Pete's Automotive Tech Question:

I'm Doug. A few years ago I was driving my '85 powder blue Dodge Ramcharger with about 80,000 miles (129,000 kilometers) on it. I was going up a hill in Sebastopol and heard a noise like a tin can rolling down the road. I looked back and saw my drive shaft bouncing down the hill. I put it in four wheel drive and drove to my Sebastopol mechanic to get it fixed.

What could I have done to prevent that?

Pete's Automotive Tech Answer:
Now that's quite a story. Doug was fortunate that his vehicle had a part-time four wheel drive system that would let him get home without a rear drive shaft.

This “case of the missing drive shaft” highlights the need for regular inspections. Now most drivers in Sebastopol are familiar with recommendations for preventive maintenance services like oil changes and coolant replacement. What you may not know is that there are also recommendations for inspections at various intervals.

By the time a vehicle gets the number of miles on it like Doug had, the owner's manual would have called for of things like checking the suspension, brakes and the drive line. Chances are that such an inspection at Pete's Automotive would have revealed early signs of a worn u-joint, and Doug could have had it fixed before his drive shaft went rattling down the road.

Ask your friendly and knowledgeable pros at Pete's Automotive about the inspections your vehicle should have.

Stop by or give us a call.
707.823.6020

Pete's Automotive
6160 Sebastopol Ave - Hwy 12
Sebastopol, CA 95472

At Pete's Automotive we install quality NAPA replacement parts.