Palo Alto Auto Repair

There is a lot of data supporting how important it is to keep your tires inflated to an optimal pressure. Tires that are not properly inflated reduce gas mileage while shortening tread life. By checking tire pressure periodically, you can make sure you get the most wear out of your tires and every dollar that goes into your gas tank. Here are a few helpful hints: Know the ideal tire pressure for your car. Find out what pressure your tires are supposed to be inflated to before starting. The best tire pressure for your car should be indicat ed on the door jamb of the driver’s side door or in the owner’s manual. Check the pressure when the car is “cold.” Cold in this case means the car has been sitting for at least an hour, or has only been driven a few miles. The manufacturer’s suggested pressure is based on this type of reading, before the air inside the tire expands due to heat. Use an accurate tire pressure gauge. Toss out the $2 pencil-l ... read more

There are a few key signs to let you know that you may need a 4 wheel alignment without even getting out of the car. The easiest way to determine if you need a wheel alignment is to relax your grip on the steering wheel while driving straight on smooth pavement and see where the car drives. Does it pull to the left or right or does it continue to go straight? If the vehicle does anything other than drive straight, you should get your wheel alignment specifications checked. Visible uneven tire wear is also an indication that you might need a 4 wheel alignment.
The three measurements that manufactures use to set alignment are: caster, camber, and toe.
Caster refers to the contact patch (where the tire touches the ground) of the tire in relation to the axis of rotation. Positive caster helps re-center the wheels after they have been turned but makes turning efforts higher because

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Tailpipe smoke is something you’re more likely notice coming from other drivers on the road. However, you should take the time to see what kind of emissions your car is putting out every now and then. Some of the smoke you see is normal or harmless. But, it is sometimes a signal that your car needs a serious repair. The following guide of “smoke types” can help you troubleshoot some potential issues with your vehicle. Black Smoke: This can be either harmless or problematic, depending on a few other factors. In all cases though, black smoke is a dirty problem. If the smoke persists as you drive, chances are that your air filter is too dirty and needs to be changed. However, the smoke may also be caused by a clogged fuel injector, or other component. In any case, something about the engine or fuel injection system is too dirty and should be inspected by a mechanic. That said, if the black smoke goes away after the engine has gotten warmed u ... read more

You LOVE your automobile. You did not just choose any car, you chose a European brand that reflects your status, your personality, and makes a statement about you. That is why you should take care and avoid the following ten items that can place your car in the shop. TEN COMMON MISTAKES YOU SHOULD AVOID: Putting off recommended/scheduled maintenance Ignoring the “check engine light” Not changing the oil and oil filter at regular intervals Not keeping your tires properly inflated Neglecting to service your transmission, brakes, and cooling system Continuing to drive after your car has overheated Not having the fuel and air filters changed Taking your car to any shop as opposed to ones that know your vehicle intimately Using generic after market parts over manufacturer parts Attempting to service your own vehicle

Our shop is outfitted with the latest tire mounting, balancing, and alignment, technology from Hunter Engineering. Hunter Engineering is the global leader in alignment systems, wheel and tire service, brake service and inspection lane equipment. Hunter equipment is approved and used by vehicle manufacturers, automobile and truck dealers, tire dealers and service facilities around the world. Check out some informative videos on our Tires and Wheel page

We have partnered up with a new website that helps local schools generate revenue to help support the activities that go on at the schools. Click on the Facebook or Google Plus link and like the page which will help us to promote this new site and a great cause! http://www.uptous.com/uptous.htm?_flowId=directory-flow&businessPath=PaloAltoShell

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With more than 40 years in Palo Alto, Palo Alto Shell is committed to service, value and integrity at discount prices. For more information about our services call us or email us

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Palo Alto Shell Auto Repair Wheel Alignment Machine Palo Alto Shell has finished the install of our new state of the art Hunter alignment machine and rack! the top of the line in wheel alignment equipment. It will allow us to shave off hours of time compared other systems. Come on by and check it out and see if you need an alignment. Now through December 31, 2011 we are offering a Special Offer of $65.95. System Benefits Include: No damaging metal to metal contact with your wheels and virtually no limit to the tire size. Steering angle sensors reset to insure safety if applicable. Not valid with any other offer. By Appointment only, please call, email or drop by. Please mention this ad at the time of service. All simple toe, camber, and caster suspension adjustments included in this price, shims, drilling, replacing or removing of parts to adjust suspension specifications will be additionally charged upon ... read more