Key Takeaways:

• Antifreeze or coolant both refer to radiator fluid.
• It keeps the engine running at an optimal temperature, even in cold weather conditions.

• Antifreeze and coolant are essential for your vehicle and should be changed regularly every two years.
• If you live around extreme temperatures or drive extensively in dusty conditions, you may need to change your coolant more frequently.
• Check the color of the radiator fluid. If it is off, you should flush it with a new one.
• If the fluid looks cloudy or milky, this may signify possible contamination with engine oil or transmission fluid from a petroleum product.
• Auffenburg CDJR of Herrin offers car repair and maintenance services to customers in Johnston City, IL, and the surrounding areas.

When the weather cools down, you must ensure that your car is ready for winter. A critical constituent of your engine cooling system is radiator fluid comprising antifreeze and coolant. This liquid helps to keep your engine running at an optimal temperature, even in cold weather conditions. Auffenburg CDJR of Herrin will discuss the essential facts about antifreeze and coolants. We will cover everything from their composition to their benefits to how you can maintain them properly.

Radiator Fluid

Radiator fluid is the name given to both antifreeze and coolant. As a result, if you’re unsure what to call it, use that word instead. Now that winter is arriving soon, it’s time to prepare your car for extreme temperatures, salt-covered roads, and slushy driving conditions. Many individuals know that their radiator requires antifreeze when it’s freezing outdoors.

How it Works

Radiator fluid combines chemicals that prevent freezing, overheating, and corrosion. In addition, it serves as a heat transfer agent for the engine by warming the engine block when cold and drawing heat away from components when hot.

The cooling system runs in a loop, flowing through the engine and heater core before reaching the radiator and starting over again. Vehicle manufacturers ensure that their radiator fluid can protect your vehicle in hot and cold weather by considering all types of climates when they design it.

Corrosion inhibitors are added to these liquids to protect your engine and its cooling system from scale, rust, and pollutants that can harm their efficiency over time. Your car’s engine may overheat or seize up if you don’t have radiator fluid in it, causing significant damage to your vehicle and potentially leaving you stranded.

Composition of Coolant and Antifreeze

Coolant is made of water and glycol. Glycol is an antifreeze agent that helps to keep the liquid from freezing in cold weather conditions. It also prevents the coolant from overheating and boiling in extreme heat, helping to keep engine temperatures stable regardless of climate or driving conditions. The ratio of water to glycol in the coolant can vary, but it is typically around 50/5. The resultant coolant mix must have low freezing and high boiling points for antifreeze to work properly. It ensures that your engine will not overheat or freeze in extreme temperatures.

Learn more about the composition of coolant and antifreeze.

Benefits of Antifreeze and Coolant

There are many benefits to using antifreeze and coolant mix in your car.

1. Protects the Engine from Corrosion

It helps to protect your engine from corrosion and rust. It also helps to prevent overheating by circulating the coolant through the radiator.

2. Prolongs the Life of the Engine

Additionally, antifreeze and coolant can help prolong your engine’s life by keeping it running at an optimal temperature.

3. Regulates the Temperature of the Engine

Radiator fluid is a critical component of any engine cooling system. It helps to keep the engine running at an optimal temperature, even in cold weather conditions.

To keep your radiator functioning correctly, you must change the fluid regularly. Most car dealerships recommend changing it every two years. However, you may need to replace it more often if you live in an area with extreme temperatures or if you do much driving in dusty conditions.

Types of Radiator Fluids

Getting a compatible radiator fluid for your car is critical since many versions have various corrosion-inhibiting components. Organic, inorganic, and hybrid corrosion inhibitors

Many of these solutions coat the inner surfaces of engine components in a film of protective covering, which reduces friction and cleans them while also preventing deposits from forming. Radiator fluid comes in wide varieties, but the most important thing to remember is that it should never be mixed, and it’s preferable not to switch types during a refill.

If you mix different radiator fluids, a gel byproduct may form and clog the cooling system passages in your engine. It will cause the radiator fluid to overheat or freeze. So, if you’re unsure about what radiator fluid to use in your car, double-check before mixing them.

When is it Time for a Top Up?

You can check your coolant levels by finding the radiator fluid reservoir tank. Ensure your engine is cooled off, then open your vehicle’s hood. The coolant reservoir is usually a small white tank with maximum and minimum lines on the side. Next, find a cap with “engine coolant” or “antifreeze” written on it.

There are two things you need to check when it comes to your vehicle’s radiator fluid: the level and the color. The radiator fluid should be visible and fall between the two lines on the tank. If the color of the liquid is off, that means additives have been used up, and it might be time for a flush. If there’s a cloudy or milky look to the fluid, this may signify possible contamination with engine oil or transmission fluid from a petroleum product. In this case, take your car to a certified technician or the nearest car dealership as soon as possible.

Also, read our blog on DIY vehicle maintenance to keep your car in top-notch condition.

Need Car Repairs or Maintenance Services in Johnston City, IL? No Problem!

Auffenburg CDJR of Herrin, serving Johnston City, IL, is committed to providing excellent customer service. We want to ensure you have access to the expertise, equipment, and supplies you need to keep your car in top-notch condition. We carry a wide selection of antifreeze and coolants that will meet your specific needs.

Schedule your appointment!

We have a sizeable collection of new and pre-owned cars. And don’t forget about our Auffenberg Advantage–free car washes with every service visit, extra value for your trade-in, free appraisals, free vehicle history reports, and more! We look forward to serving your car at our dealership soon.

Contact us today!

When it comes time to replace your Dodge tires, it’s essential to make sure you select the right ones for your vehicle. Choosing the wrong tires can lead to decreased performance and dangerous driving conditions.

In this blog post, Auffenburg CDJR of Herrin will discuss five tips for choosing the right tires for your Dodge. We’ll cover everything from size and type to speed rating and load capacity. So let’s get started!

Tip 01: Match what you have – or get better

Looking for tires that match the ones you currently have on your vehicle is an excellent place to start. Your Dodge came equipped with a specific type and size of tire. When it’s time to replace them, you can stick with what you have or upgrade to something better.

If the size and performance of the current tires on your Dodge Durango are working well? Then continue using a comparable product. Want to increase your Jeep Gladiator’s off-roading capabilities? Upgraded options will help you take your experiences to the next level.

Tip 02: Consider your driving habits

How and where do you drive? Do you stick mainly to highways or venture off the beaten path? Do you frequently haul heavy loads or tow a trailer? You can get the right tires for your Dodge by providing answers to these questions.

If you do a lot of stop-and-go city driving, you’ll want a tire that can handle the heat buildup that comes with consistent braking. If most of your traveling is on motorways or highways, you’ll be looking for something different than someone who frequently drives off-road.

Tip 03: Consider weather conditions

All-season tires are a good choice for drivers who experience various weather conditions throughout the year. If you reside in a region that frequently suffers severe weather, you may want to consider investing in a set of winter or summer tires. Winter tires provide better traction and handling in snow and ice, while summer tires perform well in warm and dry weather.

Tip 04: Get to know the different types of tire treads.

Tire tread is the grooved pattern on the surface of a tire that comes into contact with the road. The depth and width of the tread determine how well your tires will grip the road. For example, all-season tires have shallower treads than winter tires because they are designed for various weather conditions.

Tip 05: Follow your budget – but prioritize quality

The cost of new tires for your Dodge can be high, so it’s important to factor in your budget when purchasing. That said, it’s also important to prioritize quality over cost. Choosing the cheapest option may save you cash in the short term, but it could cost you more in the long run if the tires do not provide safe and reliable performance.

So there you have it! By following these tips, you can choose the perfect tires for your Dodge.

Still uncertain about which tires are suitable for your Dodge?

We are here to help! Visit Auffenburg CDJR of Herrin, serving Pittsburg, IL, for all your car’s needs. We can handle any service your Mopar vehicle requires.

Schedule your service today!

Like most people, you probably think of used cars as less desirable than new cars. After all, who wouldn’t want to buy a brand new vehicle with no miles on it? However, there are many benefits to buying a used car instead of a new one. Certified pre-owned (CPO) used cars are one great option for those looking for a high-quality used car. But are CPO cars worth the extra money? Here’s what you need to know.

What is a CPO?

A CPO is a used car that goes through an extensive inspection process and repairs under strict expert supervision. CPO cars are essential “like new” cars but at a significantly lower price. To get certified, these vehicles must meet certain age and mileage requirements set by the car manufacturer.

The inspection process for a CPO car is comprehensive. Every certified pre-owned car must pass a strict multi-point inspection before going into the showroom. The inspection covers the interior and exterior of the vehicle, the engine, and other major mechanical components.

The interior inspection ensures no rips, tears, or stains on the upholstery and that all features (e.g., power windows, seat adjustments, etc.) are in working order.

The exterior inspection looks for scratches, dents, or other damage to the car’s body. The engine is inspected for performance and any potential issues.

The experts inspecting a car will repair or replace damaged parts to ensure the vehicle meets certified pre-owned standards.

The Benefits of a CPO Vehicle

Extended Warranty

These cars come with an extended warranty from the manufacturer. This warranty covers repairs for a certain amount of time or mileage, whichever comes first.

The warranty length varies by manufacturer, but it is often longer than the warranty on a new car.

Insurance

Since CPO vehicles undergo extensive inspections and repairs, insurers don’t hesitate to offer lower rates for certified pre-owned cars. This is because CPOs have a lower chance of requiring repairs, so insurance companies see them as less of a risk.

Better Performance than Other Used Cars

A certified pre-owned car must meet specific standards set by the manufacturer to be certified. This includes a thorough inspection of the vehicle’s condition and any necessary repairs or replacements. As a result, CPO vehicles tend to perform better than other used cars.

Better Resale Value

These cars have better resale value compared to regular used cars. Since CPO vehicles have a warranty and go through a detailed inspection process, they are more valuable than other used cars.

With a certified pre-owned car, you can get all of the benefits of a new car without the hefty price tag. The number of CPOssold in the U.S. has increased significantly over the past decade, and that trend will only continue as consumers become more and more aware of the benefits of buying these vehicles.

At Auffenburg CDJR of Herrin serving Bush, IL, we have an impressive inventory of certified vehicles from some of today’s most popular automakers. Browse our selection today to find your perfect vehicle.

It’s summertime, which means hot weather, beaches, barbecues, and road trips. But it is also the perfect time to change your car’s air filters! Many people wait until their car starts making strange noises or notice a decrease in fuel efficiency before changing their air filters.

But did you know summer is the best time to do this? Here are six reasons why:

Reason 01: The Hot Weather Causes Your Car to Work Harder

During the summer, your car is stressed due to the hot weather. The air conditioner works overtime to keep you cool, and the engine has to work harder to maintain operating temperature. This means that your car’s engine is sucking in more air, which can cause dust and dirt in the engine air filter.

Reason 02: Increased Pollen Count

If you have allergies, you know that summertime means dealing with pollen. Unfortunately, your car’s air filter has to deal with it too. Over time, the pollen can clog up the air filters, making it harder for your car to breathe.

Reason 03: Other Allergens

If you deal with allergies, you know how irritating it is to sneeze and sniffle. Unfortunately, your car’s cabin air filter may also be responsible for similar symptoms if you are allergic to something other than pollen. When you switch on the air conditioning, pollen and other accumulated particles in your air filter will be pumped back into the cabin.

You can reduce the number of allergens in your car and make summers a bit more comfortable by regularly replacing your air filter.

Reason 04: You’re Driving More

During the summer, people tend to take more road trips and go on vacation. This means you’re probably putting more miles on your car than usual. And the more you drive, the dirtier your air filters get.

Reason 05: To Improve Fuel Efficiency

Due to increasing demand in the summer, gas prices often climb. Changing the engine air filter is a great place to start if you want to reduce fuel expenses. A blocked airflow from an engine’s air filter can force it to work harder and burn more gasoline.

Changing the air filter can make your car run more efficiently and spend less on gas.

Reason 06: Engine Overheating

The hot weather might cause your engine to overheat, which is another reason to update your car’s air filter before summer. The internal parts of your engine may become damaged if it overheats.

The air filter is in charge of preventing particles from entering the engine. If the air filter is clogged, less air will pass through the engine, which will cause it to overheat.

So there you have it! Six good reasons to change your car’s air filter this summer. Not only will it help your car run better, but it can also improve your gas mileage. So why wait? Go get your air filter changed today!

Don’t hesitate to visit and call Auffenburg CDJR of Herrin, serving Creal Springs, IL, for an air filter inspection this summer.

Schedule your service today!

Driving in the rain can be treacherous if you’re not prepared. The combination of wet roads and slippery surfaces can make driving very dangerous.

In this blog post, experts at Auffenburg CDJR of Herrin will discuss some tips to be aware of before you begin driving in the rain. By sticking to these tips, you can stay safe on the road and make it to your destination without any problems!

Tip 01: Avoid Bald Tires

Driving on bald tires is dangerous no matter what the weather conditions are. But when it’s raining, your risk of hydroplaning increases significantly. When your tires hydroplane, they slide across the water’s surface without maintaining touch with the pavement. You could, as a result, lose control of your car and collide.

Make sure your tires have sufficient tread to prevent hydroplaning. You can determine the tread depth by placing a penny into the grooves. It’s time for new tires if you can see the top of the coin.

Tip 02: Slow Down

This one seems a no-brainer, but you’d be surprised how many people forget to do it. Driving too fast in the rain makes it more difficult to see and can increase your chances of hydroplaning. So, even if you’re running late, take a deep breath and slow down.

The speed limit is the max speed you should drive under ideal conditions and lower when it’s raining to avoid hydroplaning.

Tip 03: Use Your Lights

Whether it’s pouring or not, it’s a good idea to switch on your headlights when the weather is terrible. Your car is more visible to other cars and pedestrians thanks to its headlights. Headlights also improve your visibility of the surrounding area and the road. And if you have to drive in heavy rain, use your fog lights too. But remember to turn them off when the weather clears up, or you might blind oncoming traffic.

Tip 04: Don’t Drive Through Flooded Roads

It can be appealing to save time by driving through a flooded road. But resist the urge to do so! Driving through floodwaters can damage your car’s engine and electrical system and even ruin your tires.

Not to mention, it’s extremely dangerous. You could end up stranded in the middle of nowhere, or worse. So when in doubt, always err on the side of caution and take an alternative route.

Tip 05: Utilize Your Windshield Wipers

The windshield wipers on your automobile are made to keep water off the center of the windshield so you can see clearly. As soon as it begins to rain, turn on your windshield wipers to maximize your field of vision.

Additionally, do ensure that your windshield wipers are in excellent working order.

Driving in the heavy rain can be dangerous, but by following these simple tips, you can help to ensure a safe and sound journey. Stay alert, use your best judgment, and be cautious when making decisions while driving in the rain. And always remember to take an alternative route if conditions appear to be too hazardous.

Visit Auffenburg CDJR of Herrin, serving Painesville, IL, for your car servicing needs. Even though we are a little out of the way, the quality of service we offer makes the trip worthwhile.

Schedule your service today!

If you’re driving a car over three years old, keeping an eye on the radiator is essential. Neglecting radiator repair can lead to much bigger problems down the road. Auffenburg CDJR of Herrin will discuss warning signs that your car needs a radiator repair. By being proactive and catching these issues early, you can save time and money in the long run!

1. Overheating Engine

The most prominent sign that your car needs a radiator repair is if the engine starts to overheat. Various things can cause it, but it’s usually indicative of a problem with the radiator. If you notice that your engine temperature gauge is reading higher than usual, or if you see steam coming from the engine bay, pull over and call a mechanic to take a look and diagnose the problem.

2. Leaking Fluid

Another sign that your radiator might need some attention is if you notice fluid underneath your car. Radiator fluid is typically bright green or yellow, so it’s easy to spot when there’s a leak. If you’re losing radiator fluid quickly, ensure the hoses and clamps are in good condition and not leaking. Also, check the radiator cap to see if it’s damaged or loose. It’s essential to bring your car in for service as soon as possible.

3. Noisy Radiator

If your radiator makes strange noises, that’s also a cause for concern. Grinding, hissing, or bubbling sounds can indicate radiator problems. If you hear such noises coming from your car, don’t hesitate to give us a call.

4. Loss of Power

Another sign that your car needs a radiator repair is loss of power. If your car feels like it’s struggling to accelerate, or if the engine is sputtering, it could signal that the radiator is not functioning correctly.

5. Clogged Radiator

If your radiator is clogged, it won’t be able to do its job correctly. A radiator needs good airflow to help keep the engine cool. If the radiator is blocked, the engine will overheat. You might notice that your car’s overheating more often or that the temperature gauge is reading higher than usual. A radiator flush can help remove any build-up in the radiator and restore good airflow. Flushing the radiator also helps remove any corrosion that could be causing problems. It also extends the life of the radiator. If you think your radiator might need a flush, call a mechanic to take care of it.

Ending Note

So, the best way to avoid radiator problems is to have it serviced regularly. Experts at Auffenburg CDJR of Herrin serving Whiteash, IL, recommend bringing your car in for an inspection at least once a year. This way, we can catch any potential issues before they become major repairs. So if it’s been a while since your last radiator service, now might be a good time to schedule an appointment. If you have any concerns, feel free to contact us. We’re always happy to help!

You must familiarize yourself with the gear shift letters and numbers before you take to the open road in your new automated vehicle. Understanding their purposes will enable you to make the most of your automobile. Auffenburg CDJR of Herrin will provide a brief insight into this blog post.

De-coding the letters and numbers:

P – Park

This represents “Park” as a symbol. You may safely leave your car in park and start walking away. Your automobile will also be in the parking brake position when you are in this position.

R – Reverse

This represents the reverse sign. Your automobile drives backward while it is in reverse. Driving in this position requires additional caution since your visibility is limited unless you have a rear camera.

N – Neutral

This is a resting position for your car; think of it as “neutral,” like in between gears.

D – Drive

This is the most commonly used position, meaning “Drive.” Your vehicle will drive forward while in this position. The car automatically changes gears when it is in “drive.” The particular gear employed will vary depending on the vehicle, although most cars will have first, second, third, fourth, and fifth gears.

Low or D1

Your car will drive forward in low gear while in this position. The low gear is used when starting from a stopped position, going down a steep hill, or towing something heavy.

D2

This gear is present on some older autos. It has a higher gear ratio than “Drive,” but else it is similar. It is now uncommon to employ this mode, designed for fuel efficiency.

O/D-Overdrive

The “Overdrive” position is the highest gear position. This position should be used when cruising on the highway or driving at a constant speed.

S-Sports mode

This position is designed to be used when driving under conditions that require more power, such as overtaking or merging.

Knowing how to use your car’s gears is important for a smooth ride and good fuel economy. Now that you know the meaning of automatic gear shift letters and numbers, you can confidently hit the road!

What is Manual Mode?

Manual mode gives you manual control over the gears. In manual mode, you have to shift the gears yourself. The car will not automatically shift for you.

You will need to use the paddle shifters or the gear shift lever to shift gears in manual mode.

How Does the Car Change Gear in ‘D’?

The car changes gears in ‘D’ mode using a hydraulic system and a fluid coupling or torque converter. The automatic transmission is connected to the engine by a torque converter. The torque converter allows the engine to run at a different speed than the transmission.

When you put the car in drive, the automatic transmission will start in first gear. The transmission will then upshift or downshift based on the car’s speed.

Illinois drivers want a trustworthy, reasonably priced auto dealer in their best interests.

That’s where we come in. The goal of Auffenburg CDJR of Herrin, serving Crainville, IL, is to offer drivers the finest choice of new and used vehicles, simple auto financing choices, and high-quality auto maintenance and repairs.

At our dealership, we can handle all of your needs! Explore our inventory of new cars now!

In 2022, people are still relying on cars to get around. Despite predictions of ridesharing and self-driving car services taking over, cars are still a necessary mode of transportation for millions of people. Public transit is transforming with electric and autonomous buses, but so are cars. Cars are here to stay and will always be one of the most significant modes to commute from one point to another.

Are you planning to buy a car equipped with the latest features? Auffenberg CDJR of Herrin is the dealership you should visit. They offer a unique car-buying experience; you can also go there if you need car maintenance or repair services.

This blog will discuss why cars will remain a solid mode of transportation even after all the development in mass transit.

Equipped With Latest Safety Features

One of the reasons cars will continue to rule the roads is that they are equipped with the latest security features. In the past few years, we have seen a significant improvement in car safety features. From airbags to lane departure warning and autonomous braking, cars are now loaded with various features that ensure the safety of car passengers and pedestrians.

More Affordable Than Ever

Another factor that makes cars a popular mode of transportation is their affordability. Thanks to technological advancement and intense competition among manufacturers, cars are now more affordable than ever. There was a time when only rich people could afford to buy cars, but now even middle-class families can buy their dream car without breaking the bank.

Offer More Privacy

Public transport can be pretty crowded during rush hour, which can be quite uncomfortable for introverts or people who value their privacy. You can enjoy complete privacy and peace of mind in your car. You can listen to music, sing along at the top of your voice or even take a nap if you want to.

More Environment-Friendly Than Ever

With the rising concerns over swift climate change and global warming, more and more people are opting for eco-friendly cars that run on battery power. These cars emit zero carbon dioxide and other pollutants, making them much better for the environment.

Top Level Comfort

Gone are the days when cars were uncomfortable and cramped. Nowadays, cars have many features that provide top-level comfort, including heated seats, massaging seats, and even in-car entertainment systems.

A Necessity For Long Distance Travel

While public transport is available for commuting within the city, it is not a viable option for long-distance travel. When you want to take a road trip with your friends or family, cars come in handy. You can pack your belongings in the trunk and hit the road without worrying about changing buses or trains.

While there are many reasons why cars will remain an essential part of our lives in 2022, the bottom line is that they will always be necessary. No matter how convenient other forms of transportation may become, cars will always be an essential part of our lives.

Planning to purchase a vehicle? Auffenberg CDJR of Herrin serving Hurst, IL, is the place to be. You can buy new and used Chrysler or Dodge at excellent prices.

Check our inventory today!

When your automobile window fogs up, it may be annoying. However, to avoid it, you must first understand why vehicle windows fog up in the first place.

Car fog may appear harmless but can produce reduced visibility, leading to deadly accidents.

In this blog post, Auffenburg CDJR of Herrin, serving Carbondale, IL, will discuss why car windows fog up, and we will provide some solutions to help you keep your windows clear.

What Causes Windshield Fog?

Fog on your windshield can occur for a variety of causes, including:

Heat:

The movement of molecules is what causes heat. Warm air holds more moisture than cold air. Water gets heated when it is hot outside, turning into fog rather than a liquid. Warm air also has greater space between molecules, allowing water molecules to fit into this gap.

Surface tension:

Water molecules prefer to connect with other water molecules rather than something like glass, resulting in tiny droplets.

Condensation:

Damp, warm air hitting on your car’s cooler windshield causes condensation. This frequently occurs in the early hours of the morning.

In the summer, the most irritating aspect of automobile window condensation is that the fog is on the outside of the window. This means you’ll have to clean the glass from the outside, and if it begins fogging up while driving, you’ll have to slow down or stop.

Solution for window fogging in summer:

You can remove fog in a variety of methods. And while no one-size-fits-all approach will always work, few are more likely to succeed.

Turn on the wipers on your windshield. You may wipe away the moisture and see considerably clearer by just turning on your front and rear-window wipers. This technique lets you see the front and back windows, but it will not solve the problem with the side windows.

Reduce the temperature of your air conditioner or turn it off entirely. You can prevent fogging by balancing the temperature differential inside and outside your automobile. You can typically avoid condensation by not turning off your air conditioner fully.

Turn off the recirculating air function. Turning off your air recirculation will help you solve the problem once more.

Crank open the window. You can crack open a window to let some of the humidity out. However, this is not suitable in the scorching summer heat.

Use an anti-fogging spray. An anti-fogging car spray is an excellent option. You can apply the mixture to clean, dry, and degreased windows. The method works well, although only one application lasts 10-15 days.

Clean the windows and windshield. You can also clean your car’s window and windshield with an ammonium-based cleaner to prevent fogging.

Always ask your mechanic about leaks and malfunction. Auffenberg Chrysler of Herrin, serving Carbondale, IL, is the place to go if you need servicing for your Mopar vehicle, whether it’s a Chrysler, Dodge, or Ram.

We’ve got you covered, from routine maintenance to extensive repairs, including your engine and gearbox. Our crew can take care of everything your vehicle requires. Schedule your service today!

In the world of car repairs, scratches are one of the most common issues. They can be caused by several things, from stones and bugs on the road to kids or pets playing around in the car. No matter how they get there, scratches can be unsightly and frustrating.

But worry not, Auffenberg CDJR of Herrin can help you fix these car scratches problems in no time. We’re a reputable dealership and service center to help you with your car needs.

In this post, we’ll look at some of the different types of scratches on cars and how to fix them. We’ll also provide a few tips on preventing scratches from happening in the first place. Let’s get started!

Types of Car Scratches

Three main types of scratches can occur on cars:

Clear Coat Scratches

These scratches only affect the clear coat or top layer of paint. They’re usually not very deep and can be buffed out relatively quickly.

Paint Scratches

These scratches go through the clear coat and into the paint itself. They’re more challenging to fix than clear coat scratches but can still be repaired with some effort.

Deep Scratches

These are the most difficult to fix as they damage the paint and the primer beneath it. Deep scratches will require professional repair or a complete repainting of the affected area.

How To Fix Car Scratches?

Now that we know the different types of car scratches, let’s look at how to fix them.

Clear Coat Scratches

These can be fixed with a simple buffing. You’ll need to use a high-speed polisher for best results. Be sure to follow the directions that come with your chosen product.

Paint Scratches

These require a bit more effort to fix. You’ll need to sand down the area around the scratch and then repaint it. Touch-up paint pens are a good option for this type of repair.

Deep Scratches

The best way to fix deep scratches is to take your car to a professional body shop. They’ll be able to properly sand and repaint the affected area, match the paint color, and make your vehicle look good as new.

Tips To Prevent Car Scratches

Here are some tips to prevent car scratches:

1. Keep Your Car Clean: A clean car is a scratch-free car. Regularly washing and waxing your vehicle will help to protect the paint and prevent scratches.
   
   
2. Be Careful When Parking: This one seems obvious, but it’s worth repeating. Parking too close to other cars or objects can result in scratches. Always try to park in a well-lit and well-populated area to minimize the risk of damage to your vehicle.
   
   
3. Use a Car Cover: If you’re storing your car for an extended period, consider using a car cover. It will protect your vehicle from the elements and potential scratches.

No matter the scratch, Auffenberg CDJR of Herrin, serving Pittsburg, IL, can help get your car back to looking its best by fixing car scratches. From deep scratches that require paint repair to surface scratches that can be buffed out, we’ll take care of it for you.

Schedule a service today!