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Category: Automotive

  • StradVision Delivering Cutting-Edge Vision Technology for Autonomous Vehicles in 2021

    StradVision Delivering Cutting-Edge Vision Technology for Autonomous Vehicles in 2021

    The Future of Autonomous Driving Remains Promising

    In 2020, the global COVID-19 pandemic impacted many industries based on traditional business structures and infrastructure, including the automotive industry. According to a market study published in November by ‘Strategy Analytics,’ the global automobile production volume in 2020 was estimated at 74.1 million units, a significant decrease of 16.7% compared to 89 million units in 2019.

    However, despite the overall downturn of the automotive market, the potential of ADAS and autonomous driving vehicle markets remains high. In particular, the production of vehicles equipped with Level 2 and Level 3 autonomous driving technology is expected to increase sharply to about 30 million units by 2025.

    New Innovative Features for SVNet

    StradVision’s 2020 was a year of significant achievements that further increased the maturity of technology, product and business capability. Since last year, StradVision focused on improving the performance of SVNet, its object recognition software, with implementation of more innovative features leveraging higher resolution videos and more cameras.

    At the NVIDIA GTC 2020 and AutoSens 2020 events held in October and November 2020, we unveiled our solution for Surround View Monitoring (SVM), which has begun to attract a lot of attention in the automotive industry. This technology combines wide-angle images collected by multiple cameras, mounted along the side of the vehicle, to recognize objects and situations in all directions, 360 degrees.

    StradVision also introduced a unique technology called Animal Detection in 2020. This new feature of SVNet was developed to prepare for the road environment in some countries where wild animals and livestock frequently appear, and reflects StradVision’s corporate value for the safety of not only humans, but also all living things.

    StradVision’s Expansion of Global Business Network

    In terms of business, Stradvision invested in closer support of our customers in different countries. One significant move was the opening of a new office in Munich, Germany, where many of our automotive Tier 1 and OEM customers are located. We also appointed Dr. Andreas Vom Felde — who has extensive industry experience in the field of automotive technologies — as general manager for our operations in the European Union. StradVision’s global reach includes local branches in Germany, Japan, China, and the United States.

    We also extended collaborative relationships with partners in the autonomous driving fields. In August 2020, StradVision signed a collaboration agreement with Socionext Inc., a major system-on-chip (SoC) solution company, to increase the supply of SVNet to the Japanese market. And we signed another agreement with BlackBerry to utilize its QNX software development platform for SVNet to create more business opportunity in the Korean automotive market.

    In addition, StradVision was selected for the Proactive Partner Program of the R-Car Consortium of Renesas, and as the Premier Partner of the NVIDIA Inception program, in recognition of its competitiveness in ADAS and autonomous driving technology.

    Through active new technology development and rapid business expansion in multiple countries, Stradvision has signed cumulative software supply contracts of 8.8 million units, and brought in a total of $41 million, including series B funding.

    Implementing Improved Performance and Cutting-edge Features to SVNet

    Stradvision aims to achieve two goals, in terms of business and technology, in 2021.

    Stradvision’s top priority is advancement of the Front-facing Camera (FFC) recognition performance, adding innovative improvements to our existing object recognition technology. By enabling the same level of object recognition capability as dual front cameras while using only a single camera, StradVision will maximize the unique advantages of SVNet, which delivers high-efficiency for both hardware utilization and costs.

    Along with the Front-facing Camera (FFC) solutions, StradVision is also activating new business areas based on emerging technologies including Surround View Monitoring (SVM) and AR-HUD (Augmented Reality Head-Up Display). As Surround View Monitoring (SVM) continues to earn a significant amount of attention in the automotive industry, SVNet provides cutting-edge features such as Advanced Parking Assistance (APA), to assist in parking with or without driver’s intervention, and Automatic Valet Parking (AVP), which provides complete valet parking service and a vehicle driving itself to the parking space and coming back when summoned.

    StradVision plans to collaborate with various OEMs in Europe, US, Japan, China and Korea, automotive parts suppliers and system-on-chip manufacturers to bring Surround View Monitoring (SVM) and AR-HUD technologies into day-to-day driving lives for everyone, leading the latest industry trends.

    About StradVision

    Founded in 2014, StradVision is an automotive industry pioneer in AI-based vision processing technology for Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS). The company is accelerating the advent of fully autonomous vehicles by making ADAS features available at a fraction of the market cost compared with competitors. StradVision’s software is being deployed in 8.8 million vehicles worldwide and is serviced by their over 140 employees in Seoul, San Jose, Tokyo, and Munich. The company received the 2020 Autonomous Vehicle Technology ACES Award in Autonomy (Software Category). StradVision’s software is certified to the ISO 9001:2015 international standard.

  • Automated Commercial Vehicles Are On The Fast Track As Result Of Billions In Investments

    Automated Commercial Vehicles Are On The Fast Track As Result Of Billions In Investments

    We recently caught up with Mike Szudarek of Marx Layne Public Relations to discuss the future of automated commercial vehicles. Here’s what he had to say.

    There has been a lot of talk in recent years about when we’ll all be passengers in our self-driving cars and give up control of the wheel on a daily basis. But while progress is being made in that area, it’s still many years away.

    What’s likely to become a reality more quickly is the automation of the commercial vehicle industry (trucks, robo-taxis, buses, etc.), which is seeing billions of dollars invested, according to the Autonomous Commercial Vehicle Industry Report, 2019-2020.

    For example, in 2019, TuSimple — which claims to be the largest and most advanced self-driving truck company — raised more than $200 million.

    Automonomous industry leader Waymo has tested self-driving trucks in California, Georgia, Arizona, New Mexico and Texas, and sees a wide variety of applications for the technology in commercial vehicles.

    Pony.ai, a robotaxi company that has seen investment of $400 million from Toyota and other investors, also remains active in this space. And there’s many more actively exploring this space with big investment dollars.

    The adaptation of faster and more efficient 5G technology will be one key element for the commercial automation process to move forward, and much of the conversation revolves around “truck platooning”, which involves the linking of two or more trucks in a convoy, using connectivity technology and automated driving systems.

    The path to commercial vehicle autonomy is not without obstacles. For example, a platooning test in China in December 2019 found that autonomous driving in tunnels became difficult because the GNSS signal was bad. In addition, winter weather concerns and low temperatures caused problems for the equipment being used.

    Once these issues are addressed, it’s clear that the future of commercial vehicles is an autonomous future. Whether it be robo-taxis and self-driving buses transporting people to their destinations, or autonomous semi-trucks delivering goods, the combination of GPS, Wi-Fi, 5G and Bluetooth technology have made self-driving commercial vehicles a realistic reality in the near future, opening up the controversial debate over staffing needs at trucking and other commercial vehicle companies in this new era.

    While initial deployment of self-driving commercial vehicles may include a human in the vehicle to serve as an emergency backup, in the longer term this human backup will not be needed. In fact, GM is already running its “robot cars” without human backups in San Francisco`. So the future is now. Automated Commercial Vehicles Are on The Fast Track As Result Of Billions In Investments

    Fleet owners who make the leap to autonomy will anticipate fewer fatalities on the roadways with their vehicles, with human error taken out of the equation.

    So next time you’re driving down the highway, if you see a car, taxi, or even a semi, without anyone behind the wheel, don’t be alarmed. It’s the new reality and may soon be commonplace, changing the entire ecosystem of how people travel and how cargo is distributed around the country, shaking up the transportation industry yet again.

  • Are new cars becoming too expensive?

    Are new cars becoming too expensive?

    We recently caught up with Mike Szudarek from Marx Layne to discuss reasons why new cars are becoming so expensive. This is what he said…

    Yes. New cars have unquestionably become more expensive over the years, partly due to consumer demand for more features, but that is not the only reason. Advancements in vehicle safety and technology, engineering and design and government regulations are duly responsible for driving up window stickers.

    Smarter cars cost more

    Modern vehicles have come a long way since their predecessors as sophisticated technologies and superior quality, once reserved for upscale brands, have now found their way into base-level models. It is a smart move by carmakers; as they compete for your business, they need to make vehicles more appealing. Brand loyalty is no longer a given.

    Today’s connected consumers crave comfort and convenience and expect their rides to be equipped with the latest technology to complement their mobile lifestyles without compromising safety or quality. While rear-view cameras, touchscreen displays and fast-charging USB ports are standard options on most current base-level trim packages, higher trim levels typically offer added luxury. They contain more safety features like blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist and adaptive cruise control. All of these “extras” add a premium to a vehicle’s bottom line.

    For instance, look at the Ford F150 pickup truck, a best-selling vehicle for decades, especially among contractors. Shoppers looking to purchase a 2021 model have six different trim packages to choose from, starting at $35,280 for its entry-level F-150 XL Regular Cab 4×4 and $75,945 for the top-tier F-150 Limited SuperCrew 4×4 before options; a fully loaded hybrid Limited will cost over $80,000.

    Furthermore, almost everything in a newer vehicle is controlled by a complex network of computers and sensors – all communicating with each other to operate the features drivers have come to rely on, including the safety assist systems designed to minimize accidents. Car repairs are also becoming more expensive because of these technologies.

    Then you have electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrids, which are more expensive than traditional gas-powered engines. EVs cost more because of their batteries, while hybrids are pricier due to having dual powertrains.

    Size matters

    Another factor is people love larger vehicles. Light trucks (pickups, SUVs and crossovers) have dominated the market for years driving smaller sedans to the brink of extinction. An analysis from the National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA) issued in December 2019 found light trucks accounted for 72.1 percent of all new light-vehicle sales – increasing 2.9 percentage points compared to 2018.

    Subsequently, as vehicles get larger, not only do they require more materials to manufacture them, they also require additional safety features due to their increased size and weight, equaling more dollar signs.

    According to Kelley Blue Book, the estimated average price for a light vehicle in the United States was $38,635 in August 2020, even as the coronavirus pandemic persists. With median household incomes earning $68,400, owning a new automobile seems unattainable for many families. This may explain why more people are financing their vehicle purchase for extended periods, stretching to six or seven years on some leases, and ultimately adding thousands of dollars to the payment.

    Regulatory compliance

    Automakers are constantly under pressure to comply with government policies and mandates regarding safety systems and environmental standards, including fuel economy and reduced emissions. For example, The U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA) Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) standards regulate fuel economy for vehicles produced in the United States. Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) must take into consideration these regulations when designing their engines, and that inevitably raises car prices.

    In the end, the question of whether new cars are becoming too expensive depends on sales. We already know that today’s vehicles are smarter, safer and loaded with technology making them better products. As long as consumer demand is there, automakers will continue to seek out ways to maximize their margins, and that, unfortunately, trickles down to your pocketbook.

    Original Source: https://marxlayne.com/are-new-cars-too-expensive/

  • 5 Trends Automakers Must Drive To Survive

    5 Trends Automakers Must Drive To Survive

    Business, as usual, is no longer an option for OEMs. Given the unprecedented uncertainty facing the auto industry, one thing is sure: automakers must recalibrate their business strategies if they plan to survive in a COVID-19 era.

    The reality is that the global automotive market was already feeling the impact of disruption Pre-COVID-19 with the convergence of connected, autonomous, electrification and shared mobility technologies shifting the industry. Not to mention an industry that is very cyclical and was already in the middle of a downturn cycle in terms of sales.

    Now, a new automotive revolution of momentous proportion is underway and fueling some key trends that are being accelerated by the pandemic.

    To help auto leaders prepare for the “new normal,” Marx Layne has identified five trends expected to impact the market outlook and propel the industry forward in the months ahead.

    #1. Supply chain diversification

    As automotive brands reposition themselves for recovery, they are rethinking their global supply chains. Traditionally, OEMs rely heavily on just-in-time production. With the onset of COVID-19, supply chains were immediately hit hard, especially in China where almost two-thirds of auto production was affected by the country’s shutdown. With a shortage of parts, car companies are looking to diversify their supply chains and offer opportunities to other countries like India and Mexico. Localization production efforts also continue since the passage of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). The organizations that will emerge the strongest post COVID-19 will need to build long-term resilience in their supply chains to better anticipate risks and protect against future disruptions.

    #2. Research and development (R & D) reduction

    Nearly all automakers and suppliers are expected to reduce R & D spending due to the trifecta effect of a pandemic, declining sales and production halts. According to the Q2 OESA Automotive Supplier Barometer™, R & D investments are estimated to be delayed by just over four months on average, with connected manufacturing and autonomous vehicle technologies being delayed the most, as emphasis shifts to focus on alternative propulsion technologies. That comes as no surprise as the industry looks to preserve cash and other “non-critical” expenses.

    #3. Car ownership is up; ridesharing is down

    As social distancing and health concerns prevail amid the outbreak, people’s attitudes toward the cleanliness of public transit and ridesharing have shifted as commuters opt more in the direction of car ownership. People do not want to get onto crowded subways or buses or risk contact with Lyft and Uber drivers. They just feel safer in their own personal space. Makes sense. A recent survey shows 93 percent of people say they are now using personal vehicles more in the wake of the coronavirus crisis while Cars.com reported that 20 percent of respondents who did not own a car Pre-COVID are now considering purchasing one.

    #4. Contactless dealership experience

    Automotive dealers have been among the hardest hit industries as their entire model is contact based. Spending hours at a dealership to purchase a new vehicle is no longer par for the course. According to a recent industry survey, approximately 87 percent of car shoppers disliked some aspect of car shopping and dealerships pre-pandemic. Now, dealerships will need to transform their operations to meet the emerging needs of their new “quarantined” customer. The expectation is that all transactions will need to be handled digitally with contactless vehicle delivery to your driveway available.

    #5. People are tuning into digital events

    COVID-19 has accelerated the need for virtual events as large-scale auto shows and conferences were postponed or cancelled. Many OEMs and suppliers are now turning to digital platforms like Zoom and Microsoft Teams to reveal their product launches.

    In early March, Hyundai unveiled its 2021 Elantra and Elantra Hybrid through a live broadcast that reached approximately 5,300 viewers watching from the safety of their own homes. Moving forward, the adoption of these remote tools will be imperative for auto marketers in maintaining their industry presence. Plus, just think of all the money they will save not traveling.

    Undoubtedly, the coronavirus scourge has changed the automotive ecosystem as we know it. How quickly the industry adapts to these trends will determine their future prosperity.

    Source: https://marxlayne.com/five-trends-automakers-must-drive-to-survive/

  • Tips to Avoid Costs through Auto Repair Servicing

    Tips to Avoid Costs through Auto Repair Servicing

    Cars have unknowingly become an integral and basic part of life. Whether you are from a metropolitan city or a rural township, possessing your own car gives you control over your own movement. But at the same time with the present scenario of world economy and car market, new car prices are steading scaling up. Since new cars are getting expensive, it is difficult to invest for new cars in every few years for many people who depend on their hard-earned money to own their car. For small car part issue, you do not need to purchase a new one, all you require is auto repair.

    Importance of Auto Repair and Maintenance

    When you own a car, it is important to offer the required maintenance as well. Without maintenance no machine can offer you best performance. Whether you speak of mileage, gear functioning, smooth running, etc., on time maintenance is the key solution to smooth functioning, and it counts to auto repair needs. In times for repair for a car you need to invest a lot.  With maintenance you eliminate the chances of repairs which are often caused when a car is not serviced for a long time. Maintenance is therefore the only way how you can minimize your car’s repair costings over time. Long delay to car problems lead to major car issues and this will lead to increase the car repair costings. It is even better if you can start regular maintenance right from day one after you buy a new car.

    Timely Maintenance Can:

    • Improve performance
    • Enhance reliability
    • Minimize repair costs
    • Bag you a great resale value

    But despite everything there are certain times and certain symptoms of your car which you should not ignore at all, for your car might need professional service immediately. So, check out for these symptoms to know it your car needs an auto repair.

    Strange Smells

    Odd smell like that of maple syrup can be a common indication of cooling system of your car having some issues.  Smells can be different for different problems like there could mold growth in heat vents or AC duct etc. sometimes while running your car you might even get a burning smell if there is a clutch problem.

    Weird Noises

    A Weird Sound Can Be Indication for Various Types of Problem Like: 

    • Worn out brake pads
    • Problem in transmission
    • Gear problem

    Apart from these there are several other signs for which a car owner should be alert. Many a times fluids like the transmission fluid, oil or even coolant can leak. If such leakages go without notice for a long time the result could that your car will stop running or you will need to pour a lot of your dollars at auto repair shop. Besides that, many a time indicator lights, brakes, accelerators, gear board and several other parts of the car do not function properly. Ignoring even your battery lights which may be a sign of problem, ABS light can sometimes a drain a lot of repair cost. This is the reason why manufacturers, experts all prefer and recommend routine servicing so that a professional can check if your car parts are working smoothly.

    Therefore, To Keep Track of Your Maintenance Schedules:

    • Check if you can set reminder with your auto shop
    • Make your own note to keep a track of all schedules

    Thus, keep continuous check on your car’s performance and ensure that you avail all your services timely to save from bigger expenditures.

  • Volkswagen Mechanic: Here Is Why You Should Hire A Certified Specialist!

    Volkswagen Mechanic: Here Is Why You Should Hire A Certified Specialist!

    A car is a necessity in as well as a privy commodity, and therefore, you need to ensure that it remains in its best shape. In order to ensure that your car performs optimally, you will need to maintain it the right way.

    When you own a Volkswagen, it is a given that you value quality workmanship, and do not settle for anything less than the best. So, when it comes to routine maintenance, you cannot trust anyone except a certified Volkswagen mechanic. A Volkswagen specialist knows the right way to care for your car.

    Why Hire A Specialist Volkswagen Mechanic?

    When you want to ensure that your car runs smoothly, you know that routine maintenance is important. Hence, you need to have a trusted mechanic that you can go to. Having a trusted mechanic assures you that you will have someone to help you out in case of an emergency. While there are local mechanics who can help you out with your needs, when you own a Volkswagen, it is best to opt for a Volkswagen mechanic. Wondering what is so special about hiring a certified mechanic for Volkswagen?

    Benefits Have Been Listed Down Below:

    • Knowledge: There is no denying that a specialized mechanic for Volkswagen has in-depth knowledge about Volkswagen models. Every car manufacturer ensures that their car is different from the rest. Hence, in order to figure out what the issue with your car may be, the mechanic needs to know how your car had been manufactured and installed in the first place. Going to a certified mechanic for Volkswagen will ensure that your mechanic understands your car perfectly.
    • Experience: As they are a certified mechanic for Volkswagen, they will have years of experience dealing with the Volkswagen model. Thus, you will not only pay them for their skills but their experience as well. With their experience, they can get your issue fixed the right way, and without any damage.
    • Equipment and Skills: To become a certified mechanic for Volkswagen, the professional will need to prove their skills with different Volkswagen models. Additionally, once they have become a certified mechanic for the brand, they will have the tools and equipment recommended by Volkswagen. Hence you will be assured that your car receives the best (and recommended) treatment.
    • Reliable: Going to a certified mechanic for Volkswagen ensures that they have the skills and tools necessary to get the job. Hence, you can rely on their skills, and be assured that no harm will come to your car. Thus, they are reliable and will always make sure that your car gets the treatment it deserves. As they will use the recommended tools and equipment, in case you need a new part installed, you can be assured that everything is authentic.
    • Saves Time: When you got a certified Volkswagen mechanic, you will save yourself time. A certified mechanic has in-depth knowledge of all models. Hence, they can understand, discover, and fix the issue with your Volkswagen car much quicker than if you were to go to a standard mechanic to get the job done. So, if you need to get your car fixed as soon as possible, it is best to stick to a certified mechanic.

    Conclusion:

    Because of the above benefits you should ensure that you take the best care of it. When you want the best care, it is best to go to a Volkswagen mechanic. This way, you can always be assured of their work quality and ensure that your car performs as it should.

  • 5 Signs Telling You Your Car Needs a Transmission Repair

    5 Signs Telling You Your Car Needs a Transmission Repair

    It’s a fact that one vehicle is different from the other but at some or the other point in its existence; it will need a transmission repair. To know whether it has to be repaired, replaced or serviced, this will depend on for how long has your car been driven with transmission issues and also how much damage this has caused, so if you want to minimize the damage and also the expenses that you would have to spend on transmission repairs then you must first learn to know when your vehicle is ready for a repair and all about this will be talked about today.

    1. Having Problems With Shifting Gears

    When you start to experience problems with shifting your gears then it’s a first and foremost signal that you need to go for transmission repairs, you can be confident about this because gears are an integral part of the transmission. Some of the symptoms are falling out of the gear when you are driving, hesitation while you put your car onto the gear, experiencing jerks while shifting from one gear to the other if any of this is happening you should go look for a transmission repairs specialist.

    2. Experiencing Unusual Sounds

    In most often cases transmission troubles are first indicated by unusual sounds produced by the vehicle. These sounds might include whining or buzzing and many other kinds of sounds. One more thing you should keep in mind is that if your car produces a lot of noises even when at neutral then you should never ignore it and better get it checked either by a transmission repairs specialist or any other mechanic because there might be several other causes of this sound other than transmission. But you should get it checked.

    3. Cloudy or Burnt Transmission Fluid

    If you have ever taken a look at the transmission fluid then you will know that it is bright red in appearance and also has a distinctive sweet smell. But when you notice it turn opaque and appears dark or even in most of the cases it will either look or smell burnt, this may continue even when you are travelling in your vehicle you will experience a sense of some kind of burnt smell. If you find this smell in your vehicle also then, it is a danger and you should go for transmission repairs as soon as possible.

    4. Grinding Between Gears

    The most obvious sign that your vehicle can give about transmission repairs is by producing a sort of grinding or any other type of sound. The sound can be the result of a worn-out clutch or some other issues like that, and in this case, also you should keep in mind that grinding between gears does not only occur when there is a problem with the transmission but can also happen for other issues but whatever it is, it for sure is not to be ignored and you should see someone who can help you with it.

    5. Leakage of Transmission Fluid

    Have you observed any sort of red fluid on your driveway? It doesn’t matter whether it is either clear or cloudy you should see the mechanic or someone else that can help you with it. Leaking does not necessarily mean to take your vehicle for transmission repairs, but if the leak keeps going, there are high possibilities for huge damage that will also prove to be very expensive.

    So, these were the signs to know if it’s time for a transmission repair, and hope you found these tips helpful.

  • Corporate Car Service- Advantages of Using Them

    Big corporate leave no stones unturned to impress and retain the goodwill of their valuable clients or customers. Among the many services and gestures done by corporate is to maintain goodwill by hiring corporate car services to cater to the client’s needs. If you are a business owner, then you will know that your ‘customer is king,’ and they must feels good and special.

    Read more about the advantages of soliciting corporate car services below.

    Why to choose a corporate car service 

    You have always tried the best to give a personal touch in welcoming and entertaining your corporate guests, but you must know that there is nothing like a corporate car service that makes your client feels so special. Imagine someone welcoming you with a pickup and drop facility from airport to your office or hotel in a luxury limousine. Corporate car services make helps the passenger feel relaxed and tension free. Moreover, the client can use his valuable time focusing on strengthening business relationship with you rather than concentrating more on arranging for his daily transportation to your office and his hotel. It is also important to remember that after a tiring day, there is nothing more comfortable for your client than a ride back to the hotel.

    Advantages of using a corporate car service

    • If you are sending your executive for an important meeting or if you are to receive a very important client then you need to make sure that in both cases the person reaches the meeting on time fresh and full of energy If your executive reaches a meeting late or exasperated wading through traffic, then you might miss out a good deal from your hand. In the second case, if your important client had a very uncomfortable and stressful time, your business interests could be at stake.
    • Offering corporate car service is the best way to convey to your client how much the company values the client.

    The company need not worry about the logistics of transporting the client; as such matters can be taken care of the car agency. Moreover, it also permits the client the freedom to move around the city for these personal requirements also.

    Choose the right and best service 

    Once you are convinced that you require a corporate car service then do a little market survey and choose the best option available in your locality. The reasons for which you need to choose a good car service is that you need a professional approach and do not really want to make your client disappointed with the experience. If you go with the best option, you get the best services. Selecting one might be a little difficult just see if they provide the following services:

    • A professional driver who can communicate well and knows chauffeuring etiquettes.
    • The company providing the most competitive rates along with all the required services.
    • The company that has a good reputation and good customer reviews in the market.
  • Auto Body Scratch Repair: Important Things to Keep in Mind

    Auto Body Scratch Repair: Important Things to Keep in Mind

    A car is generally a prized possession of the owner. Every car owner wants their cars to be in smooth and shining condition. Thus, when your car gets even the tiniest of the scratches, you generally get panicked, but this is something that you cannot avoid. Hence, you would need the help of the right auto body shop that offers scratch repair service. This process requires professional help, and thus you will have to find a car servicing and repairing centre that will offer you auto body scratch repair. However, there are few things to consider before you decide to visit a professional shop.

    Tips to follow:

    Some of the things that you should consider before visiting a service centre are mentioned below.

    Study the scratch

    Study your car properly and if you notice any damaging signs, you must first check whether the mark is deep or not. In case it is deep enough, then you must contact the scratch repair company. But, first, try to wash it with water and rubbing cloth on it. If the mark is not deep enough, it might be easily wiped off.

    Consider your budget

    The next thing to consider while going for auto body scratch repair is to keep the expenses in mind. You should know that the process is not very cheap and the more damaged your car is the more you will have to pay. The costing of removing the scratch depends on how deep and big the scratch is, if it requires more mending work, then probably you would need to spend more money. Hence, it is advisable to shortlist a few auto body shops and then compare their rates before finalizing one.

    Decide on the level of repairing

    While choosing an auto body scratch repair you will have to know what portion of your car you want to get repaired. You can only fix the place where the car has got scratches or you can remodel your entire car. Fixing simply the scratch will, of course, cost you less money than painting the whole car. If you are running on a tight budget, then it is better to fix the particular area that has got the scratch. However, if your car has become quite old and looks worn out, then you can go for the full-body servicing of your car. This will cost you more but will give your car a fresh new look.

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    Selecting the right auto body shop for scratch repair:

    Well, you can easily spot auto body shops around you, but not every shop can provide you with the kind of service you are looking for. Hence it becomes important that you must choose the right company. Here are a few tips that will help you in making the right decision:

    • The first step is to know about the available service centres at your place. You can search the internet or ask for recommendations and you will come up with a lot of places that offer auto body scratch repair.
    • After preparing the list you will have to compare the available centres on various parameters to pick a single one among them that will best suit your needs. You can call up the centres individually to know more about their services.
    • Trust word of mouth, if you are out there looking for an auto body shop, then trust word of mouth. Visit the service center and speak to the customers. They will let you know about the working of the auto body shop.
    • You should be clear about what kind of car servicing you want and you should only proceed if the centre offers that service. You can also visit a company’s website to get a free quote on the charges that you might be spending.

    The above-mentioned tips will help you choose the right car scratch repair company. Make sure that you choose a credible and experienced company.

     

     

  • How Often Should You Get Your Car Serviced?

    How Often Should You Get Your Car Serviced?

    If you are passionate about your car then you must want to know how often you should be getting car service done. It depends not only how much you are driving the vehicle, but also how well the vehicle has been maintained. There are some standards that are set for oil changes and other such work and you need to know what they are so that you can keep your vehicle in the best shape possible. Here is everything you would need to know about when you should take your vehicle in for some maintenance.

    Oil Changes

    One of the main types of maintenance that you need to consider when it comes to car service and your vehicle is the oil changes. The typical rule of thumb for getting your oil changed in any vehicle is around every 3,000 miles or a period of 6 months. However, you might need to get it changed more frequently if you drive for long periods or if you are going at extremely high speeds. You should make sure to ask the expert mechanics what their recommendation is for your vehicle since it can depend on the model and type of oil.

    Engine Light

    If you check engine light comes on in your vehicle, then you need to make sure that you are heading over to the car service experts immediately. This might mean that there is something wrong with the vehicle or even something small, but it needs to be checked out right away.

    Take it to the mechanic and they would be able to do a car inspection to let you know what is wrong and they can check everything else while they are at it. Don’t drive your vehicle around with this light on since it can cause bigger problems that might already be there.

    Major Maintenance

    There are some other major types of car service that should be done every 12,000 miles or 12 months with a maximum period of 24 months in between. Some of the things that are looked at during this time include:

    • Electric and lighting functions
    • Replacing the air filter
    • Checking the entire cooling and heating systems
    • Checking the alignment of the wheels
    • Fitting a new fuel filter and spark plugs

    Make sure that if you have any problem that you are taking the vehicle in for a checkup, but otherwise you don’t need to go more than every year.

    Seasonal Services

    There are some maintenance processes that should be done seasonally, including at the beginning of winter and at the start of summer. Some of the main car services include the following checklist:

    • Tires
    • Brakes
    • Windshield fluid and oil levels
    • Suspension
    • Steering
    • Windshield wipers

    This is just maintenance that would be done to ensure that all of the fluids are at the right levels, which can be topped off if required. It would also check to make sure that everything else is working properly.

    There are numerous things that you need to think about car service and how often you should be doing it.  You need to consider not only when your vehicle needs to get the oil changed, but also which the model of the vehicle and what makes it better and safe

    Also, you should think about the standard maintenance that needs to be done at least once a year to ensure that all of the fluids and other items are at the right levels. The manufacturing companies and the servicing centers can help you to understand when you need to go for service for maintenance.