A Longer Life for your Old Friend

Master Mechanic Offers Timely Suggestions

It seems many people have decided to hang on to their faithful old family car in the garage instead of buying a new one. What with high prices, safety recalls and family budgets, it just makes sense. Well, join the crowd. Lots of people are doing just that during these difficult economic times.

If that is your decision, Master Mechanic Julio Avila says there are some things you need to do–It’s called preventive maintenance (PM). “It will save you a lot of time, money and grief,” he stresses.

Avila has 19 years of experience repairing and maintaining all makes of cars, trucks, RVs and busses. He tells his customers that if you treat your car right, it will treat you right. ‘That is why it is so important to stay ahead of problems before they develop–not during a breakdown miles from home on a strange highway, and especially during hot weather like we are having this summer,” he said. He added: “Extreme hot weather especially stresses batteries, tires, air conditioners and radiators.”

A complete preventative overall inspection includes checking all fluids, brakes, cooling system, A/C, and belts. It should also include a tune-up with a computer diagnostic to learn the condition of the engine to make sure the computers and sensors are up to “specs” according to Avila. “Then, once you know the true condition of your vehicle, start with the most important items,” he added, adding:”I consider the brakes item number #1 of all. The other items can drop you on the road and create an inconvenience and financial nightmare, but brake failure can kill you.”

“A preventive maintenance inspection takes about an hour and can save you (1) time, (2) fuel and (3) money, and you’ll avoid a nightmare breakdown somewhere down the road.” Avila added. “Here at Avila Auto Repair, we charge $40 for a complete PM inspection including pickup and delivery for cars in running condition. Whomever you choose for the work, just make sure that the mechanic shop you choose uses certified technicians”.

“There is another growing service that many owners of cars that are past their factory warranty are using, and these are Extended Vehicle Warranty policies,” he said. “They seem to be right for some drivers, but like everything else, you need to check the small print.”

For 18 years, Julio and Letty Avila have been servicing the automotive needs of local citizens, schools, businesses and the City of La Feria. Avila will tell you that he is the hands-on Certified Master Mechanic who oversees the work in the shop, while his wife specializes in Customer Relations and Bookkeeping. They welcome your business.

Avila’s Auto Repair on Main Street is another family business that is thriving in a growing and bustling La Feria, Texas. For more information, call (956) 797 4009.