Service Smart Saturday will be Saturday, May 21st, 2022
Service Smart Saturday will be Saturday, May 21st, 2022
Signed in as:
filler@godaddy.com
We believe knowledge is empowering. We offer two vehicle inspection services to our clients: you can choose which level of thoroughness is right for you and your vehicle.
Service Smart℠* and the PAC Courtesy Check.
*Service Smart℠ requires membership fee.
We offer Auto Fluid Services (oil changes, coolant flushes, etc), Wheel Alignments, Brake Replacements, Filter Changes, Belt Replacements, Spark Plug Replacements, Strut & Shock Replacements and Cosmetic Maintenance!
Car Air Conditioning Repairs, Check Engine Light Repairs, Cooling System Repairs, Flood Repairs, Ignition System Repairs, Starting & Charging System Repairs, Steering Repairs and Suspension Repairs .
Inspection Hours:
9:00 AM - 1:00 PM
$25.50 for safety & emissions
Must provide valid insurance documents.
We have the personnel and technology to resolve most auto repair problems. Check Engine Light, Overheating Problems, Car AC Blowing Hot.
Testing ranges between $59.99 to $124.97 for an ASE Certified Technician to inspect. You will receive a report of findings. The fee is separate from repairs.
Prepurchase Inspections. Vehicle for Hire Inspections for City of Houston (TNC License). Air Check Texas Repair Facility. Fleet Maintenance & Repair Services.
We accept most extended warranties.
Over a 150 point thorough check out and evaluation of your vehicle regarding Safety, Repair, and Maintenance, including pictures and a detailed report.
We open one Saturday each month exclusively for Service Smart℠ clients. Does not include diagnostic testings. Other restrictions may apply.
Basic 12 point inspection of fluid levels, tire pressure, belts, hoses , air filter and basic battery check out.
Full four-wheel alignment service with adjustments made to manufacturer specifications by a certified technician with a printout of your vehicle readings. Did you know you should have your alignment checked once every year, according to Tire Buyer?
We install WORLD SOURCEONE® batteries. They are maintenance-free, exact fit, exact performance, OEM style batteries. Two-year free replacement and eligible for roadside assistance. Did you know batteries are the #1 reason for roadside assistance calls, according to AAA?
Worn-out brake pads limit your ability to slow and stop the vehicle safely. Brake pads should be replaced when the friction material reaches minimum acceptable levels. A thorough inspection of other brake components is essential to proper avoidance of future brake problems. Ask about our brake inspection process. Service Smart℠ clients have free brake inspections. Wouldn't it be nice to know you'll need brakes in 6 months so you can plan and budget your time and money instead of scrambling for a reservation when you hear the terrible grinding noise?
Belts are responsible for running major vehicle systems, including the air conditioning, charging system, engine cooling system, power steering system, etc. Belts require proper tension to operate correctly, which is why additional system components like belt tensioners and pulleys also need to be replaced regularly. Did you know your belts should be replaced every 90,000 miles and inspected every 60,000 miles according to the Gates Corporation? (Gates is one of the world’s largest original equipment manufacturers (OE) belts and metal parts).
Over time, odors (from bacteria, mold, spores, fungi, road grime, nicotine oils, and miscellaneous debris) can develop and accumulate on the evaporator core since it is located in a dark, damp environment. Humid air passing through the air conditioning evaporator core usually leaves condensation droplets on the core creating a moist environment promoting bacterial growth and odors.
Replacing your vehicle's filters regularly will help your vehicle run better and last longer. Refer to your owner's manual for your vehicle's specific filter change intervals and/or periodically have them inspected to see if they need replacement. Driving through dusty areas, e.g., construction zones will require more frequent replacement. According to CarsDirect, "for each gallon of fuel burned, the engine uses up to 10,000 gallons of air"! Filter maintenance is critical to proper vehicle function.
We provide a variety of fluid services to maintain the major vehicle systems. Cooling system flushes, transmission fluid services ranging from flushes to pan drops with filter changes to drain and fills, driveline services performing front and rear differential fluid flushes, brake fluid flushes, and power steering fluid flushes. Ask about our fuel system treatments, too.
Hoses are vital components of a vehicle. They act as the car's veins, circulating vital fluids, oils, vapors, and gases. Virtually every system of your vehicle is equipped with them. The maintenance of certain hoses is crucial to avoid complete system failure. According to Consumer Reports, "hoses are the cooling system's weakest structural component...The upper radiator hose fails more often than any other hose."
The fuel/air induction system ensures the proper fuel and air ratio correct, efficient combustion. Over time deposits build up that prevent the computer from attaining the most accurate readings. These deposits need to be periodically cleaned out for the vehicle to continue working within manufacturer specifications for smooth vehicle operation.
Engine oil is critical for proper vehicle operation. Engine oil maintains engine lubrication, cools engine components, removes engine wear particles and sludge, improves gas mileage, and promotes longevity. A recent study by the Car Care Council of the Be Car Care Aware campaign stated that 22% of vehicles have low or dirty engine oil. When was your last oil change? Try us out and interview our shop with an oil change.
The timing belt ensures all the various parts of the engine are synchronized. The timing belt connects the crankshaft at the bottom of the engine to the camshafts at the top of the engine. The teeth on the belt and the crankshaft and camshaft sprockets ensure that the valves open and close at exactly the right times. The intake valve opens to allow fuel and air into the cylinder and closes as the mixture is compressed, then ignited, and the exhaust valve opens to allow the waste gasses out. Timing belts are lighter, quieter, and more fuel-efficient than metal timing chains but require replacement at manufacturer-recommended intervals. If the belt breaks when the engine is running, it is possible that valves can become stuck in the open position and become bent by contact with the piston. Fun fact: not all vehicles have a timing belt!
Tires are expensive, but tire maintenance doesn't have to be! Through proper maintenance, you can get the most life out of your tires. We've seen many tires that need to be replaced, and most of them are only in that state because of neglect and lack of maintenance. Basic tire maintenance includes tire rotations, tire balancing, checking tire pressure, and yearly alignment checks. The State of Texas Vehicle Inspection requires tires to have a tread groove pattern depth of at least 2/32 of an inch when measured in a center tread groove.
The air conditioning system can have four (4) different issues: mechanical, electrical, ducts, or refrigerant. All these types of issues can have a similar effect: an uncomfortable vehicle cabin experience. The air conditioning is part of the HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning) system. The primary function is to provide you comfort while operating your motor vehicle. The air conditioning system's function is to remove heat and moisture from the air, reducing the relative humidity in the passenger compartment.
The key parts of the cooling system remove heat from the engine and automatic transmission. The water pump circulates coolant throughout the engine. The coolant absorbs the heat and returns it to the radiator, where the heat is dissipated. The thermostat regulates the coolant temperature to keep it consistent for efficient engine operation. According to Geico, overheating problems if among the top four reasons for being stranded during the summer months.
The exhaust and emissions system muffles engine noise while reducing harmful fuel vapors and exhaust pollutants. Exhaust gases are collected from the cylinder head by the exhaust manifold, which diverts the exhaust gases by traveling through a catalytic converter where harmful components are converted to inert gases. The gases then pass through a muffler, which decreases the noise of the exhaust before exiting through the tailpipe located at the rear of the vehicle, where exhaust gases have little or no chance of entering the passenger compartment.
The fuel and engine management system supplies the proper mixture of air and gasoline to the engine while reducing harmful vapors and exhaust pollutants. According to Car Care Council, a little preventative maintenance can save you from unnecessary fuel costs.
The heater is part of the HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning) system. The primary function is to provide you comfort while operating your motor vehicle. If you are experiencing an engine operating at higher than normal temperatures, visit the engine cooling system link above^.
The ignition system creates the spark that ignites the fuel and air in a gasoline engine. Spark plugs need to be replaced at the service intervals recommended by your vehicle's manufacturer to help keep up a healthy ignition system. According to Car Talk, "What happens if I don't [replace spark plugs]? Your engine will start to misfire and run poorly, performance will suffer, efficiency will decrease, and emissions will dramatically increase. Your car may also be difficult to start...If you don't remove these spark plugs until they're due to be changed, you might find it extremely difficult or even impossible to remove them when the time comes."
The starting system includes the ignition switch, starter motor, battery, and connected wiring components. The charging system includes the alternator, voltage regulator, and connected wiring. The starter motor rotates the engine until it can rotate on its own power.
The steering system enables you to steer your vehicle in the direction you desire.
Your vehicle's suspension system is often referred to as the "ride and handling system." It is the system that connects the frame of the vehicle to the wheels. The ride and handling system supports the vehicle's weight, keeps the wheels in contact with the road, and helps provide a comfortable ride for passengers.
This test is performed by an ASE Certified Air Conditioning Certified Technician. The technician will take steps to identify if the problem being experienced is: a mechanical, an electrical, a direction/air duct, or a refrigerant-related problem.
All tests come with a detailed report of findings gathered during our testing process, the recommended action for repairs, and post-repair testing results.
Note: Air conditioning performance testing is a stand-alone fee and does not go towards repairs. The air conditioning machine used at Professional Auto Care is almost $5,000. We only supply our team with the best available equipment to work on our client's vehicles. This fee is to compensate the technician for their skill, training, mandatory government certifications, tools, time, and cover the maintenance of the vehicle air conditioning testing machine.
A certified technician performs this test for a brake inspection. The vehicle will undergo a road test both at low and high speeds. All wheels are removed from the vehicle, and brakes are measured. Brake fluid is tested.
All tests come with a detailed report of findings gathered, including pictures during our inspection process and the recommended action for repairs.
Note: If brake work is purchased the same day, the inspection fee is waived. The inspection fee covers the technician's time spent driving, removing tires, measuring, taking pictures, recording findings, recommending action, and reinstalling tires.
A certified technician performs this test. The technician will gather readings and specifically el trims and individual sensor output.
All tests come with a detailed report of findings gathered, sometimes including pictures, during our testing process, the recommended action for repairs, and post-repair testing results.
Note: Catalytic converter & oxygen sensor testing is a stand-alone fee and does not go towards repairs. Like when one goes to the doctor, we need to run specific tests with scanners that require yearly, sometimes even quarterly, updates and calibrations. This is to compensate the technician for their skill, training, tools, and time.
An ASE Certified MASTER Technician performs this test. The check engine light can illuminate for various reasons, and sometimes additional lights and codes may present themselves as a result of another. The key for check engine light testing is to get to the root of the problem rather than treating symptoms. The testing is performed post repairs as well at no additional charge to ensure the integrity of repairs.
All tests come with a detailed report of findings gathered, sometimes including pictures, during our testing process, the recommended action for repairs, and post-repair testing results.
Note: Check engine light testing is a separate fee and does not go towards repairs. Like when one goes to the doctor, we need to run specific tests with scanners that require yearly, sometimes even quarterly, updates and calibrations. This is to compensate the technician for their skill, training, tools, and time.
An ASE Certified Technician will run a variety of troubleshooting techniques to evaluate the following items but not limited to: water pump operation, an inspection of the radiator, cooling fan operation, thermostat operation, inspecting for coolant leaks. This is accomplished with physical inspections of different cooling system components, scanners, cooling system pressure testing kits. The testing is performed post repairs as well at no additional charge to ensure the integrity of repairs. All tests come with a detailed report of findings gathered, sometimes including pictures, during our testing process, the recommended action for repairs, and post-repair testing results.
Note: Cooling System Overheating/Coolant Leak Testing is a separate fee and does not go towards repairs. Like when one goes to the doctor, we need to run specific tests with scanners that require yearly, sometimes even quarterly updates and calibrations. This is to compensate the technician for their skill, training, tools, time, and equipment maintenance.
An ASE Certified Technician performs this test. The technician will hook up the vehicle to a specific testing device that introduces smoke into the vehicle's Evaporative Emission System to help identify the leak's source.
All tests come with a detailed report of findings gathered, sometimes including pictures, during our testing process, the recommended action for repairs, and post-repair testing results.
Note: EVAP Emission Smoke Testing is a separate fee and does not go towards repairs. Like when one goes to the doctor, we need to run specific tests with scanners that require yearly, sometimes even quarterly updates and calibrations. This is to compensate the technician for their skill, training, tools, time, and equipment maintenance.
If you have noticed oil stains on your home driveway or work parking spot and believe your vehicle is leaking oil, transmission fluid, or power steering fluid, then you may want to have a certified professional perform steam clean to help determine the source(s).
Most people do not check their fluid levels as often as needed, and many times a leak can arise without the owner realizing it until stains begin to show wherever the vehicle is parked. The detection process can sometimes be relatively simple and can easily be seen clearly, especially with early detection.
However, for the majority of cases, the leak has completely saturated the area surrounding the leak. At such a point, it is necessary to steam clean the vehicle's engine to help determine the source, severity of the leak, and safety concerns. Much of the time, older vehicles will have multiple leaks.
An ASE Certified Technician performs this test. The technician will perform a variety of tasks to identify the source of the starting problem. The process includes taking an in-depth look at the performance of the starting system (from the ignition switch to starter motor), charging system, the performance of the alternator, and related system components, such as belts and connections, and a load test of the battery. The system, in a nutshell [and overly simplified], gets power from the battery, which signals the ignition switch, which signals the starter, which turns the engine, and the alternator constantly is recharging the battery. It is important to check the COMPLETE system. Have you ever heard of someone who just got their battery replaced and still having starting problems?
All tests come with a detailed report of findings gathered, sometimes including pictures, during our testing process, the recommended action for repairs, and post-repair testing results.
Note: Starting & Charging System Testing is a separate fee and does not go towards repairs. Like when one goes to the doctor, we need to run specific tests with scanners and equipment that require yearly, sometimes even quarterly, updates and calibrations. This is to compensate the technician for their skill, training, tools, time, and equipment maintenance.
A Certified Technician performs this inspection. The technician will perform a full road test at various speeds and physically check the integrity of various steering and suspension components.
All tests come with a detailed report of findings gathered, including pictures during our inspection process and the recommended action for repairs.
Note: If steering or suspension work is purchased the same day, the fee is waived. If steering or suspension work is not purchased the same day, the steering and suspension inspection fee will apply. This is to compensate the technician's time for driving, removing tires (if necessary), measuring (if necessary), taking pictures, recording findings, recommending action, and reinstalling tires.
We recommend these services at least at the beginning of the allergy season that have the worst impact on you. There are three allergy seasons: Spring (tree), Summer (grass), and Fall (weed).
Allergy Season Services include Paint Protectant, Cabin Air Filter Replacement, Climate Control Service, Ozone Treatment Service, Steam Cleaning Carpet Service.
Having these services performed can lessen the negative effects of allergens by minimizing your exposure to them. Shampooing carpet is another end-of-the allergy season service to remove any pollen that may have attached itself to you or your family or anything you've put in your vehicle.
Common extended coverage companies we most frequently work with include Enterprise, SecureNet, SafeGuard, Courtesy Claims, Endurance, and Continuous Customer Care. Other warranty companies accepted include American Financial, ASAP, Autopom, CARCHEX, AA Auto Protection, Delta Auto Protect, EasyCare, Mastertech, Protect My Car, USAA, Warranty Direct, and more. We have the experience and expertise to work with your extended warranty. Please bring in paperwork from your select warranty company when you drop off your vehicle. Please note that waiting and inspection periods sometimes prolong the repair process when working with an extended warranty claim.
Professional Auto Care has been the trusted name for Houstonians for many years, especially during times of emergency. We work with all insurance companies and have even developed relationships with the catastrophe teams flown to Houston during these times of crisis. We work for YOU, not your insurance company. Dealing with flood car damage is stressful enough, so we provide reports and updates all along the way to ensure you are in control and know what is going on with your vehicle at all times. The most important thing to do when involved with a Houston flood is to act IMMEDIATELY.
Professional Auto Care provides quality and reliable fleet repair and fleet maintenance to keep your auto fleet on the road and dependable. We understand you and your customers rely on your fleet to get the job done. You can always expect honest, reliable, and friendly service with each visit.
Leather in cars has a special clear coat on top of it to help seal it from oils. Over time skin, body oils, clothing, and other items break down the clear coat on top of the leather. A leather treatment service cleans the clear coat as well as reinforces it. Unlike other products on the market, the Leather Only utilized at Professional Auto Care is not hard on leather. While other products strip the clear coat giving the appearance of cleaning, Leather Only addresses the source of the problem: the clear coat. Performing a leather treatment can be a tedious, time-consuming task. To ensure excellence and efficiency, we first clean the seats, removing any dirt or debris, and only then do we apply Leather Only in one small section of the seat at a time.
The paint protectant treatment offers a coat of protection against Houston's often harsh weather conditions. Just like you apply sunblock before going to the beach (and ladies, we apply the cream every morning to our faces that have at least SPF 30), your vehicle's exterior needs a layer of protection. However, sunspots aren't the only thing to worry about: acid rain, pollen, and winged friends do plenty of damage as well. Pollen is acidic and can damage your vehicle. Simply wiping pollen off can create micro-scratches because of pollen's super sticky, hook-like qualities. It is important to create a regimen for exterior paint maintenance. Don't wait until you begin to see the damage because the paint will require serious repairs by that time.
An ASE Master Certified Technician examines the vehicle you are considering purchasing while documenting all their findings in our comprehensive report, including helpful pictures to illustrate any issues. We provide you with all the information you will need to help you decide and negotiate your deal.
Why undergo a Pre Purchase Vehicle Evaluation (PPVE)?
Reduce your risk of purchasing a lemon car. Don't put your safety or the safety of your family at risk. Prevent the purchase of someone else's problem. Provides negotiation points from a credible, well-known, local, independent automotive repair facility.
Our PPVE process takes between 3 to 4 hours to complete. Reservations are necessary. We require either the customer or the dealer to drop off the vehicle at our location because we will NOT travel to any location. All our equipment is at our facility, and so the vehicle must be as well. The majority of the Pre Purchase Vehicle Evaluations we perform are for clients out of state to whom we send PDF reports via email. We NEVER disclose any findings to a third party.
What categories are covered in the PPVE?
Air Conditioning/Heating Systems. Alignment Check. Brake System. Cooling System. Electronic Systems/Computer Scan. Engine. Exterior. Full Road Test. Interior. Luggage Compartment. Steering System. Suspension System. Transmission.
Professional Auto Care performs the City of Houston For Hire Inspections. The city of Houston for Hire Inspections are performed between 8:00 AM and 2:00 PM Monday through Friday. You MUST have a scheduled reservation for your Vehicle for Hire Inspection for expedited service. If you fail the inspection, you MUST pay the inspection fee, and you may return within 10 days for no charge for reinspection. You MUST have a reservation for a reinspection.
Our auto repair facility is a Recognized Emission Repair Facility with the certifications to serve those living in Harris, Fort Bend, Galveston, Brazoria, and Montgomery counties. If your vehicle has failed the emissions portion of the State Inspection, Air Check Texas: Drive a Clean Machine issues vouchers to help repair your vehicle. To be eligible for the repair assistance, you must be a resident of one of these counties: Montgomery, Brazoria, Galveston, Fort Bend, Harris.
Copyright © 2019 Professional Auto Care - All Rights Reserved.
Privacy Policy available on Contact Us Page.
(713) 270-0474
Saturday, May 21st is the next Service Smart Saturday.
You can schedule service, find pricing on common services, request quotes, read feedback from clients, see how we got started, and learn cool car care facts!
Mother's Day Promotions are posted under the Shop tab.
Be sure to check out Karolena's blog at, www.maintenanceisamust.com