Tampa Bay Lightning updated their profile picture.
September 28 at 10:55 PM ·
By popular demand in Valrico, Fishhawk, Riverview, Brandon and Tampa customers we are extending our Travel Package deal through 8-4-2020 for Labor Day weekend! Don't miss out! A huge thank you to the customers who requested the extension. We're happy to be here for you!
As vehicles begin to age, they tend to require more repair and service as internal parts start to wear down and become less effective.
This is why preventative maintenance is so important with older vehicles. Regular service will keep your older vehicle reliable on the road and save you money over time on repairs.
CARCARE.ORG
Preventative Maintenance More Important As Vehicles Age - Be Car Care Aware
★★★★★
"There service is great"
- B. M.
Are you a severe driver? Severe driving includes stop and go traffic, short commutes, heavy cargo/passenger loads, rough or mountainous roads, severe weather, and more.
The Car Care Council recommends that motorists be car care aware and take a few easy steps to reduce the effects that severe driving can have on their vehicles.
CARCARE.ORG
Take Action to Reduce Effects of Severe Driving - Be Car Care Aware
★★★★★
"First class service. Bob and Matt will take care of you and your needs. "
- C. P.
Test your vehicle knowledge!
What did fuel injection replace in many cars?
A. Leaded Fuel
B. The Carburetor
C. Manual Transmission
D. Water Cooling in the Radiator
★★★★★
"Auto repair, service and advice you can trust."
- J. C.
Don’t let your vehicle spook you!
Take care of your car’s fall maintenance now to keep your vehicle running at its best all October long. Important fall maintenance items include:
- Brake inspection
- Replace windshield wipers
- Check all fluids
- Inspect tires
- Test lights
- Check heater/defroster
★★★★★
"Accurate and thorough diagnosis and suggested solution. Warranted their work."
- J. N.
★★★★★
"I appreciate the work they did on Friday, rt. axel. They were quick and curious. Love these guys."
- B. E.
What is a brake bleed?
A brake bleed is the process of removing air from the brake lines to restore your brake system to its best. Over time, small amounts of air can become trapped in your vehicle’s brake line. Air in the brake lines can decrease the effectiveness of your brakes significantly. If your brakes feel soft or spongy, you may need a brake bleed.
★★★★★
"Great honest people"
- T. M.
Every time that someone mentions that they don’t have the proper setup to start camping, ask them one simple question. “Do you have a car?” If the answer is yes, then it’s time to fill them in on a little secret…It’s 100% possible to camp in your car! If you’re looking for ways to make car camping happen, here are some simple suggestions to get started.
AGIRLSGUIDETOCARS.COM
Gotta Get Away? 5 Ways Car Camping Has You Covered | A Girls Guide to Cars
Tampa Bay Rays
October 17 at 11:54 PM ·
WORLD SERIES BOUND!
★★★★★
"Great Service as always."
- R. C.
Don't miss out on all the fun!
Did you know that driving with excess junk in your trunk can have an effect on your vehicle?
An overloaded vehicle can:
- Decrease fuel efficiency
- Wear out your shocks and struts
- Wear down your tires faster
- Put your engine at risk of overheating
- Put you at risk for a tire blowout
- Reduce the effectiveness of your brakes
Keep your trunk empty and your vehicle clean to better maintain your vehicle overall.
We have all experienced a scary car symptom, such as seeing the check engine light turn on or the sound of rattling bones coming from underneath the hood. But have you ever experienced something spooky or paranormal while inside your car?
We are getting in the Halloween spirit and want to hear your spooky car story below!
★★★★★
"Very informative, completed the job in "
- T. C.
★★★★★
"Professional and timely service. Highly recommend."
- P. Y.
Who is guilty of this? 😂
Tampa Bay Rays
October 21 at 10:49 PM ·
Rays win! We're tied up 1-1
★★★★★
"Very reasonable family owned business. Prices you can’t beat, very knowledgeable and they keep you up to date on your car Super friendly "
- M. F.
★★★★★
"Consistent thoughtful service. Will not take our cars anywhere else "
- S. L.
Despite their relatively easy operation, cars are actually very complex machines. Cars need fuel to operate, but what does the engine actually do with it?
In general, a standard internal combustion engine — what the majority of fuel-powered vehicles have today — uses air combined with gasoline to produce power. It is a complicated process that relies on many different parts and specific timing.
BLOG.NATIONWIDE.COM
Learn how car engines work
★★★★★
"I brought my car to Clarke Automotive after a family member recommended them. I will continue those recommendations as I had a positive experience the whole way through! I rarely can say that about businesses that deal with cars. "
- K. B.
Come join the holiday festivities Clarke Automotive for a chance to win 1 of the 3 top cash prizes!
#piebakingcontest #pie #holidayseason
WED, OCT 28
Pie Baking Contest
WED, OCT 28
Pie Baking Contest
WED, OCT 28
Halloween Costume Contest
★★★★★
"Always professional & friendly. Takes good care of our vehicle(s)."
- C. S.
Congratulations to our Grand Prize winner for the Halloween costume contest!
Whether you're a seasoned driver or new behind the wheel, there are certain things that every driver should know that they don't teach you in Driver's Ed - how to check tire pressure, how to check tire tread, how to jump-start a car, how to change a tire, and more.
What are some other things you wish you were taught when learning how to drive?
★★★★★
"I have not been going to Clarke Automotive for long, as this was the 2nd time they worked on my daughter's car. Excellent customer service, outstanding detail report on repairs that need to be made. Fairly priced and honest. "
- K. S.
When winter arrives, the last thing you want breaking down is your car's heater and defroster.
Not only is a frosty car inconvenient—it's also dangerous. Heat is needed to remove ice and fog build-up on your windshield. Without a working heater, your ability to see the road clearly can be severely hindered.
If you notice that your heater is faulty or doesn't work as efficiently as it used to, it's time to have it fixed!
Do you like to bake? Interested in a chance to win up to $350? Find out how here...https://www.clarkeauto.net/blog/pie-baking-contest
CLARKEAUTO.NET
Pie Baking Contest! - Clarke Automotive Systems
★★★★★
"5 Starts all day long. Honest and upfront. "
- S. C.
This is your vehicle’s oil pressure warning light. While it may look like a genie in a bottle, it’s actually an image of an old fashioned oil can.
It indicates that your car is either low on oil or your oil pump isn’t circulating enough fluid. This is a critical warning light, since driving with low oil can quickly damage your vehicle’s engine.
This weeks winner is Brandi Carroll!!!
Peanut Butter Pie with Frostbite Brownie Crust
★★★★★
"Great service. Friendly and honest work"
- C. A.
As the days get shorter, it becomes increasingly important to check that your vehicle’s wipers and lights are all in proper working order.
You may not be able to see from the driver’s seat if a light isn’t working, so take the time to test all exterior lights and replace any if needed. Also, test your wiper blades and replace them if they skip, smear, squeak, or appear to be dried out or frayed.
CARCARE.ORG
As Days Get Shorter, Check Vehicle Lights, Wipers - Be Car Care Aware
★★★★★
"They are excellent."
- C. C.
One way to avoid a turkey of a Thanksgiving road trip is to make sure the vehicle you will be driving is running well. A 10-minute pre-trip check is a quick and easy way to help avoid the inconvenience of a breakdown many miles away from home, says the non-profit Car Care Council.
Check the following:
- Fluids
- Belts & Hoses
- Tires
- Lights
- Wipers
CARCARE.ORG
Don’t Let Your Thanksgiving Road Trip be a Turkey - Be Car Care Aware
★★★★★
"They were very polite and explained everything to me."
- D. E.
★★★★★
"Great service at very fair price!!! So glad we found this shop!! Highly recommend!!!! If you have been looking for an "honest mechanic" and great service, look no further!!! "
- K. G.
Check engine light on?
The check engine light is your vehicle's way of letting you know that something is wrong. But don't stress - the best thing you can do is bring your vehicle into our shop for an inspection. Driving with the light on can make matters worse, and we will help find the solution that best fits the needs of you and your vehicle.
★★★★★
"A very trustworthy car repair business and very friendly and efficient. Only place I will take my car for repairs."
- M. R.
Does your car sputter when you step on the gas? If so, this can be an indication of a problem with the fuel system, worn spark plugs, a bad catalytic converter, and more. A vehicle inspection at our shop can determine the cause of the issue and the repairs needed to get you back on the road with a restored vehicle.
★★★★★
"We have been using Clark Automotive for about 15 years. Always had good service, fair pricing.
Thank you Bob & Matt"
- W. B.
Happy Thanksgiving!
★★★★★
"They are very helpful and great communication. "
- M. J.
Nobody wants to get into their vehicle when they have somewhere to be and find that their car won't start. Many of our minds will go to the same place - the battery must be dead. But, if so, why? Here are 8 things that can drain your vehicle's car battery, even when your car isn't running.
CARBIBLES.COM
8 Things That Will Drain Your Car Battery | Car Bibles
★★★★★
"Great price. Great service "
- B. R.
★★★★★
"My trusted go-to mechanic for three years now. Honest and fair. Great place, highly recommended."
- S.
You may not see them, or know much about them, but engine belts are always working to keep your vehicle moving. Losing a belt can mean immediate trouble for the engine and a breakdown for you.
To avoid being stranded, the non-profit Car Care Council recommends that motorists review their car's owner’s manual to ensure that belts are inspected and replaced at the proper intervals.
★★★★★
"very helpful, thanks"
- T. B.
Driving in wet conditions can cause several issues, including lowered visibility or the need for longer braking distances. It can also cause your car to hydroplane.
Hydroplaning causes you to lose control of your vehicle, so understanding what to do in this situation is important. Learn what to do while hydroplaning here:
BLOG.NATIONWIDE.COM
Learn how to handle your vehicle when hydroplaning
★★★★★
"Friendly, Professional. kept me informed on how repair progressed, no surprises"
- J.
Properly working brake pads are critical for your safety on the road. Here are some signs that you may be due for a brake pad replacement:
- The brake pedal pulses or vibrates when you press it.
- Your vehicle takes longer to stop than it normally does.
- A scraping metal or squealing noise when you brake.
- Car pulls to one side while braking
★★★★★
"Quality work as usual. Most personalized and curtious service I have ever experienced."
- M. C.
Motor oil is essential to your vehicle’s operation, protecting your engine from overheating, damage, and grime build-up.
There are a number of different options when it comes to types of motor oil and additives. Check out this essential guide to motor oil to learn more about what motor oil is best for your vehicle!
CARBIBLES.COM
The Essential Guide to Motor Oil | Car Bibles
★★★★★
"Very professional, honest "
- M. S.
Whether you are driving your dream car or just own a car that gets you from point A to point B, what do you love most about your vehicle?
★★★★★
"Clarke Automotive is honest and always does a good job!
They can be trusted with your vehicle."
- D. B.
Do you notice a strong smell of gas while driving or find yourself refueling more often than usual? These are the most common symptoms of a fuel leak. This is an issue that needs to be repaired quickly.
Read more on why it isn't safe to drive with a fuel leak.
CARBIBLES.COM
Is it Safe to Drive with a Fuel Leak? | Car Bibles
★★★★★
"I would never take my car for service anywhere else. Clarke is professional, personal, knowledgeable and honest. Besides, Matt is a magician."
- C. R.
Did you know that your vehicle's tires can wear down significantly faster if the tire pressure is low, the wheel alignment is off, or the suspension and steering components are worn?
When your tires have very low tread and are excessively worn, your ability to slow, stop, and control your vehicle is drastically reduced and your safety on the road is at risk.
★★★★★
"Fair, honest, and friendly service"
- R. C.
We are starting to get into the holiday spirit 🎄
Check out this truck that is stunningly decorated for the holidays!
★★★★★
"Got the job done in good time and up front . Very happy with the job they did and keeping me informed. "
- J. P.
Driving with worn shocks or struts can result in an uncomfortable ride and a decrease in your ability to properly control your vehicle.
If you notice that your vehicle bounces excessively over bumps or vibrates at high speeds, it's time to have your suspension system inspected.
★★★★★
"Excellent and thorough work"
- J. G.
A car heater problem can be a bother, especially on cold days. Reasons behind a faulty car heater can include:
- Low coolant
- Bad heater core
- Clogged or broken heating controls
- Failing thermostats
★★★★★
"We use Clarke's for both our personal and business vehicles. I highly recommend this company for any automotive needs."
- K. C.
★★★★★
"This company has excellent and knowledgeable staff, who understand the business and how to take care of their customers. I highly recommend Clarke Automotive for quality and affordability. They took care of my new tires, oil change, and some standard maintenance. I will be coming back to them in the future."
- T. C.
Do you notice a strong smell of gas while driving or find yourself refueling more often than usual? These are the most common symptoms of a fuel leak. This is an issue that needs to be repaired quickly.
Read more on why it isn't safe to drive with a fuel leak.
CARBIBLES.COM
Is it Safe to Drive with a Fuel Leak? | Car Bibles
Is your check engine light on? If so, we recommend having your vehicle inspected by one of our trusted mechanics as soon as possible.
The check engine light can oftentimes indicate an immediate issue, especially when paired with other symptoms.
★★★★★
"took my car to Clarke Automotive after having the worst experience with another car shop.
From the first phone call Bob and Matt treated me with respect and answer all my questions.
Mechanics did an excellent job and my car is runninng better than ever. This is my go to shop from now on. You can trust them. Im so grateful."
- D. R.
Understanding your vehicle's warning lights and what they represent will help you figure out what to do next once a light turns on.
Read more about the 5 most important warning lights and what they indicate.
CARBIBLES.COM
5 Most Important Warning Lights on Your Dashboard | Car Bibles
★★★★★
"I took my car to Clarke Automotive after having the worst experience with another car shop.
From the first phone call Bob and Matt treated me with respect and answer all my questions.
Mechanics did an excellent job and my car is runninng better than ever. This is my go to shop from now on. You can trust them. Im so grateful."
- D. R.
Merry Christmas Eve!
★★★★★
"Very good Customer Service from Bob & Matt Clarke. They really do care about keeping your car running well.
I do like the specials, for cars. It really helps, when you are retired & on a budget.
"
- R. N.
★★★★★
"Professional knowledgeable "
- M. S.
Start the new year fresh by taking care of your vehicle’s outstanding maintenance!
Not only does routine auto care and preventative maintenance help keep your car safe and dependable, but it helps save money and avoid car trouble.
★★★★★
"Very professional business and very clear about explaining the work. My car's problems were fixed and I feel much more at ease driving it"
- S. D.
Happy New Year’s Eve!
★★★★★
"Got an oil change today and everyone was really nice and they did a great job!:)"
- M. B.
Is your check engine light on? If so, we recommend having your vehicle inspected by one of our trusted mechanics as soon as possible.
The check engine light can oftentimes indicate an immediate issue, especially when paired with other symptoms.
★★★★★
"I love these guys...and so does my car (-:"
- D. B.
Your vehicle’s transmission is critical to the overall operation of your car, which is why an issue with the transmission should always be inspected at the first sign of trouble.
Here are 3 transmission problems that you should never ignore:
1. Issues switching gears
2. Leaking transmission fluid
3. Check engine warning light is on
★★★★★
"This will be our 16th year as a customer of Clarke Automotive. To say the least, we are very satisfied with their professionalism, work and the cost for the work done."
- T. W.
When’s the last time you replaced your vehicle’s cabin air filter?
The cabin air filter, typically located behind the glove compartment, is responsible for filtering the air that comes into the cabin of your vehicle. This helps to remove pollutants and other contaminants.
Cabin air filters typically need to be replaced every 20,000 miles or so, and breathing in dirty air can be a danger to your health.
★★★★★
"Without a doubt the best, most honest, and most dependable mechanic I've experienced. Would highly recommend to anyone. "
- J. L.
★★★★★
"Professional knowledgeable "
- M. S.
★★★★★
"Clean building, friendly staff."
- A. L.
You may not see them, or know much about them, but engine belts are always working to keep your vehicle moving. Losing a belt can mean immediate trouble for the engine and a breakdown for you. To avoid being stranded, it is recommended that motorists review their car's owner’s manual to ensure that belts are inspected and replaced at the proper intervals.
★★★★★
"excellent service. We needed the plastic outdoor door handle for our 2011 RAV 4. Took the car in for Matt to see what need repair at no charge. He ordered the door handle, called us in less than a week to make an appointment have it replaced. Within an hour, the door handle was expertly replaced (and the inside of the door had to be removed). Friendly, expert people to work with. "
- M. R.
Are your brakes trying to tell you something? Look out for these 7 signs that can indicate an issue with your brakes.
★★★★★
"I have used Clarke Automotive for the past 4 years and I have never been disappointed. They can and do stand by their work because their mechanics are well qualified. Although they are not the cheapest, their prices are fair and reasonable. They may recommend other work, but I have never thought they were up-selling me. I whole-heartedly recommend Clarke Automotive to my neighbors and friends and anyone who might read this review."
- S. P.
Do you know the difference between a muffler and an exhaust? These are two vehicle components that are often confused for one another.
The exhaust in your vehicle is responsible for reducing the byproducts and harmful gases produced by your car’s engine.
The muffler helps to minimize the noise that the engine makes during the internal combustion process.
When you press on your brake pedal, the hydraulic pressure of the brake fluid causes the calipers to press the brake pad into the rotor. This friction between the rotor and the pad stops your car.
A brake fluid leak can happen due to damaged brake lines, loose fittings or clamps, a broken caliper, and more. When the brake fluid leaks, you may experience partial or total loss of braking pressure. This is why it is so important to have any brake fluid leak addressed as soon as possible.
CARBIBLES.COM
Why You Shouldn't Drive with a Brake Fluid Leak | Car Bibles
★★★★★
"The whole staff is super nice and helpful. They exhaust all options in terms of pricing depending on the situation and they throughly explain what ifs etc. 5 stars would recommend."
- J. W.
Check out the most anticipated cars of 2021 - all of which are next level when it comes to technology, design, and performance.
POPULARMECHANICS.COM
These Are the Most Anticipated Cars of 2021
★★★★★
"They do the job right. They explain what needs to be done and what can be deferred. They are always honest. "
- B. C.
Fully autonomous cars aren’t that far in the future, and the basis of this technology is already implemented in many newer vehicles today. This technology is called ADAS, or advanced driver-assistance systems.
On a small scale, ADAS are intelligent electronic systems built into cars to aid drivers by helping to avoid risky situations and accidents. On a large scale, ADAS technology is one of the base steps toward fully autonomous driving.
Examples of ADAS technology include lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and self-parking.
CARBIBLES.COM
ADAS: Everything You Need To Know | Car Bibles
★★★★★
"Fantastic honest service! I'm a new fan and will be bringing my car to them for all my services from now on. They cleaned up a mess from a previous large named dealership and conducted needed services that were missed by them as well. Pricing was more than reasonable. "
- M. H.
★★★★★
"Clarke Automotive is the best auto shop in this area. I’ve tried others and will always come here in the future. They take a personal interest in what your vehicle needs and they don’t try to add unnecessary services.
I recommend Clarke Automotive with enthusiasm. "
- G. T.
Car batteries are often taken for granted until they simply stop working, and usually at the worst time. A dead battery can be an inconvenience at best and, at worst, may leave you stranded somewhere. That’s why it’s important to know when to replace your car battery. They typically only last between 3-5 years, and warning signs of a dying battery include:
- Engine is slow to start
- Check engine light is on
- Dim headlights
- Electrical problems
- Corroded battery terminals
★★★★★
"Amazing family owned shop! They took meticulous care and consideration when inspecting my new vehicle and discovered some problems with the car that the auto dealership didn’t even catch. They were extreme helpful and saved me huge headache and expensive repair bill had my auto issue gotten any worse. Ps. Bon is the coolest man alive ! "
- U. M.
Changing a flat tire can certainly be an inconvenience, but it’s also manageable if you’re prepared with the right tools and know-how. Fixing a flat is something every driver should know how to do. Read more about how to here:
MAHALODAILY.COM
How to Change a Flat Tire
★★★★★
"Great Service"
- A. V.
When you press on your brake pedal, the hydraulic pressure of the brake fluid causes the calipers to press the brake pad into the rotor. This friction between the rotor and the pad stops your car.
A brake fluid leak can happen due to damaged brake lines, loose fittings or clamps, a broken caliper, and more. When the brake fluid leaks, you may experience partial or total loss of braking pressure. This is why it is so important to have any brake fluid leak addressed as soon as possible.
CARBIBLES.COM
Why You Shouldn't Drive with a Brake Fluid Leak | Car Bibles
We’ve all been there before - you arrive home and rush out of your vehicle, eager to get inside and rest. However, doing a quick check of your vehicle to see if you need to bring anything inside with you can make a huge difference, especially when it comes to these 7 items that you should never leave overnight in your car:
- Food & Drink
- Aerosol Cans
- Sunscreen
- Lighters
- Plastic Bottles
- Batteries
- Electronics
★★★★★
"Great service as usual! "
- L. C.
Is your vehicle stocked with emergency items, just in case? It is recommended to carry the following items in your car to help with emergency situations:
- First aid kit
- Spare tire, lug wrench, and jack
- Water and non-perishable food
- Phone charge and emergency numbers
- Flashlight
- Tool kit
- Jumper cables
★★★★★
"Awesome. They kept me updated during the process"
- P. G.
★★★★★
"Good price for work and always willing to assist with questions."
- D. S.
Did you know that your vehicle's fluids wear down over time? Fluids are essential to your vehicle's operation, which is why an inspection is recommended regularly to have these vital fluids checked. These fluids include the transmission fluid, brake fluid, power steering fluid, engine oil, and more.
★★★★★
"Always great service at my favorite local shop. "
- A. C.
Just another awesome day here at Clarke Automotive! We look forward to helping you maintain the high performance and quality of your vehicles!
It’s Super Bowl Sunday! Which team are you cheering on?
★★★★★
"New customer. Looking forward to using Clarke"
- L. H.
Your vehicle’s power steering system allows you to be able to steer with ease. Among the power steering system’s components is the power steering pump. A failing one can mean trouble when it comes to your safety on the road, which is why having it inspected at the first sign of trouble is key.
Read more to understand what symptoms can indicate a failing power steering pump.
CARBIBLES.COM
Symptoms of a Failing Power Steering Pump | Car Bibles
★★★★★
"Did a good job, very helpful"
- M. G.
Happy Valentine’s Day!
Don’t forget to show your car some love too with proper maintenance and care.
★★★★★
"Great Service"
- W. M.
When something is wrong with your vehicle, you may notice a strange symptom such as a funny smell or an unfamiliar sound. However, sometimes the only way to know when something goes awry is when your vehicle illuminates a warning sign on the dashboard.
Knowing what these symbols mean and what they indicate can help you better understand the severity of each warning and when to see an expert.
CARBIBLES.COM
Most Common Car Symbols Everyone Should Know | Car Bibles
★★★★★
"Excellent Customer service! This Team is professional & honest and will go above and beyond to make sure your car is diagnosed and fixed correctly. Great work guys!!!"
- K. B.
Dealing with a flat tire is never fun. It can bring all of your travel plans to a halt and is a hassle to deal with when it happens on the road. Here are some ways to help prevent a flat tire:
- Check your tire pressure regularly
- Rotate and balance tires
- Avoid hazards safely
- Don’t overload your vehicle
- Watch tire recalls
While catalytic converter theft is nothing new, there has been a spike in the last year of these critical vehicle parts. Interestingly enough, two of the three rare earth metals used in catalytic converters are worth more per ounce than gold, which could explain the increase in theft.
Hybrid models, such as the Toyota Prius, contain a higher percentage of these precious metals, making them more at risk. Parking in well-lit and enclosed areas such as garages, installing a cat shield, or installing a car alarm system are examples of ways to combat catalytic converter theft on your vehicle.
POPULARMECHANICS.COM
Thieves Are Trying to Steal Your Catalytic Converter Right Now
★★★★★
"These guys are amazing very professional and knowledgeable. So happy to have been directed to them. Went to Loves Goodyear for years and the customer service was always going backwards. Clark’s gets the value of building and maintaining relationships."
- S. B.
The exhaust system in your vehicle may get overlooked when a problem occurs, simply because it is hidden away and signs of an issue aren’t always obvious. Driving with an exhaust leak can be harmful in a number of ways, which is why it is important to have your car inspected at the first sign of trouble.
If your vehicle has an exhaust leak, you may notice the following:
- Strange noises coming from the engine bay or from around the catalytic converter
- Drop in fuel economy
- Check engine light is on
CARBIBLES.COM
Symptoms of an Exhaust Leak | Car Bibles
★★★★★
"Have used Clarke's Automotive Service for several years. Have always had
very good service, and excellent work by them. They will work with yo if
you have a problem to get it solved. Would recommend them anytime. "
- L. F.
Happy Valentine’s Day!
Don’t forget to show your car some love too with proper maintenance and care.
★★★★★
"Great Service"
- W. M.
What are the symptoms of needing a tune-up?
While the definition of a tune-up has changed over the years, your vehicle may be due for a major service if you notice the following signs:
- Car is hard to start
- Decreased fuel efficiency
- Rough acceleration
- Car vibrates excessively
- Frequent stalling
- Strange noises such as knocking or pinging
★★★★★
"Clarke's always delivers impeccable service and I know I can depend on them getting the job done correctly at a fair price. I wouldn't go anywhere else."
- B. N.
Remember: if you haven’t been driving your vehicle as often, you still need to have your oil changed at regular intervals. Even motor oil that isn’t being used will still continue to degrade over time, and engines that have old oil in them can begin to oxidize.
★★★★★
"After finally having done with dealership service, I was referred to Clarke Automotive and after one outstanding experience after another, I'm so glad to place my vehicle in such good and competent hands. The technicians are trained on the latest technologies, by the automakers themselves, so they are intimately familiar with my vehicle's every nuance. While waiting for my service to be completed, I so greatly appreciate Bob taking time to share with me why they use the particular parts and products they do, I learn something new about my vehicle and auto maintenance in general every time I visit. I know without a doubt I'm getting the best deal I can possibly get while getting the best for my vehicle. I can't recommend Clarke Automotive highly enough."
- P. P.
Did you know that a flashing check engine light indicates a more serious issue than a solid one?
A flashing check engine light is typically an indication of a major, urgent issue and is a sign that you need to have your vehicle repaired immediately.
★★★★★
"Had a problem with my boat trailer wheel bearings Matt Clarke was able to get me in get my bearings replaced and give me a back on the road big thumbs up to those guys👍"
- D. J.
Time to play #NameThatCarPart 🚗
What is the name of the car part in this picture? Comment your guess!
★★★★★
"Needless to say— Clarke Automotive have saved the day, once again! There’s nothing more rewarding than having to call a shop & knowing in the back of your head there would be a dedicated team ready to resolve whichever issue your vehicle might encounter. Their transparency allows a sense of reassurance in knowing not only you’re making an informed decision, but also by setting a clear expectation. Thanks guys! "
- R. A.
★★★★★
"THE BEST!"
- T.
What are the symptoms of needing a tune-up?
While the definition of a tune-up has changed over the years, your vehicle may be due for a major service if you notice the following signs:
- Car is hard to start
- Decreased fuel efficiency
- Rough acceleration
- Car vibrates excessively
- Frequent stalling
- Strange noises such as knocking or pinging
Are you due for a wheel alignment? Here are some warning signs to look out for:
- Tires are wearing unevenly or rapidly
- Crooked steering wheel when driving straight
- Car pulls left or right
- Squealing tires or noisy steering
- Vibrating steering wheel
★★★★★
"Excellent customer service!
Great employees and they called at every step to approve repairs.
"
- P. R.
Does turning on your car’s heater really help when the engine is overheating?
Yes! It draws warmth away from the engine and into the passenger compartment, lessening the burden on the engine's cooling system.
★★★★★
".."
- M. T.
You may not see them, or know much about them, but your vehicle’s belts work to keep your car moving and to power your vehicle’s various accessories. To avoid major trouble down the road, it is important to review and stay current with your vehicle's factory recommendations regarding when you should have your belts inspected and replaced.
★★★★★
"Wonderful customer service. An experience like no other. We have never been treated as great as we did today at an automotive center. Thank you God Bless. "
- E. R.
★★★★★
"Bob Clarke & Co. are one of the best auto teams I have encountered. They are responsive, professional and thoroughly knowledgeable. They treat you like family and their mechanics are top notch, reasonable - and on time. New to the area, I am confident that I have found my permanent "car guys". Thanks to Bob and his team for taking me in. You guys are the best!"
- M. K.
While the battery provides the power needed to start your car, the alternator is the component that recharges the battery to provide power for your vehicle’s electrical components using energy from the engine.
Alternators can last anywhere from 40,000 to 100,000 miles. A failing alternator has similar symptoms as a dying battery, so having your vehicle tested as soon as you have trouble starting your car or notice electrical failures can determine whether the issue is with the battery, alternator, or other starting and charging system part.
CARBIBLES.COM
What is the Lifespan of An Alternator? | Car Bibles
★★★★★
"great service"
- R. S.
#CarTip: Did you know that your vehicle's windshield wipers typically need to be replaced once or twice a year? Now is the perfect time to check your wipers and replace them if needed. Look for physical signs of fraying, tearing, or cracking.
★★★★★
"The owners of Clarke Automotive, Bob and Matt (Father & Son), went out of their way to provide great customer service, and helped save money on parts to repair my daughter’s car. Thank you! :)"
- C. B.
Let’s take a deeper look at a common vehicle symptom: vibrating at high speeds.
A car that vibrates at high speeds can indicate:
- Out of balance or unevenly worn tires
- Bad spark plugs
- Worn wheel bearings
- Bad ball joints
- Wrong fuel/air mixture in engine pistons
- Clogged or dirty fuel filter
- Bent axles
- Misaligned wheels
There are many potential causes for this common symptom, so having the issue inspected by a professional is the best course of action when it comes to fixing a vibrating vehicle.
★★★★★
"I like how Clarke explains what needs to be done and why. They will discuss the pros and cons and understand that you don’t want to spend all your $ on car maintenance. Also, they warrant their work (and I’ve benefited from that in a previous visit). "
- M. B.
What’s a car you love but don’t want to own, and why? 🤔
CARBIBLES.COM
What's a Car You Love but Don't Want to Own? | Car Bibles
★★★★★
"Always very satisfied with the service provided at Clarke Automotive. The only place I will have our vehicle serviced unless it is a warranty repair from the dealer. Have been going to Clarke Automotive for approximately 15 years and do not plan on changing. Everyone there is very professional, polite, and explains everything in detail prior to the service.
"
- T. W.
You may not see them, or know much about them, but your vehicle’s belts work to keep your car moving and to power your vehicle’s various accessories. To avoid major trouble down the road, it is important to review and stay current with your vehicle's factory recommendations regarding when you should have your belts inspected and replaced.
★★★★★
"Very professional and honest. Highly recommend"
- S. A.
What does different colored car exhaust smoke indicate?
Black - Clogged air filter or other issue causing the wrong air/fuel mixture in the engine
White - Cooling system leak
Blue - Oil leak inside the engine
Seeing excessive amounts of any colored exhaust smoke is an issue that needs to be inspected as soon as possible.
★★★★★
"Fantastic service, and the whole team cares about your well being, both financially and physically. I appreciate they help you reason though what would be the best decision for your needs and situation.
Don’t go anywhere else. This place is the best in Brandon. "
- A. P.
What’s the most useless (but interesting) car fact you know?
Here’s one: In the 1920s, a Ford Model T cost roughly $300 to buy.
★★★★★
"Experienced mechanics work is done in a timely manner "
- M. S.
Who else?! 🤣
