Transport to West Coast Holiday 2013 - Santa Fe New Mexico

The Porsche 356 Registry West Coast Holiday is coming up next year from Wednesday, October 9th, 2013 through Sunday, October 13th, 2013 but it's not too early to plan your trip ahead.
For those of you who are not comfortable driving the whole distance from San Diego to Santa Fe we are offering a transportation service for up to ten cars. That way you can fly into Santa Fe  and just enjoy the driving tours, mountain drives and everything that Santa Fe has to offer. 

Contact us and register as soon as possible to reserve your spot for the transport. Call us at the shop (858) 586-7771 or Wayne's  Cell directly (619) 743-1356 or email us to waynebaker@earthlink.net. Thank you and looking forward to spending the West Coast Holidays with you! 

Volvo Winter Maintenance Tips

If you are planning to take a trip up to the mountains this holiday season; Personalized Autohaus is offering all drivers some winter driving and car maintenance tips from experience.

Driving on snow and ice puts both the driver's abilities and the car's systems to the test. Volvo tests its cars to operate at in a typical Scandinavian winter designing cars to cope with a cold environment.

Checklist for winter Maintenance:

1. New winter tires and rims
2. New rear disk breaks and pads
3. New oil with oil and air filters change
4. New timing belt and two safety pulleys
5. Collector gasket changed
6. Rear bumper aerodynamics recalculated
7. Spark-plug cables replace

Looking after the car

Your car needs to be in the best condition possible to cope with the extra strain of starting and working smoothly in extra cold conditions.

1. Make sure the engine has quality coolant that can cope with up to -31 ºF degrees without freezing.

2. Try to keep the fuel tank as full as possible to prevent condensation in the tank and provide the maximum range and running time for the engine if stuck in snow.

3. Engine oil with lower viscosity (ie. thinner) makes cold starting easier and reduces fuel consumption. For winter use 5W/30 oil is recommended, particularly synthetic types.

4. Check the state of the battery more frequently as the heater fan and all the electrical items being used put a greater strain on the battery - and a poorly charged battery can freeze and become useless.

5. To prevent the windscreen washer fluid, hoses and nozzles from freezing, and to avoid damage to the washer pump, add washer solvents with plenty of anti-freeze.

6. Avoid using de-icing sprays on door locks as they can impair the locking mechanism. Volvo recommends a Teflon lock spray instead, available from Volvo dealers.

Looking after the driver
The driver needs to be alert and prepared to take extra care, especially when braking.

1. Don't always follow previous tracks in the snow as this compacted snow is likely to be more slippery. The fresh snow between the tracks will offer more resistance and stopping power.

2. Always brake gently and allow extra stopping distance on icy roads, and if the car skids, steer into the skid, not the other way. Snow by the side of the road may provide extra stopping power - and is always preferable to hitting oncoming traffic.

3. Air conditioning is not just for summer but equally important in winter as a dehumidifier to keep windows clear of condensation and give the driver better visibility.

4. The air quality inside the car is another important safety factor. Cold temperatures have a negative effect on combustion, so the surrounding air is likely to contain more impurities in winter, so keep the air conditioning on to help purify the air.

5. Volvo advises against the temptation of turning the car's heating up too high when driving in winter. Volvo's research shows that too high an interior temperature jeopardizes the driver's reaction times and increases the amount of errors. A constant, comfortable temperature inside the car is an important safety factor. It is unhealthy and disorientating to have an extreme difference in inside and outside temperature.

6. Don't forget automatic transmissions usually have a Winter setting to aid traction by starting in a higher gear than normal when pulling away in slippery conditions.

Bring in your Volvo to Personalized Autohaus for a Maintenance check before the holiday season to get your vehicle ready for an upcoming trip. Talk to our Certified Volvo Master Technician Eric Benner to evaluate your vehicle of its needs. Call us to make a service appointment today and get 15% Labor Discount (858) 586-7771.   

Volvo Required Maintenance by Personalized Autohaus

ROUTINE CHECKS, INSPECTIONS AND SERVICES OFFERED AND RECOMMENDED FOR VOLVOS BY PERSONALIZED AUTOHAUS

Every 7,500 Miles

Check onboard diagnostic system Engine oil and filter replacement Reset Service Reminder Indicator (SRI) Check/adjust engine coolant, power steering and washer fluid levels Check all wiper blades Check brake fluid level Check brake pads Check tire pressure, wear and condition Rotate tires

Every 15,000 Miles

Check onboard diagnostic system Engine oil and filter replacement Reset Service Reminder Indicator (SRI) Check/adjust engine coolant, power steering and washer fluid levels Check battery fluid level, charge and mounting Check exterior lighting and controls Replace cabin air filter Lubricate hinges, latches and sliding parts on doors, hood, trunk and sunroof Check/adjust parking brake Check all wiper blades Check brake fluid level Check brake pads Check tire pressure, wear and condition

Every 22,500 Miles

Check onboard diagnostic system Engine oil and filter replacement Reset Service Reminder Indicator (SRI) Check/adjust engine coolant, power steering and washer fluid levels Check all wiper blades Check brake fluid level Check brake pads Check tire pressure, wear and condition Rotate tires

Every 30,000 Miles

Check onboard diagnostic system Engine oil and filter replacement Reset Service Reminder Indicator (SRI) Check/adjust engine coolant, power steering and washer fluid levels Check battery fluid level, charge and mounting Check exterior lighting and controls Replace cabin air filter Lubricate hinges, latches and sliding parts on doors, hood, trunk and sunroof Check/adjust parking brake Check all wiper blades Check brake fluid level Check brake pads Check tire pressure, wear and condition Check spare tire pressure

Every 37,500 Miles

Brake Fluid Change - Recommended if driven in mountainous or humid climates, every one year at owner's request - Old possibly contaminated (with water) fluid could lead to braking problems - Bleed system, fill with new brake fluid and pressure. Air Filter Cartridge May be necessary to change more frequently when driving in dusty/dirty areas. New filter cartridge helps maintain proper engine operation characteristics. Reduces engine wear by properly filtering harmful dirt and contaminants before air enters the engine Maximizes fuel economy

Every 60,000/ 75,000Miles

Replace Spark Plugs - New spark plugs are specially designed and calibrated to provide optimum engine operation. - Engine is tested on special Volvo equipment after spark plug installation.

Every 105,000 Miles

Replace Auxiliary Drive Belt  Helps avoid belt failure while driving

Every 120,000 Miles

PCV: Inspect Clean Nipple And Hoses (Turbo models only except S40/V50) - Service interval after first service for all turbo models is every 45,000 miles - Maintains proper emission control Replace Fuel Filter Maintains clean fuel system and helps maintain engine operating efficiency Avoids potential expense of replacement of fuel system components Timing Belt, Tensioner And Idler Pulley: Replace All 5-cylinder models. Maximum replacement time interval for all engines  Helps avoid belt failure while driving

For service intervals beyond 120,000 miles, consult our shop and ask Eric Benner our Certified Volvo Master Technician, who is on site and able to carry out successful repairs Dealership quality but without the dealership prices. We take pride in our quality service, repairs and are your dealership alternative.

Other Services Offered

• Engine Repair
• Air Conditioning
• Electrical Diagnostic and Repair
• Complete Exhaust Repair
• Emissions Failures Repair
• Brakes & Shocks/Struts
• Suspension Front/Rear
• Coolant System Flush (every 2-3 years)
• Pre-Purchase Evaluation/Health Check
• Health Check With Scanner Test

Some repairs cannot be priced out over the phone without seeing the vehicle first but we will always try our best to answer your questions.Call us for an appointment at (858) 586-7771 and visit our website www.personalizedautohaus.com

356 Club event reminder: Palms to Pines this weekend!!

Upcoming events:

November 16^th-18^th, 2012 that's this weekend - and it's not too late to join in

The 22^nd annual Palms to Pines weekend is upon us. Join us for this great annual event. From the desert floor of Palm Springs to the mountains above for a great lunch and a classic 356 drive! The 356 Club will host a welcome party on Friday night at the Riviera Hotel (New host hotel) in Mike and Jayne Goldberg's room. Please be sure to stop by and start your Palm Springs weekend right! There are still rooms available at the special 356 Club rate of $119/night. Here's the link to sign up: https://events.r20.constantcontact.com/register/eventReg?oeidk=a07e6ay674w8a8a6000&oseq=

Note: the event's correct dates are 16th through 18th and NOT 11th through16th as previously printed in Porsche 356 Registry magazine.

Volvo Specialists Make Volvo Cars More Valuable

When it comes to safety in automobiles, the name Volvo is top in mind. In more than the 50 years of its existence, Volvo cars if anything else has led the way in new advancements in safety technology. They were the first to have seat belts, anti locking brakes, and air bags- from the driver, passenger and side air bags as well. Even in their engineering, the Volvo frames were designed to cushion most automobile impacts, hence the boxed up look. In fact, they owned up to their design-which drew criticisms from car critics as being boring. Hence the famous campaign slogan of Volvo: "Volvo- We're boxy but we're safe!"

Volvo has its loyal following of customers and is gaining ground especially with the SUV market as couples with new families tend to purchase Volvo automobiles based on their safety record. These cars are not expensive for its value but it has a premium price because of the engineering and design they put into every car. If I am not mistaken, Volvo was also the first automobile to have a black box that monitors the various systems of the car and has early warning signs if things need to be checked up on.
Because of such technology, servicing your Volvo should be done by a certified Volvo Specialists. Contact Personalized Autohaus in San Diego that can service your car if you happen to be in the area and need some repair work. You can trust Eric Benner, our Volvo Certified Master Technician at the shop.

Here is Sheldon Finn one of out trusted loyal Volvo customer’s testimonial:
“I had my Volvo service after noticing an oil check signal on the dash board. Having it serviced was very easy as I brought it into the Volvo specialist at Personalized Autohaus; he immediately hooked up his personal computer to the black box to check if the signals were correct. While doing this, he did some sample checks to my oil using a dipstick. When the blackbox diagnostic was finished, he told me that there were no differences in the blackbox and upon seeing the dipstick; he said that I was low in oil. Right there and then I had them do an oil change to the car. It didn't take too long, maybe an hour and a half including the time spent for doing the diagnostics. The bill I paid for was reasonable and I got on my way.”
That's the good thing with Volvo, as you get very good quality service with their specialists. It's a good investment to have, this Volvo car.

Personalized Autohaus is your best alternative to the dealership!! 
We have the expertise, the experience, the equipment and we use the right parts for your Volvo. We provide you with the same level of quality as the Volvo Dealerships can provide. However, we are a more personal, more convenient, more friendly and more affordable alternative. Call (858) 586-7771 to make an appointment!  We offer 15% Labor Discount for first time customers and Free oil filter and multipoint inspection with oil change.
www.personalizedautohaus.com

356 Breakfast Club in San Diego

SAVE THE DATE! Nov 10th! 2nd Saturday of the month at Studio Diner (4701 Ruffin Rd, San Diego, CA 92123)
 

Breakfast Clubs, Cars & Coffee, etc.
...These are very popular and casual way to spend some time with the club with a minimal commitment of time and energy. Stay for an hour or stay for three, have breakfast or just a cup of coffee. Kick some tires and tell lies about your racing prowess. Show off your car, impress your buddies or just hang out.

Wayne Baker will represent Personalized Autohaus. See you there! 

Volvo Car Problems - when your Volvo needs repair service

Volvos are known for their safety, reliability and longevity. With routine maintenance and repair, Volvos can top the 250,000 mile-mark easily. Despite longevity and a five-star safety rating by Consumer Reports, Volvos are not without their quirks.That is why it's a good idea to service your Volvo by a reputable Volvo repair shop and by a Certified Volvo Master Technician. Keep an eye out for the following car problems and contact your trusted repair shop like Personalized Autohaus right away: 

Air Conditioning 

Various air conditioning problems plague many Volvo models. In addition to non-functioning issues, there have been numerous complaints of malfunctioning cabin temperature sensors, where the air conditioner kicks on in cold weather. Owners have also had issues with air conditioner kicking on after the vehicle is off and at rest, draining the battery. Design flaws and assembly, electrical draw and pressurization have all been named as culprits of these problems.

Light Bulbs

Anyone who has ever owned a Volvo knows that headlight and brake light bulbs burn out frequently. Sometimes a tap on the lens will get them going again, but usually it's a trip to your trusted shop to replace for original factory parts. You can sometimes alleviate connection issues by applying petroleum jelly to the end of the bulb. 

Dashboard Indicator Lights 

There have been many consumer complaints regarding malfunctioning indicator lights. Most Volvos have a full dash of bells and whistles warning owners of everything from a door ajar to a dead light bulb, to low coolant or malfunctioning brakes. The "check engine" and "so engage without an actual problem with the system. Since there is no way of knowing if the indicator lights are working properly or not, this is best to be checked out by your trusted mechanic.

Engine

Any serious problems like car not starting, or not running right or engine noise needs immediate attention of your trusted Volvo Certified Master Technician!

Personalized Autohaus is your best alternative to the dealership!! 
We have the expertise, the experience, the equipment and we use the right parts for your Volvo. We provide you with the same level of quality as the Volvo Dealerships can provide. However, we are a more personal, more convenient, more friendly and more affordable alternative. Call (858) 586-7771 to make an appointment!  We offer 15% Labor Discount for first time customers and Free oil filter and multipoint inspection with oil change.
www.personalizedautohaus.com

Used Volvo - for drivers on a budget!

With core values of safety, environment, quality, and environment  a used Volvo might be the best solution of transportation needs for drivers on a budget.

 Eric Benner Certified Volvo Master Technician always using authentic Volvo diagnostic tools, and Genuine factory parts

Used Volvo cars come equipped with all of the strength and savvy of new Volvo vehicles, offering powerful choices from the 1990s and early 2000s. Drivers who want the safety, environmental concern, and quality of a Volvo can opt to purchase one of these used vehicles.

Of course, purchasing a used Volvo isn't as easy as signing a piece of paper. Whether you're getting a loan or paying cash, you're probably worried that what you'll end up with is a big lemon. By getting the used Volvo checked out by an independent you'll be able to avoid getting an unwanted vehicle which is mechanically  not sound .

 Before choosing which model of used Volvo you want, you should look into the different models to see which have the best reputations. You want to make sure to stay away from any models that might have a lot of complaints to the manufacturer, or a lot of recalls.

You should also make sure that the particular car you are looking at is in good condition. You should ask to see the maintenance records to make sure it was properly cared for, and make sure it will pass any required safety and emissions tests.

While the new Volvos of tomorrow might seem more attractive than the Volvos of yesterday, used Volvos are a sturdy and inexpensive answer for those who want a smooth ride for a small cost.

Trust Personalized Autohaus with  your pre-purchase inspection PPI. Call (858) 568-7771 and talk to Eric Benner our Certified Volvo Master Technician to get advice and consultation over the phone.
Personalized Autohaus is your best alternative to the dealership!! 
We have the expertise, the experience, the equipment and we use the right parts for your Volvo. We provide you with the same level of quality as the Volvo Dealerships can provide. However, we are a more personal, more convenient, more friendly and more affordable alternative.  We offer 15% Labor Discount for first time customers and Free oil filter and multipoint inspection  with oil change.
www.personalizedautohaus.com