the check engine light. Technicians at a service center can then perform a check engine light service by scanning the engine's computer for a trouble code. This code indicates which reading is out of parameter, but many people get confused at this point. They assume that this reading concludes the diagnosis and question why the diagnostic fee is high when all the technician did was scan the computer. However, the truth is that the trouble code is just the beginning of the diagnostic procedure. 

It's important to remember that the trouble code only identifies which reading is problematic; it does not reveal the underlying cause of the issue. The technician must still investigate further to find the root problem, much like how a doctor can take your temperature and find a fever, but still needs to determine what is causing it. 

To minimize auto repairs, keeping your preventive maintenance up to date is essential, which includes regular air conditioning service, coolant and anti-freeze service, and brake service. These practices help catch potential problems before they escalate. But when you do need a diagnosis, understanding what the technician faces can help. 

Automotive diagnostic technology can significantly reduce the time it takes to identify what’s wrong with a vehicle that isn’t running properly. Yet, it doesn’t eliminate the need for a skilled technician to make a thorough diagnosis. Just like in medical care, effective car care still requires that human touch, whether it's for battery replacement or any other service.

When a good technician changes your oil, they will also inspect your air filter. You shouldn't need a new filter at every oil change, but you will need to change it regularly. Heed your technician's auto advice if they tell you to change your filter. It's not expensive, and it makes a big difference to your vehicle.

An air filter does what its name implies: it filters stuff out of the air. Air is drawn into your engine through the filter because your engine needs air to burn fuel. If the filter weren't there, a lot of dust and debris would come into the engine compartment with the air. That dust and debris would get hot, burn, and produce all kinds of ash and gumminess that would eventually clog up your engine.

It's also one of the least expensive and simplest elements of routine preventive maintenance. No one should have an excuse to drive around with a dirty air filter.

Stop in today for a quick air filter change and keep your car breathing well

Differential? What's that? And what's it for? I've been told I need to get it serviced, but is that on the level? Or am I getting charged for something bogus? 

Do these questions sound familiar? They're not uncommon. A lot of us don't know what a differential is or what it's for. Every vehicle has a differential, and, yes, it does need to be serviced. In fact, it's more critical to the operation of your car than your air conditioning service or even the brake service. 

A differential allows your tires to move at different speeds. This happens more than you think. The best example is when a vehicle is turning. The inside wheel travels a much shorter distance than the outside wheel during a turn. This means the outside wheel must move faster than the inside wheel. Without a differential, your tires would hop and skip while turning. They would also lose traction in sand or snow. 

Properly servicing your differential will extend its life and keep you out of the repair shop. Just like a check engine light service or battery replacement, neglecting this part of your vehicle can lead to bigger issues. A smooth ride is the result of proper preparation and smart choices, including regular coolant and anti-freeze service to ensure optimal performance.

Preventive maintenance for diesel vehicles has also become similar to that of gas-fueled vehicles in recent years. The major difference is that diesels require cleaner fuel, air and oil, so their filters are more expensive than those for gasoline engines. The engine air filter must be changed more frequently as well.

The costs for car care and repairs are similar. Wait, you may be thinking, but you just told me that filters cost more and must be changed more regularly. True, but that is offset by the fact that diesel engines have a much longer lifetime than gasoline engines. So, if you are the type of owner who prefers to hang on to a vehicle for a long time, you will be more than rewarded with a diesel engine.

Your vehicle's exhaust system is more than just a tailpipe and a muffler. In fact, it is one of the most complex systems on your vehicle. Maintaining it is

good auto advice, but it's also good health advice and good environmental advice.

The exhaust system includes your emissions system. Because this system may affect your health and the health of the environment, it is subject to strict government regulations. Satisfying these regulations demands some high-

tech, computer-controlled equipment, which means that the emissions system is a lot more sophisticated than it was thirty years ago.

Preventive maintenance is a must when it comes to your exhaust system, and it requires a trained technician since it includes everything from simple pipes to complex computers. Good maintenance may yield cosmetic benefits like quieting your engine sounds, but also may impact your health and safety.

Almost everyone has had a flat tire. Even if it's a slow leak, get it fixed quickly; don't just keep inflating them. Low tire pressure puts added stress on the structure of the tire itself, causing it to break down prematurely, much like how neglecting your air conditioning service can lead to bigger issues. You want to avoid serious tire damage, just as you would want to address a check engine light service promptly. Tires can also be damaged by road hazards. Punctures, cuts, and impacts on curbs or potholes can cause damage that could lead to tire failure, similar to how a battery replacement might be necessary if your vehicle isn't starting properly. It is also important that repairs should only be done by a qualified tire specialist. If you're running flat—give us a call so we can fix any tire issues you might have, along with brake service or coolant and anti-freeze service if needed!

Over time, vehicles have developed in complexity and variety, and their fluids have developed as well. It's important to always use the right type of fluid for your vehicle. Some of the fluids that have changed significantly in recent years are cooling system fluid, brake fluid, transmission fluid and motor oil. Each of these comes in many varieties now, and it's important to know exactly which one your vehicle needs. Improper fluids can damage your vehicle and void your warranty. Ask our service advisor about a fluid inspection on your next visit!

Fuel filters are essential for cleaning dirt, dust, and grime from your fuel, whether it's for gasoline or diesel-powered engines. Located in the fuel line between the fuel tank and the engine, the fuel filter helps maintain engine performance. You don’t need to filter your fuel simply because it contains grit; you need to do so to protect your engine from harmful contaminants. A cleaner fuel supply leads to a better running engine. Over time, small amounts of rust, dirt, and other contaminants can settle in your fuel tank, and after about five years, this can accumulate into significant sediment. As your car ages, your fuel filter has to work harder to screen your fuel, which means more grit can affect your engine’s performance. Just like regular air conditioning service, battery replacement, brake service, check engine light service, and coolant and anti-freeze service are crucial for vehicle maintenance, ensuring your fuel filter is clean is just as important. Call or stop in today to schedule a time for us to service your fuel filter.

The drive train includes all the components that transfer power from the transmission to the wheels. These components vary between all-wheel drive and four-wheel drive systems. Four-wheel drive vehicles are essentially rear-wheel drive vehicles equipped with the option to transfer power to the front wheels. These vehicles are specifically designed to tackle the harsh driving conditions encountered off-road. Regular maintenance is crucial, which includes servicing both differentials and the transfer box, as well as inspecting the joints and seals. Don’t forget, in addition to drive train service, we also offer essential services like air conditioning service, battery replacement, brake service, check engine light service, and coolant and anti-freeze service. Check with our service advisor about servicing your four wheel drive!

Engines need to burn fuel to operate. Fuel is pumped from your fuel tank to your engine where it is squirted-or injected-into your engine's cylinders. This is the function of the fuel injectors.

Fuel injectors are precision instruments. They have to deliver the right amount of fuel at exactly the time the engine needs it. They are also engineered to inject fuel with a specific spray pattern. This spray pattern allows for maximum fuel efficiency and proper atomization.

Direct injection engines require a much higher degree of precision than conventional engines. For this reason, they are equipped with more sophisticated computers.

If you drive off-road, carry heavy loads, tow a trailer, or put in a lot of mileage on poor driving surfaces, your shocks or struts will wear out more quickly. You'll need to replace them more often or upgrade to better shocks.

Installing a lift kit on your vehicle can make room for bigger tires. A mild lift doesn't require extensive work. An extreme lift means a lot of new hardware under the vehicle. It also means a lot of stock electronic systems need to be recalibrated to the new tire size. For example, your speedometer and odometer will give false readings if they aren't recalibrated.

Oil lubricates your engine and keeps it running smoothly. If you're running low, there is increased friction in your engine. This friction creates drag, meaning more fuel is needed to keep the motor running, which translates to lower gas mileage. Additionally, dirty oil can grit up your engine, creating further friction and drag that reduces gas mileage, even if there's enough oil. The types of surfaces you drive on, the climate where you live, and the air quality in your area can all influence how often you should change your oil, which is why regular oil changes are important. Just as regular maintenance like air conditioning service, battery replacement, brake service, and check engine light service are essential for optimal vehicle performance, so is coolant and anti-freeze service to prevent overheating and ensure your engine runs efficiently.

Power steering is now standard on all vehicles, but there are several ways that power can be delivered. Most vehicles use a hydraulic power steering system where a serpentine belt from the engine powers a pump that pressurizes the power steering fluid. This pressure activates a hydraulic cylinder that provides steering power. Other vehicles utilize an electric pump to pressurize the power steering fluid instead of the traditional belt-driven pump. Some newer models, particularly the popular hybrid and electric vehicles, feature electric motors that provide steering power without the need for steering fluid at all.

If you own a vehicle that relies on power steering fluid, it's essential to have it changed regularly, similar to how you would schedule air conditioning service or battery replacement. Over time, moisture accumulates in the power steering fluid, which can impact steering performance and lead to corrosion of steering components. Additionally, dirt and other contaminants can build up in the fluid, further diminishing steering effectiveness.

A comprehensive power steering service will flush out the old fluid and eliminate dirt and other deposits in the system. Clean fluid is then added, providing lubricants that help protect the steering system and prevent corrosion, much like the benefits of regular brake service or coolant and anti-freeze service. If your check engine light comes on, it’s also wise to have your power steering checked, as it can indicate issues that might affect your vehicle's overall performance.

A little routine maintenance can prevent a breakdown. The key to good vehicle maintenance starts with the oil change. When you come in for a full- service oil change, we will check all your fluids. If one of them is low, we can look for a reason why. If your serpentine belt is cracked or your battery cable is corroded, we'll see it and let you know. Corroded battery cable, they've got you covered. We will check to see if your manufacturer has recommended any services at your current mileage.

The fact is that vehicle inspection surveys consistently reveal that over 80% of vehicles have one or more unperformed repair or maintenance service. Vehicles are generally very reliable and can take a lot of abuse and neglect. But, it's to remember that cars are complicated machines. There are parts and fluids that are critical to their function. Without them, the car won't run at all.

We can help you work out a maintenance and repair plan, prioritizing and scheduling the work to make sure you and your family are safe, and avoid expensive breakdowns

The serpentine belt powers many essential engine systems, including the alternator that charges the battery, the water pump on some vehicles that helps cool the engine, the air conditioning system that provides comfort for the driver and passengers, and the power steering pump that facilitates easier steering. When the serpentine belt breaks, all these systems, including your air conditioning service, come to a halt.

Serpentine belts are quite affordable, especially when you consider the hefty costs associated with an overheated engine, towing services, lost time on the road, and the potential safety risks of being stranded. Regular maintenance, including battery replacement and brake service, can help prevent these costly issues.

Good car care means never postponing preventive maintenance. Do yourself a favor and ask our service advisor to have a technician check under your hood and inspect that serpentine belt. Don't forget to also inquire about check engine light service and coolant and anti-freeze service to ensure your vehicle runs smoothly. Never overlook the importance of the serpentine belt.

If your suspension is in trouble, you often feel it in how your vehicle drives. If the vehicle pulls to one side or wanders, if the steering is erratic, if your ride isn't as smooth as it should be, or if your vehicle handles poorly, you should get your suspension system checked. Uneven tire wear can also indicate worn parts in your suspension system. If your shocks are leaking oil, then they need to be replaced. All in all, if you don't feel in control when you're driving, go get your suspension inspected.

Shocks and struts wear out. Wheel bearings may need to be repacked every few years. Some parts of your suspension may need to be lubricated whenever you change your oil. Preventive maintenance is the key to keeping your vehicle under control. Good car care can prevent accidents.

If you are in an accident, even a minor one, it can damage your suspension system or knock your wheels out of alignment. Even hitting a curb, pothole or large rock can damage your suspension. A wheel balancing or alignment won't correct a suspension problem, and after any suspension work, you'll may need to get an alignment.

Never procrastinate repairs to your suspension system. A damaged suspension system can lead to loss of control or a vehicle in an emergency and serious accidents.

The timing belt is aptly named because it keeps the pistons and valves operating in sync with each other, much like a conductor ensures all the instruments in an orchestra play in harmony. Therefore, the timing belt is essential for the proper function of your engine.

Not all vehicles rely on timing belts; some are equipped with timing chains. Timing chains are generally more durable and less likely to break, while timing belts are a more cost-effective option for manufacturers.

Since timing belts do wear out and can break, replacing the timing belt on schedule is a crucial aspect of preventive maintenance for our vehicles. This is similar to how regular check engine light service helps in diagnosing issues before they become serious.

However, replacing a timing belt can be a significant expense in preventive maintenance. The belt is often difficult to access, requiring the removal of some engine accessories, much like the complexity involved in battery replacement or brake service. Despite the cost of replacement, it's much less than the potential repairs if the timing belt fails.

For more auto advice on timing belts, air conditioning service, or coolant and anti-freeze service, feel free to consult with our service advisor. Remember, when it comes to car care, ignorance is not bliss—it could end up costing you a lot more in the long run.

Trust the tire experts to install your next set of wheels. Whenever a tire is changed on newer vehicles, the service technician will have to deal with the Tire Pressure Monitoring System. Sensors will need to be removed, then reinstalled and reactivated. Sometimes, the act of changing a tire can damage a sensor, requiring a battery replacement to ensure proper functionality. This is why you will always want an expert taking care of this. When you need to replace your tires, just ask our professional auto advice on the best tires for you and your car, and don't forget to consider our air conditioning service and brake service to keep your vehicle in top shape. Additionally, if the check engine light service comes on, we can help diagnose any issues, ensuring your ride is safe and reliable.

We have the ability to code and program any vehicles TPMS, with the latest and state of the art technology. A new federal law requires manufacturers to include a Tire Pressure Monitoring System - or TPMS - in all vehicles by the 2008 model year. Some 2006 and 2007 models already feature this PMS system. The system includes a dashboard-mounted warning light that activates if one or more tires fall 25% below the manufacturer's recommended pressure levels. 

Every time a tire is changed—whether fixing a flat, installing a new tire, or mounting snow tires—service technicians will need to address the TPMS. This involves removing and reinstalling sensors, reactivating them after the change, and managing inevitable sensor damage that can occur during tire changes. 

Additionally, even a simple tire rotation will require the monitor to be reprogrammed for each tire's new location. If a car battery is disconnected, the TPMS will also need reprogramming. It's important to note that battery replacement for the TPMS sensors may be necessary, and any failed parts will need to be replaced. Regular vehicle maintenance, including air conditioning service, brake service, and coolant and anti-freeze service, ensures that all systems, including the TPMS, function correctly, which can also help prevent issues like the check engine light from activating.

Rotating tires is essential for ensuring all four tires on a vehicle wear evenly. Front tires typically experience more wear than rear tires because they handle most of the work during turns. By performing tire rotation, you allow all the tires to spend time at the front of the car, helping them to experience the additional wear. Just like scheduling regular air conditioning service, battery replacement, and brake service is important for your vehicle's maintenance, tire rotation is a vital step in preserving overall tire health. Additionally, if you notice your check engine light service illuminating, or if you're due for coolant and anti-freeze service, it’s crucial to address these issues promptly to keep your car running smoothly.

Your engine has many component systems that each need to be working properly, including essential services like air conditioning service and brake service. The components need to work in sync, all timed together, for the engine to function efficiently.

We call this a tune-up. Just as an orchestra that's out of tune results in a poor concert, a vehicle that's not properly tuned can lead to bad performance and reduced fuel economy. Don't forget, regular check engine light service and coolant and anti-freeze service are also vital for your vehicle's health.

Ask our service advisor about having us tune up your car, including battery replacement and other essential services!

When your transmission is running properly, it transfers more power from your engine to the drive wheels and improves fuel economy. That's why it's recommended to change your transmission fluid at regular intervals, alongside other essential services like air conditioning service and brake service. Your owner's manual has a schedule for transmission service, and of course, our service center can inform you about the manufacturer's recommendations, including battery replacement and check engine light service, as well as coolant and anti-freeze service.

Replacing a water pump is a car care issue that almost all of us face eventually, as water pumps don't last forever. However, we can extend the life of most components of our vehicle, including the water pump, through preventive maintenance. Just as exercise and diet keep our hearts healthy, regular check-ups, fluid changes, and services such as air conditioning service, battery replacement, brake service, and check engine light service will help keep our vehicles running smoothly. Additionally, ensuring proper coolant and anti-freeze service is crucial for maintaining optimal engine temperature.

If you're struggling to keep the inside of your truck or car clean, consider WeatherTech Auto Floor Mats. At HotShots Automotive auto repair in Centennial, CO, our skilled auto mechanics excel in custom fitting WeatherTech's durable rubber mats in any vehicle, ensuring they withstand daily wear and tear, much like our reliable air conditioning service and battery replacement options. 

We proudly support WeatherTech's 10-year warranty against poor quality or manufacturer defects, along with a one-year price guarantee. If you discover a better price elsewhere, WeatherTech will refund the difference. 

WeatherTech Auto Floor Mats are ideal for everyone, from contractors frequently in and out of their trucks to soccer moms dealing with muddy cleats. At HotShots Automotive, we provide top-notch auto repair and service, which is why we recommend only the best products for your vehicles, including WeatherTech Auto Floor Mats. After all, we have a reputation to uphold. 

If you have questions regarding WeatherTech Auto Floor Mats, or if you need services like brake service, check engine light service, or coolant and anti-freeze service, call HotShots Automotive or visit us at 15035 E Hinsdale Dr, Centennial, CO, United States. Our ASE-Certified Master auto mechanics/technicians look forward to assisting you with your WeatherTech Auto Floor Mats and all your auto repair needs.

One of the most important parts of preventive maintenance for your vehicle is keeping the wheels in alignment. Poor alignment causes your tires to wear unevenly, which can significantly reduce their lifespan. This means you will have to replace them more often, which is costly. It can even damage your suspension system, which is very costly to repair. But even more importantly, uneven tread wear can lead to blowouts on the road, a dangerous and potentially deadly safety risk.

It may not take an accident or bad driving habits to "knock" your tires out of alignment. Tires can go out of alignment with just everyday driving. Road hazards, potholes, uneven or gravel roads, even the bumps and bounces of normal roadways can gradually put your tires out of alignment.

So, it's good auto advice to have your alignment inspected periodically. Your vehicle's owner's manual will have recommendations on how often your alignment should be checked: usually every 2 years or so. But if you think your tires might be out of alignment, you should take your car in now.