Auto Air Filter Replacement Redwood City - The Important Function of Car Air Filters - Bosch European Redwood City

 

Studies conducted over the past two decades demonstrate that the exposure of the passengers inside a car to the dangerous air pollutants including respiratory irritants, neurological agents, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), carbon monoxide and carcinogens is significantly higher than that of bicyclists, pedestrians and public transfer riders.

Increased exposure to these pollutants can produce serious health problems. Benzene is a known carcinogen and VOCs are  also likely cancer agents. Almost all the pollutants can irritate the eyes, nose, and respiratory systems of people exposed to them.

They also may hinder the development of fetuses and infants. Studies indicate that the elevated levels of auto exhausts can also suppress the immune system, making human beings more vulnerable to colds, influenza, and other respiratory conditions like asthma. Car air filters purify the air inside a car, allowing the passengers to have healthy and clean air to breathe.

Car air filters come in two main types: the panel style, as used on most fuel-injected cars, and the radial style, which are usually used on carbureted vehicles. A car air filter is enclosed in a black plastic casing near the center-top of the engine.

The air filter traps dirt particles, which can cause damage to engine cylinders, walls, pistons and piston rings. Changing car's filters on a regular basis can have a significant impact on engine life and performance. A good rule of thumb is to change filters once or twice a year, or roughly once every 15,000 miles. Replacing a clogged air filter has two-fold impact on the engine: a fuel economy benefit: up to 10%, which makes for equivalent gasoline savings up to 15¢ per gallon.
Dirty and dusty driving conditions will require more frequent filter replacements. It is important to avoid using the wrong size filter in a car.

Nowadays, car owners are using ‘Nanotechnology’ based filters to improve cabin air quality. Such filters contain charcoal layers, which remove odors. These filters allow ‘mechanical filtration’ , in which the fiber material of the filter with pores of a specific size will trap particles larger than the size of the pores. Almost 80% of the cars sold in U.S. include a built-in nanotechnology-based filter.

by Marcus Peterson
http://www.streetdirectory.com/travel_guide/204770/home_appliances/the_important_function_of_car_air_filters.html

http://www.boscheuropean.com

Timing Belt Replacement Redwood City - Why Timing Belt Replacement is so Important - Bosch European Redwood City

So your car has about between 30K and 60K on it and your owner's manual list timing belt replacement as part of the scheduled maintenance. You take your car into the shop and ask them about this timing belt thing and they tell you that it will cost several hundred more than your maintenance usually cost. You look at the service guy like he is trying to rip you off, because you think in the back of your head how could a belt cost so much. Well I am here to explain why and how critical this belt is.

The timing belt is a rubber/nylon belt that connects the crankshaft to the camshaft(s).This belt often times also turns water pumps, auxiliary shafts etc. There are also several other important parts that work in conjunction with the timing belt such as timing belt idlers, tensioners and oil seals. As the timing belt is exposed to heat and various substances such as road grime and oil along with the strain of everyday driving it starts to stretch. After the belt starts this stretching process it gets loose and begins to wear on the teeth of the belt, it can also effect camshaft position which in turn effects timing and can also have an effect on fuel mileage and engine performance (This belt tension should be checked in between timing belt replacements).

Most engines today have very complex internal workings and very close tolerances, especially import vehicles and are known as interference engines. Which means if the belt breaks that the valves will make contact with the pistons. This is where the big money comes in because when these parts collide it does severe internal damage like bending valves, folding over ring landings on the pistons etc.

Now the reason timing belt jobs are costly if done right is because it takes several hours and several hundred dollars’ worth of parts. You don’t just put another belt on and off you go because you have those other parts I mentioned earlier with the same wear as the belt and believe me most of the time these parts dont last until its time to do the belt again. I dont know how many engines I've seen destroyed due to a water pump failure and stripping the teeth off the timing belt or oil seals that were not replaced saturating a new belt with the same results.. And many people tell there mechanic to just put the belt on and not the associated parts because money is tight. And then in a few weeks having their car towed in because it just quit running and they can't understand why since they just had all the maintenance done, but they failed to have the water pump replaced with the belt and it locked up and wiped the belt out which in turn wiped their engine

by mcourson
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source: http://wrytestuff.com/swa13581.htm

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http://www.boscheuropean.com

Audi Service and Repair Redwood City - Audi Scheduled Maintenance - Bosch European Redwood City

All scheduled service is necessary to maintain your vehicle in optimal operating condition and to avoid damage to your vehicle not covered by the warranty. We strongly recommend you take your Audi to our shop for all service work.

1.8T - A4 & TT - In 1000 Miles 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45 50 55 60 65 70 75 80 85 90 95 100 V6 & V8 - In 1000 Miles 8 16 24 32 40 48 56 64 72 80 88 96 104 112 120 128 136 144 152 160 Engine Oil - change X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X Engine Filter - replace X X   X   X   X   X   X   X   X   X   X Fluid Levels - check X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X Auto-Shift Lock - check X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X Manual Trans - check shift and clutch interlock X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X Wheels - rotate* X                                       Service Reminder - reset X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X Battery - check level   X   X   X   X   X   X   X   X   X   X Dust/Pollen Filter - replace   X   X   X   X   X   X   X   X   X   X Cooling System - check level   X   X   X   X   X   X   X   X   X   X W/W System - check, add fluid   X   X   X   X   X   X   X   X   X   X Sliding Roof - clean, lubricate rails   X   X   X   X   X   X   X   X   X   X Transmission - check for leaks   X   X   X   X   X   X   X   X   X   X Trans Final Drive(s) - check lubricant   X   X   X   X   X   X   X   X   X   X Brake System - check   X   X   X   X   X   X   X   X   X   X Drive Shafts - check boots   X   X   X   X   X   X   X   X   X   X Wheels/Tires/Spare - check condition, pressure   X   X   X   X   X   X   X   X   X   X OBD - check DTC memory   X   X   X   X   X   X   X   X   X   X Exterior Lights - check, adjust   X   X   X   X   X   X   X   X   X   X Door Hinge Mechanism - lubricate   X   X   X   X   X   X   X   X   X   X During Road Test   X   X   X   X   X   X   X   X   X   X After Road Test   X   X   X   X   X   X   X   X   X   X Air Cleaner - replace       X       X       X       X       X Front End - check dust seals, ball joints, tie rod ends       X       X       X       X       X Brake Fluid - replace**       X       X       X       X       X Haldex Clutch - change oil***       X       X       X       X       X 1.8T - In 1000 Miles 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45 50 55 60 65 70 75 80 85 90 95 100 Spark Plugs-replace           X           X           X     V-Belt-replace                               X         Ribbed Belt-replace                               X         Timing Belt-replace****                                         V6, V8 - In 1000 Miles 8 16 24 32 40 48 56 64 72 80 88 96 104 112 120 128 136 144 152 160 Spark Plugs-replace       X       X       X       X       X Ribbed Belt-replace                 X                 X     Timing Belt-replace                         X               Timing Belt Tensioner Roller-replace ^                         X               *First service only **Replace every 2 years, regardless of mileage ***TT quattro only ****105,000 miles ^A4, A6 only source: http://www.cartechniks.com/Maintenance/AudiInterval.aspx http://www.boscheuropean.com

Mercedes Service and Repair Redwood City - 2014 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet spotted testing - Bosch European Redwood City

The Mercedes-Benz E-Class lineup is poised to receive a facelift soon, and while we've already seen what the new sedan will look like courtesy of an undisguised look at the E63 AMG, we're now getting our first look at the updated E-Class Cabriolet. Given that 2013 models are already available, we expect the redesigned E-Class to be out for the 2014 model year.

All E-Class models will be getting a new face with smoother lines including reshaped headlights, a less angular front fascia and a more upright, single-bar grille, but it looks like the Coupe and Cabriolet will be getting fewer updates to the rear of the car. While the sedan will get smoother rear doors and quarter panels to eliminate that flared wheel arches, this cue is still apparent on the convertible (as well as the coupe andstation wagon). From what we can tell of the car's rear end, new taillights and a new fascia will help freshen up this Mercedes-Benz mainstay.

source: Autoblog
by Jeffrey N. Ross
Image Credit: CarPix

Range Rover Service Redwood City - Next-generation Range Rover Sport to get seven-seat option - Bosch European Redwood City

One of the vehicles that will expand the Land Rover lineup over the next seven years is a seven-seat Range Rover Sport. The LR4/Discovery is currently the only Land Rover to offer a seven-seat package, even though it's not exactly roomy in the third tier. The present Range Rover Sport sits on the same platform as the LR4, but being two inches shorter overall and having a wheelbase 5.6 inches shorter, it provides only just enough room for second-row passengers.

Based on a report in Auto Express, that will change upon the introduction of the 2014 Range Rover Sport that uses the same platform as the recently introduced 2014 Range Rover. The new big brother is eight inches longer overall and has a wheelbase seven inches longer than the current Range Rover Sport. That will provide the coming Sport, obviously longer than it is now yet certain to be shorter in length and wheelbase than the Range Rover, a fair dose of room to play with to accommodate another two occupants.

Even so, it won't be the Taj Mahal back there. Reports have declared the coming SUV to be lower than it is now and have a more pronounced slope to the backlight, the Auto Express article adding that it will have a sloping roof reminiscent of the Evoque. In spite of the increased dimensions and people-hauling capacity, a focus on sporting performance, along with the aluminum platform and an aluminum body, should help keep things properly motivating.

News Source: Auto Express
autoblog by Jonathon Ramsey

Image Credit: CarPix

 

http://www.boscheuropean.com

Range Rover Service and Repair Redwood City - 1987 - 1999 Recommended Maintenance Service Schedule - Bosch European Redwood City

1987 to 1999 model year US market vehicles 

What should be done, and when: Note that this list of service differs in some respects from the manufacturer service schedule. It is intended for users who operate their trucks mostly on road, on highway. Drivers who run extensively off road or in water may have different needs. Drivers with modified trucks may also have different needs. This list is intended to serve as a guide only.

3,250 miles
Change oil and filter if you’re using regular oil. Less often and you’ll be building up sludge in the motor. Use a 5,000 mile interval if you're using Mobil1 or comparable synthetic.
7,500 mile intervals between big service
Change oil & filter. Check and top all other fluids Rotate tires Check for damage under car Grease drive shaft u-joints Lube body hinges and door latches
Also every 52,500 miles when “Service Engine” comes on
Reset service reminder using Land Rover test system Check emission system and service as necessary - check function of O2 sensors, check operation of purge system and gas cap. Clean crankcase breather, replace hoses if collapsed, and clean throttle body.
30,000 miles or 3 years
Change engine oil & filter.              Drain and refill transmission fluid Change front and rear axle oils Check swivel housings (N/A to P38 Rovers) Change transfer case oil Change brake fluid by pumping fresh fluid through the system Change coolant if more than 3 years old Check and top all other fluids Oil all door and body hinges Grease drive shaft joints Test battery and replace if faulty Replace spark plugs Replace air filter Check brakes Adjust parking brake	Check exhaust and under car components for damage Replace wipers if torn or streaking. Check function of all lights Check a/c and heat Check all accessories Check washer jets, clean and adjust if needed Rotate tires Check for stored fault conditions              Road test and note other problems Replace cabin filters if needed (P38 Rovers) Check steering linkage joints. Joints should all be good and tight.
45,000 miles
Change engine oil & filter.              Check transmission fluid Check front and rear axle oils Check swivel housings Check transfer case oil Check and top all other fluids Oil all door and body hinges Grease drive shaft joints Replace spark plugs Clean air filter Check steering linkage joints. Joints should all be good and tight	Check brakes Check exhaust and under-car components for damage Replace wipers if bad Check lights Check a/c and heat Check all accessories Check washer jets, clean and adjust if needed Rotate tires Road test and note other problems
60,000 miles
Change engine oil & filter.              Change transmission fluid and filter Change front and rear axle oils Check swivel housings Change coolant if more three years old Replace plastic fill plug on radiator if fitted Change transfer case oil Change brake fluid by pumping fresh fluid through the system Check and top all other fluids Oil all door and body hinges Grease drive shaft joints Test battery and replace if faulty Replace spark plugs Replace air filter Replace fuel filter Clean throttle body	Clean differential vent pipes Check steering linkage joints. On all but P38 Range Rover replace pitman arm joint unless it’s already been changed Check brakes Adjust parking brake Check exhaust and under car components for damage Replace wipers if bad Check lights Check a/c and heat Check all accessories Check washer jets, clean and adjust if needed Rotate tires Check for stored fault conditions Check operation of O2 sensors and emission system if not done at 52,500 Road test and note other problems
75,000 miles
Change engine oil & filter. Check transmission fluid Check front and rear axle oils Check and top all other fluids Check swivel housings Check transfer case oil Oil all door and body hinges Grease drive shaft joints Replace spark plugs Clean air filter Check steering linkage joints. Joints should all be good and tight.	Check brakes Check exhaust and under car components for damage Replace wipers if bad Check lights Check a/c and heat Check all accessories Check washer jets, clean and adjust if needed Rotate tires Road test and note other problems
90,000 miles
Change engine oil & filter. Change transmission fluid and filter Change front and rear axle oils Check swivel housings Change coolant if more three years old and not done at 60k Change transfer case oil Change brake fluid by pumping fresh fluid through the system Check and top all other fluids Oil all door and body hinges Test battery and replace if faulty Grease drive shaft joints Repack wheel bearings unless they have been previously serviced Replace spark plugs Replace air filter	Check steering linkage joints. On Disco 1 and Classic-replace any that are still original. Check brakes Adjust parking brake Check exhaust and under car components for damage Replace wipers if bad Check lights Check a/c and heat Check all accessories Check washer jets, clean and adjust if needed Rotate tires Check for stored fault conditions Check operation of O2 sensors, replace if bad Road test and note other problems
105,000 miles
Change engine oil & filter.              Check transmission fluid. Check steering linkage joints. Joints should all be good and tight. Check brakes Check exhaust and under car components for damage Replace wipers if bad Check lights Check a/c and heat Check all accessories Check washer jets, clean and adjust if needed Rotate tires Road test and note other problems Check front and rear axle oils Check and top all other fluids	Check swivel housings Check transfer case oil Oil all door and body hinges Grease drive shaft joints Replace spark plugs Clean air filter Check steering linkage joints. Joints should all be good and tight. Check brakes Check exhaust and under car components for damage Replace wipers if bad Check lights Check a/c and heat Check all accessories Check washer jets, clean and adjust if needed Rotate tires Road test and note other problems
120,000 miles
Change engine oil & filter.              Change transmission fluid and filter Change front and rear axle oils Check swivel housings Change coolant if more three years old and not done at 60k Replace plastic fill plug on radiator if fitted Change transfer case oil Change brake fluid by pumping fresh fluid through the system Check and top all other fluids Test battery and replace if faulty Oil all door and body hinges Grease drive shaft joints Replace spark plugs Replace air filter Replace fuel filter	Check steering linkage joints. On Discovery and Classic—replace any that show any play. Check brakes Adjust parking brake Check exhaust and under car components for damage Replace wipers if bad Check lights Check a/c and heat Check all accessories Check washer jets, clean and adjust if needed Rotate tires Check for stored fault conditions            Replace O2 sensors unless they’ve already been changed Road test and note other problems

BMW Service Redwood City - BMW 4 Series Coupe spotted sans swirlies - Bosch European Redwood City

The spy shots you see above are not of a BMW 3 Series Coupe. Of course, that's just because the German automaker has apparently decided that coupes and convertibles deserve their own numerical distinction, one step higher than their sedan siblings.

While we've seen the upcoming BMW 4 Series in both convertible and coupe shapes before, this is the first time the car has been spotted by our European spy shooters without BMW's trademark swirly camouflage – all the better to spot details like the sloping fastback roofline and fender vents. Sadly, the fascia is masked, but we'd expect to see some stylized kidney grilles and stretched headlamps beneath.

We're told that this is not an M model but rather a 435i or 440i fitted with BMW's Sport Line body kit along with 19-inch M Sport wheels. A higher-performance M4 version is also in the offing. Take in all the details in the image gallery above, paying special attention to the horrible Sport badges that we pray don't make it into production. Expect to see the 2014 4 Series Coupe make its official debut at the 2013 Detroit Auto Show.

source: http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/13/bmw-4-series-coupe-spotted-sans-swirlies/
by Jeremy Korzeniewski

Image Credit: CarPix