Automotive News & Information - Elrod Automotive

A light on the dash that doesn't say - washer fluid is low immediately panics you right? It can happen when you don't keep up with standard maintenance and with older vehicles you see it due to the age of the vehicle, however here at Elrod Automotive in Lake Wales we like to keep you driving happy and listening to your favorite songs or talking to friends and family worry-free! Here are some quick tips and hard lines in the sand that you do not need to ignore.

FIRST TIP: Do not ignore a warning light. However, first line of defense is to stop the vehicle as soon as it is safe and then turn the engine off - wait a few minutes then turn it back on. If the light is still there - get your manual out to see what the light means (or Google it).

We are pleased to announce that our shop is able to provide re manufactured engines for the Toyota 1GR-FE gas engine line through our JASPER Engine partnership! This 4.0L, Dual OHC, Single VVT, V6 engine, is available for the following Toyota applications: 2003-2015 (4Runner | Tacoma | FJ Cruiser | Tundra).

There seems to be a common misconception among many that if you have an aftermarket/extended warranty, that your car, truck, SUV, or Jeep must be taken to a dealership. This is not true. Non-dealership / Independent Automotive repair shops can service and repair your new or UNDER WARRANTY/EXTENDED WARRANTY. As a positive, at our shop, you can get fast service and work with highly trained technicians! We'd love to take care of your vehicle for you and can do so right here at our automotive shop. Repairs by highly rated and trained automotive technicians with dealer rated diagnostic tools, at BETTER PRICING by a shop that knows you!

It is a law that independent automotive repair shops can maintain and service your warranty. All consumers are protected by the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, which is enforced by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). It prohibits a manufacturer from voiding the new vehicle's warranty or a vehicle's extended warranty because service was performed by a Non-Dealer/Independent Repair shop.

Per the FTC, “It's illegal for a dealer to deny your warranty coverage simply because you had warranty work or routine maintenance or repairs performed by our automotive shop. Routine maintenance can include anything from oil changes, tire rotations and belt replacement, to fluid checks, flushes, new brake pads, and inspections.” It is also important to note that the “Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act makes it illegal for a company to void your warranty or deny coverage under the warranty for the simple cause that you used an aftermarket or recycled part.”

One of the major perks of bringing your vehicle to an independent repair shop is the ability to make your money go further. Many times, warranties will have a limit or a deductible. Our goal is to make your warranty work for you.

Lastly, If you are on the fence about whether or not to purchase an AFTERMARKET or EXTENDED warranty. We suggest opening a savings account for your car and putting back money for possible breakdowns. While warranties are great the limitations can sometimes outweigh the benefits.

Whichever option you may choose we will be there for you every step of the way! We look forward to taking care of your new or under extended/aftermarket warranty, car, truck, SUV, or Jeep right here. Give us a call today!

There seems to be a common misconception among many that if you have an aftermarket/extended warranty, that your car, truck, SUV or Jeep must be taken to a dealership. This is not true. Non-dealership / Independent Automotive repair shops can service and repair your new or UNDER WARRANTY/EXTENDED WARRANTY. As a positive, at our shop you can get fast service and work with highly trained technicians! We'd love to take care of your vehicle for you and can do so right here at our automotive shop. Repairs by highly rated and trained automotive technicians with dealer rated diagnostic tools, at BETTER PRICING by a shop that knows you!

It’s not always easy to recognize when your vehicle is suffering from a simple problem that requires a little maintenance and TLC or there is real engine damage as symptoms can be overlooked and seen as “normal.” While not all sounds and smells may threaten the life of your car or truck engine, there are some obvious warning signs that require a vehicle inspection here at the shop right away.

They are the best!! They are prompt, easy to work with, honest, comparable prices, and service with a smile!! Like Publix, they make car repairs... a pleasure!! - Deborah A.

By far the BEST automotive shop around! The owners are amazing, employees are very nice & very professional. They make it a priority to see that when you leave, you are happy & satisfied with their service! I refuse to have my truck serviced anywhere but Elrod Automotive. - Tracie A.

If you want an honest mechanic at a fair price, this is the place. They won't try to sell you snake oil or anything your car doesn't need. It's a small shop so you get personal service. I wouldn't go anywhere else. - Fred A.