Lowell Auto Repair

How to Deal with Ignition Lock Tumbler Failure in Your Mercedes   Aside from stunning car designs and an amazing driving experience, many drivers also love their Mercedes for its quality engineering and vehicle longevity. However, even with the very best technology the German automotive industry offers, without the proper care, even top-tier luxury vehicles will begin to show the effects of time and use.   In this article we’ll be learning more about the ignition lock tumbler in your Mercedes, as well as the signs and symptoms of potential failure and how to manage any issue with the mechanism, should it fail entirely.   What is the Ignition Lock Tumbler?   Also commonly referred to as the ‘ignition lock cylinder’, your vehicle's’ ignition lock tumbler is the integral mechanism for starting your car. Comprising of the tumbler and key assembly, when ... read more

Finding an effective, reliable auto repair shop can be tricky. How can you tell from one shop to another? ASE Certification is a leading indicator of well-trained, high-quality auto mechanics like those at Mechanics Direct in Lowell, MA. ASE stands for Automotive Service Excellence, a professional certification from The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence in the U.S. and parts of Canada. The non-profit organization protects consumers through the promotion of excellence in vehicle repair through education and testing. Candidates for ASE-Certification must have a two-year degree in automotive repair and at least one year of on-the-job-training, or two years of on-the-job-training, and they must pass rigorous testing. The test can be tough. In fact, one out of every three auto mechanics fail the test the first time around. ASE-Certification must be renewed every five years to keep up with advancing automotive technology.   When you’re looking for top-quali ... read more

Mechanics Direct is chosen time and again by drivers throughout Lowell. Our clients trust our auto mechanics to take excellent care of their vehicle, from bumper to bumper. Because we are well-versed in the field of auto repair, we keep an eye out for issues known to cause your vehicle trouble. For drivers in the Lowell area, brakes tend to wear out quickly. You may be wondering why this is the case. Keep reading, as our team at Mechanics Direct has the answer. Just as people are affected by Massachusetts’ frigid winter, our cars are also severely impacted by this cold season as well. Moisture and freezing temperatures are leading factors in why brakes are wearing out so quickly in Massachusetts. High moisture content in your brake fluid causes longer stopping times.  In addition, moisture can freeze in your vehicle’s brake lines creating blockages that can be detrimental to your safety. Troublesome moisture and cold can also cause your metal brake rotors to rust or ... read more

Your vehicle’s exhaust system is composed mainly of metal which is subject to deterioration caused by moisture, salted roads, plus normal wear and tear. The highly-skilled auto mechanics at Mechanics Direct in Lowell, MA, advise that harsh New England weather often speeds up the deterioration of your exhaust system. Be on the lookout for: Muffler sounding louder than normal Leaking pipes Rust and corrosion Vibration from cracked or broken mounting brackets Rattling or knocking sounds from your muffler Leaking exhaust you can see or smell In addition to poor engine performance, failing exhaust systems often do not meet Massachusetts state emissions standards. Mechanics Direct is a State Registered Emissions Repair Station able to ensure your vehicle meets or exceeds those standards. If you notice any of the above indicators that your exhaust system is in trouble, bring your vehicle to our expert auto mechanics at Mechanics Direct. For best service ... read more

When your Check Engine Light or Warning Light comes on, it could mean anything from Factory-Recommended Service, faulty Engine Performance, Suspension issues or even Brake or Traction Control issues. Thankfully the highly-skilled, ASE-Certified auto mechanics at Mechanics Direct in Lowell, MA, are here to help. We have the factory-level tools and equipment to read your vehicle’s various onboard computer diagnostic systems and accurately pinpoint any problems. When a Check Engine or Warning Light comes on, here are two things you can do: Check your dashboard lights and gauges for indications of low oil pressure or overheating. If you see an immediate problem, pull over to the side of the road and call Mechanics Direct. Slow down if your Check Engine light is blinking or you notice a loss of power or other serious issues. Whatever you do, whenever any of your Warning Lights come on, be sure to have your vehicle looked at by a reputable auto mechanic at a top-of-the-line auto r ... read more