Beware of Honda Rollaways!

If you own a 2003-2004 Honda Pilot or Odyssey, please read closely! It is being reported that these vehicles can roll away when the key is removed from the ignition. This ignition switch flaw has caused multiple injuries as well as some property damage.  

If you own one of these makes and and models and suspect a problem, don’t hesitate to get your car looked at. For more information on this story, check out this article: http://www.autonews.com/article/20121005/OEM11/121009922/honda-pilot-odyssey-probed-by-u-s-for-rollaways-in-2003-2004-models

 

Tainted Fuel in the Midwest

Last week, oil company BP released 50,000 barrels of off specification fuel. This fuel is not safe for use in automobiles and may damage your car. The residue in this gas can cause hard starting and other drivability  troubles. Even though the gas was recalled and has most likely been replaced by now, you may have some left in your tank.  

If you are having a hard starting issue or other engine problems, bring your car to AAMCO. We can clean your fuel system and repair any damages caused by the gas. You can also call BP’s customer hotline at: (800) 333-3991,

Watch Out for the Cadillac!

A few months ago, I wrote a post about classic cars. At AAMCO,there is always at least one cool car in the parking lot. Some are there to get work done, but most are owned by Tom.

One of these cars, the 1963 Cadillac DeVille to be exact, has been out on the   road a lot lately. The Cadillac was on display in the Spirit of Monticello festival. Here, car enthusiasts could examine the car and ask any questions they wanted. The car got a lot of attention that night; people love its classic design and large size.

The Cadillac isn’t all for show though. Last weekend Tom took his family to the local drive in theater for a movie night in the classic car, and he like to drive it around town every now and then. If you’re ever in Lafayette, keep an eye out for the Cadillac. You just may spot the classic–it’s hard to miss!

AAMCO Receives an Award

A few months ago, AAMCO of Lafayette received the award for Customer Satisfaction performance. The entire staff was given this award for the highest quality of customer service and satisfaction. Out of all 850 AAMCO centers, AMMCO of Lafayette was chosen to receive this honor. With an award this great, why would you take your car anywhere else for a repair?

Car Ride Entertainment

About to embark on a long car ride during this summer vacation? Well, I am sure you do not want to hear the phrase ‘Are we there yet?’ a thousand times. Check out some different ways to entertain the kids (and maybe yourself) while in the car!

• Allow the kids to pack 3 activities they enjoy. Anything from a Nintendo DS to a coloring book.
• Check to see if the destination you are going to has informational CD’s or podcasts. Let the kids listen to these to learn all they can about the place before getting there.
• Play the ‘sign game’ with the older kids. Take turns finding a word that starts with the designated letter of the alphabet. You could start with ‘A’ and then the kids can take over with the rest of the letters.
• Before the trip, make an observation list or a BINGO card of items they will see along the way. This could include a pine tree, a 55 mile per hour sign, a lake or anything else you can think of! Have a sucker or other treat as a reward.
• Start a progressive story. Kids love using their imagination. One person comes up with one sentence and then the next person comes up with the next part of the story.
• If you can find a mad-lib book, grab it. Mad-libs are a fun, easy way to entertain the family for hours!
• Play a game of 20 questions. Or play I-Spy. This could keep you busy for a long time.
• Make sure to have snacks in the car. One way to make everyone grumpy is to not have food.
• Finally, just have a good ol’ fashion sing-a-long.

Whether you are playing a game or listening to an informational audio tape, the kids will be more entertained and happier. Hopefully, these tips will make for a smooth car ride!

Is Your Car Ready for Summer?

As the weather gets warmer and summer approaches, it is important to make sure that your car is ready for the weather change. There are a few simple steps you can take to ensure you and your automobile’s safety as we enter the warm season.

One of the most overlooked areas of a car in the winter is the air conditioning. Since it’s already cold outside, it’s hard to tell whether or not you’re a/c still works as well as it could. The next time there is a decently sunny day outside, hop in your car and crank the air. If the air doesn’t cool off after ten minutes or so, you might need a recharge. Get your car in as soon as you can to avoid the midsummer rush when everyone needs their air fixed.

It’s also important to check your wiper blades. Winter takes quite a toll on your blades. All of the ice and snow wear them down so they don’t work as well. Get some new wipers so you will be ready for the spring and summer rainstorms. This will give you optimum visibility as you drive in the rain.

While you’re thinking about maintenance, it’s always a good idea to make you your cooling system is ready for the heat. Check your coolant level, and be aware that you should replace your coolant every 2 to 3 years. If you do decide to check your coolant, always remember to do it when your engine is cool.

Luckily for you, AAMCO can check all of these things for you! To make sure your car is ready for summer, you can do it yourself or have a certified AAMCO technician take a look. The choice is yours, but AAMCO sure would be easier!

Matrix PRC Presents: The Hope and a Future Banquet

On April 17^th, AAMCO Lafayette will be sponsoring the Hope and a Future Banquet. This annual banquet helps to fund Matrix Pregnancy Resource Center. The banquet begins at 6:30 pm, and tickets are $30 per person. For more information and to register, you can visit the Matrix PRC website.

This year, the guest speaker will be Carol Everett. Carol has experienced pregnancy termination firsthand, as she was involved in the operation of four pregnancy termination clinics from 1977 to 1983. At these clinics, she oversaw 35,000 pregnancy terminations. Carol experienced a change in her life when she came to know Jesus Christ as her personal savior, and now she is committed to safeguarding the health of women and their babies all over this nation.

This event is an great way to support a worthy cause. Hope to see you there!