ABS Warning Sign.

ABS stands for antilock braking system. If the ABS warning light is illuminated on your car’s cluster of gauges that means the antilock system has been deactivated because of a malfunction. 

While your car’s regular brakes could be working fine, the antilock feature that prevents wheels from locking up during braking will not work.

Here is what may be happening to your ABS system –

1. There is simply a blown fuse in the system.
2. A wheel-speed sensor has been damaged.
3. There is a broken wire.
4. The ABS controller has, for whatever reason, stopped working.

Don’t waste time waiting for it to heal! Make an appointment with ABS brake experts A.J.’s Import Garage. They are the guardians of your car’s health in Topeka regardless if it is foreign or domestic. At the first sign of a light on your dashboard call A.J.’s Import Garage located at 501 S.W. Harrison in Topeka. Just call (785) 233-1000.

Going Electric.

Over 200,000 plug-in electric cars have been registered in Germany since 2010.  German automakers including BMW, Diamler, and Volkswagen will spend about $45 billion on electric vehicle technology over the next three years, according to a new report from VDA, which is a German auto-industry trade group.

EV batteries are a challenging roadblock for automakers.  They’re costly to produce.  That makes EVs more expensive for consumers than traditional cars, and depressing sales as a result. EV batteries typically require cobalt, which is notoriously challenging, costly, and controversial to extract.

All of this leads us back to the one place you should think of when having a German car maintained and repaired.  That is A.J.’s Import Garage serving the entire Topeka and Northeast Kansas area’s foreign car repair needs.  A.J.’s is located at 501 S.W. Harrison in the Capitol city.  For an appointment call (785) 233-1000.

The Amazing Porsche.

Please don’t call it a “Porsch”, it makes us cringe!  Just kidding (not really).  Your Porsche is your baby and you want to “baby it” when it comes to regular maintenance.  This entails things that the average car does not.  We surely don’t need to remind you that keeping up with your Porsche’s routine maintenance is tantamount to its longevity.

Whether it’s an oil change, tire rotation, or engine maintenance, it is vital toward keeping your vehicle performing at the highest level you expect from the Porsche name.  We think it’s imperative for owners to know of the service intervals recommended for their specific Porsche model.  By following those, you will get many years of high performance.

A.J.’s Import Garage takes great pride in servicing Porsches, BMWs, Mercedes, Audis, Volkswagens, etc.  Naturally we will take the utmost care in servicing your vehicle whatever make and model it may be.  A.J.’s Import Garage is located at 501 S.W. Harrison in Topeka.  Please call ahead for an appointment at (784) 233-1000.

The Christmas Truce.

Amazing things happen this time of year.  One of the most remarkable events occurred in 1914.  Europe was in the grips of what would become WW1 when suddenly, on Christmas Day, a cease fire occurred so that both sides could celebrate the holiday in their own way.  It was an historic day of peace on earth.

On that Christmas Day some 104 years ago the two sides actually emerged from their trenches and played a soccer (football) game.  That’s right, they put down their weapons and kicked around a soccer ball for a couple of hours!  (Germany won the game, by the way).  It is a moment in time that we should all reflect on when considering how lucky we are today.

These days the America and Germany are staunch allies and we at A.J.’s Import Garage are proud to service the reliable German-made vehicles that are being driven around the Topeka area.  What goes around, comes around and the consistence of German cars with the tender loving care we give at A.J.’s is a powerful combination.  Merry Christmas from all of us at A.J.’s Import Garage at 501 S.W. Harrison. 

Come on, Come on, Turn Over.

Have you ever said that to your car when you try to start it on a cold Topeka morning?  I think most of us have.  It happens to just about everyone who does not have garage parking during these upcoming winter months.  Don’t we all dread the clicking noise that we hear when an engine won’t turn over on a December morning?

Here are some tips –

1.  Your battery may need replacing

2.  There is water in your fuel line

3.  You’ve got the wrong oil in your vehicle

4.  Something is wrong with the carburetor

Here is the best tip of all.  Have your car checked for winter by the mechanics at A.J.’s Import Garage.  A.J.’s has been the go-to area prevention mechanic for both foreign and domestic cars for many years.  As winter dawns don’t forget A.J.’s Import Garage located at 501 S.W. Harrison in Topeka KS.  Call for an appointment at (785) 233-1000.

Foreign SUVs.

When people think of cars and SUVs made in the United States, they think of the usual Chevy, Ford and GM products.  However, today several foreign automakers manufacture SUVs in the United States as well, such as Acura, BMW, Honda, Hyundai, Kia, Mercedes-Benz, Subaru and Volkswagen.  They are manufactured at various plants around our country.

You can research some of the great foreign vehicles that are popping up in the US.  ALL of them will need maintenance and the manufacturer will charge more and probably make you wait longer for much-needed maintenance and repair.  In today’s busy world that is not always best for you…the consumer.

When you commit to owning a new or used foreign vehicle you should look into your options for service.  That will become just as or even more important over time than the buying decision itself.  Why not utilize our expertise?  We are A.J.’s Import Garage serving all of the Topeka area’s foreign car service needs for many years.  Just call ahead at (785) 233-1000.

How Long Do You Want your German Motor Car to Last?

We assume that you did not buy a high-profile car without expecting it to last a lot longer than a domestic make.  You can’t expect it to give you the longevity that you seek without regular maintenance.  All German vehicles absolutely require that factory scheduled maintenance be performed as outlined in their owner’s manual.

In very few cases, however, does the owner’s manual dictate that you should have this maintenance done at the dealership.  Two things that are generally understood about having all of your maintenance done there…1.) it will take longer and 2) it will cost more.  Is that really necessary to get top-flight service?

We say no!  We are A.J.’s Import Garage…Topeka’s premier German motor car regularly scheduled maintenance professions.  We strive to do the job faster with the same accuracy and to save you money.  Why not stop in at our location 501 SW Harrison in Topeka and see for yourself…or call ahead for an appointment at (785) 233-1000.

Caring for your Bug.

By bug we mean maintenance of your Volkswagen.  It is important that you know how to properly maintain your baby bug.  Let’s take a look at the cooling system of your VW vehicle.  It is one of the parts that can easily deteriorate due to constant use and exposure to engine heat.  This is the part that you might have to replace more often.

Here are some helpful hints –

1.  Simply put, a clean engine runs more smoothly.

2.  Make it a habit of replacing your VW car's coolant before the factory recommended intervals.

3.  Change out all of the cooling system’s hoses.

4.  Make sure to have the water pump drive belt adjusted.

5.  Switch your Volkswagen’s fan clutch or fan blade if needed.

For any service you’ll ever need on your beloved VW always trust A.J.’s Import Garage.  They are the Topeka area’s Volkswagen repair professionals.  You don’t have time to travel an hour to Kansas City.  You don’t need to!  The best place for your VW is A.J.’s Import Garage.  They are located at 501 SW Harrison.  Call for an appointment at (785) 233-1000.

Are you Having a Problem with your Zahnriemen?

Say what?  Your Zahnriemen is the German translation of your timing belt.  You don’t need to know the language to know you have a problem.  Finding certified mechanics that specialize in German motor car timing belts including Mercedes, BMW, Porsche, Audi, Volkswagen etc. is like discovering gold!

Here are some signs that your beauty is having timing belt issues –

1.  The dreaded check engine light illuminates

2.  Misfire and rough running of your engine

3.  The engine simply will not start

4.  Sever engine overheating

5.  A loose timing chain smashes other engine components

All you have to remember is A.J.’s Import Garage.  Their master ASE certified mechanics will troubleshoot the problem and repair it…guaranteed!  It’s comforting to know that whenever you have a problem with your German car in the Topeka area all you have to do is call (785) 233-1000 for an appointment at 501 SW Harrison in Topeka Kansas.

The Ring Rules.

This is not an homage to the Lord of the Rings, but rather one to the amazing automobile known as the Audi.  The Audi exudes beauty and status and is super-impressive to drive.  When you consider buying an Audi as your next vehicle you are making a measured decision.  WHERE you choose to have it maintained is just as important.

Here are some reasons you should consider that “new”/used Audi as your next car –

1.  They have style without being too showy

2.  The comfort you feel when you sit behind the wheel

3.  Technological advances beyond most other cars on the road

4.  They are manufactured with the environment considered first

A commitment to an Audi demands respect when you consider who will maintain it.  Not surprisingly, the technicians at A.J.’s Import Garage are the right people to trust.  They are the Topeka area’s Audi maintenance professionals.  Whatever the issue, you can trust A.J’s with your new baby.  Call them to make an appointment at (785) 233-1000. 

Crank up the A/C.

Yes indeed, it is approaching that time of year when it is time to use your air conditioning in your Topeka area German import.  A detailed inspection of your car’s air conditioning system needs to be done each and every year.  If you don’t, it may be far more expensive in the end.  Also, if it smells, the system should be disinfected.

Mold from your vehicle’s air conditioning system can spread each time that you turn on the a/c.  The exposure that you and your passengers get could be dangerous to your health.  This is especially true of people with respiratory conditions.  So get it checked and clean it up before you crank it up!

In the Topeka area your foreign car’s air conditioning system should be checked and maintained by the best.  That is A.J.’s Import Garage.  Their technicians have over 30 years of experience in dealing with condensers and compressors.  Make an appointment at their 501 S.W. Harrison location in Topeka by calling (785) 233-1000.

Type Approval.

Say what?  Yeah, type approval.  Did you know that in Europe cars get something known as type approval?  Here is what that means.  The manufacturer has one car tested to see if it complies with all the rules and regulations that apply for this type of vehicle.  When this one passes, all subsequent cars of this type are considered “road-worthy”.

This rigorous testing includes emission standards that, without a catalytic converter, are impossible to comply with.  Any modification to a car that would violate type approval rules is illegal (at least in Europe).  So, if you drive a European car, you can take comfort in the knowledge that it has passed what is known as type approval.

What if you drive a European-made vehicle in the Topeka, KS area?  Well, you are pretty darn lucky because you can count on A.J.’s Import Garage for all of your maintenance and repair needs.  They have been located at 501 S.W. Harrison in Topeka for many years.  Just give them a call for a service appointment at (785) 233-1000.

Pay Attention to your Timing Belt.

I know there are several thousand things that you would rather do than concern yourself about the timing belt in your German car.  Replacing the timing belt on your Audi, Mercedes, BMW or Porsche may not be your highest priority in keeping your prized vehicle in tip-top shape, but the results of a failed timing belt can be catastrophic and costly!

The timing belt is absolutely crucial to the proper functioning of the engine. There are two internal engine parts, the crank and cam shafts.  They have to work together in perfect rhythm. The timing belt allows these two parts to operate like a fine-tuned instrument. When the timing belt fails, the damage to the engine can result in thousands of dollars in repairs.

Thousands of dollars…that should get your attention!  Attention to detail is what the proper maintenance of your German-owned car is all about.  Around Topeka folks have trusted A.J.’s Import Garage for the care and maintenance of their pride and joy.  Make an appointment for a check-up at our location 501 S.W. Harrison in Topeka by calling (785) 233-1000.

Proper Mercedes Benz Maintenance.

You have invested in one of the most important pieces of machinery in the world.  The last thing in the world you want to do is neglect it!  It is your Mercedes Benz vehicle.  It needs regular TLC, but you know that.  Follow your manual, follow your instincts, and make sure that your Benz stays in top condition throughout its life.

Here are some tips to keep your baby humming along –

1.  Have your hoses and belts checked for cracks and nicks.

2.  Regular oil changes and new filters…obviously!

3.  Check around the outside…headlights, taillights, brake lights, etc.

4.  Protect your car from harmful UV rays.

Above all, trust the best mechanic to do the important work.  In Topeka, that is the team from A.J.’s Import Garage.  They are the Topeka area’s Mercedes regular maintenance specialists.  They know your import car and care for it as if it were their own.  Call ahead at (785) 233-1000 for regular maintenance at 501 S.W. Harrison in Topeka.

Owning an Asian Import.

You might be one of the millions of Americans who drive a vehicle imported from the Asian continent.  The numbers continue to grow even in the Topeka area.  Among the most popular are Honda, Toyota, Nissan, Subaru, Hyundai, and Kia.  They all have their special needs when it comes to maintenance.

For instance, why does Toyota have a higher market share in the US than Honda?  Here is a case in point…Toyota has many more models than Honda, and they have perfected the use of common platforms to produce a wide variety of vehicle types with common engines and other components.

Whatever Asian import you drive you know that maintenance of that vehicle has a best friend.  It is Topeka area Asian import repair specialist A.J.’s Import Garage.  Please visit our new website at ajsimportgarage.com to discover all that we do for your foreign or domestic car.  We are located at 501 S.W. Harrison in Topeka.  Call ahead (785) 233-1000.

Oil Changes…So Simple and So Important.

Why should we care whether our vehicle (especially our German car) has regular oil changes?  People who own European cars often ask, “How often do I need to change the oil in my four-wheeled baby?”  Some, actually assume that once a year is adequate!  Well, the amount and type of driving that you do has a great bearing on that.

Some German automobile manufacturers make claims that their newer models do not require oil changes until 7,500 - 13,000 miles, we are not sure that is realistic.  Do you want to risk diminishing the lifespan of your vehicle?  Ten thousand plus miles without an oil change is likely a horrible way to treat your BMW, Mini Cooper, Mercedes, Audi, or Volkswagen.

Why not check with the experts for sage advice on oil changes and other maintenance tips for your German-owned car?  We are A.J.’s Import Garage.  A.J.’s has built a reputation in keeping your foreign car on the road for as long as you wish.  We are your German car’s best buddy.  Give us a call at (785) 233-1000 or stop in at 501 S.W. Harrison in Topeka.

Our ASE’s are Aces.

Just what does ASE stand for?  It is short for the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence. Since the year 1972 this well-respected independent non-profit organization has worked to improve the quality of vehicle repair and service by testing and certifying automotive professionals throughout the land.

How does an individual become a certified ASE mechanic?

1.  It starts by creating an account on their official website.

2.  You choose the proper tests to take.

3.  Then, of course you must arrange to take those tests.

4.  Find a test center nearest to you.

5.  Schedule a time to roll up your sleeves and take the tests.

Obviously, the longer that you have been certified as an ASE mechanic the better.  How about the people at A.J.’s Import Garage Topeka’s certified automotive service excellence center?  Their master mechanics have logged over 30 years of experience as ASE certified mechanics.  You can’t do better than calling or stopping in at A.J.’s Import Garage located at 501 S.W. Harrison or calling (785) 233-1000.

Stay on Schedule.

That is great advice for just about everything in life.  As it pertains to your car’s maintenance it is essential unless you want to be buying a new vehicle every year or two.  Now, staying on schedule implies a lot of things, and the best of us not only pay attention to oil changes, but also tune ups, air filters, and other internal mechanics that will surely fail without regular attention.

Pay attention to your vehicle’s owner’s manual.  It is the gospel, but nowhere does it say that you have to always go back to where you bought the car in the first place to have your scheduled maintenance done.  What that may do is result in more money and certainly more time than you want to spend!  Why do that?

At A.J.’s Import Garage we specialize in regularly scheduled maintenance for your foreign OR domestic vehicle.  We pride ourselves on keeping your car on the road longer and for less.  Make it a habit to visit our shop located at 501 S.W. Harrison in Topeka KS.  Call ahead for an appointment at (785) 233-1000.

Why Get a Tune-Up.

Today's cars are computer controlled.  Because of that, the definition of a tune up has really changed. On most cars the only parts that can really be replaced are the Spark Plugs, Spark Plug Wires, Fuel Filters, Air Filters and Positive Crankcase Ventilation Valves.  These days, how can you tell when your vehicle needs one?

Here are some signs that a tune-up should be done soon –

1.  Keep an eye on the dashboard for warning lights.

2.  Does your car ever stall at intersections?

3.  Your vehicle is hard to start in the morning.

4.  Poorer gas mileage.

5.  Sluggish acceleration or even loss of power.

Don’t hide your head in the sand!  You know when your vehicle is not behaving the way it used to.  If it’s time, then immediately make an appointment at 501 S.W. Harrison in Topeka KS.  That the is the home of Topeka tune up and auto maintenance experts A.J.’s import garage.  The number to call is (785) 233-1000.

Why Buy New?

There is nothing quite like a new car be it foreign or domestic.  Getting behind the wheel of your brand-new vehicle is a special feeling.  However, that euphoria can quickly turn to financial frustration month-after-month for the next 5 years as you make that car payment.  Have you paid off your current car?

If you are free and clear of vehicle payments in 2018 why not consider keeping it that way and pocket that car-payment money each month or use it for some other household expense.  The first thing to do is assess how much needs to be put into your current ride to keep it road-worthy.  If you believe that cost is far less than a new car payment, then opt. for maintenance instead.

Now, as it pertains to German and domestic vehicle maintenance in the Topeka area, the answer is always A.J.’s Import Garage.  A.J.’s enters the New Year just as they closed the old one, as Topeka’s top spot for import auto repair and maintenance.  Call for an appointment at their 501 S.W. Harrison location at (785) 233-1000.