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Subaru Oil Leak Repair in Berkeley, CA

Thu, 27 Nov 2025 08:04:11 GMT

Oil leaks might start small, but they can lead to major headaches if ignored. Many drivers first notice a faint burning smell or small oil spots on the driveway and brush it off as nothing serious. But in reality, that’s your car’s way of warning you that something’s wrong. At Berkeley Bob’s we’ve seen oil leaks escalate into expensive repairs.

Subaru vehicles, with the EJ and FB engines, are known for developing oil leaks as they age. Common sources include worn valve cover gaskets, camshaft seals, and the oil pan gasket. Over time rubber seals harden due to heat and pressure, allowing oil to seep out. In some cases, oil might drip onto hot can create that distinct burning smell many Subaru owners notice. Typical areas that suffer from oil leaks differ between the EJ and FB engines, but the oil leaks continue to be an issue for many Subaru owners.

If you see oil stains under your car, smell burning oil, or notice smoke from under the hood, it’s time to schedule a visit at our Berkeley auto repair facility. Other signs of concern include low oil levels between oil changes, an illuminated oil warning light, or an oily residue around the engine block. Driving with an oil leak can lead to potentially catastrophic engine damage.

At Berkeley Bob’s we take Subaru repairs seriously. Our ASE-certified technicians specialize in diagnosing and repairing oil leaks accurately using OEM quality parts to ensure a long-lasting fix. Whether it’s resealing valve covers, replacing worn gaskets, or cleaning up oil buildup, we handle each repair with care and precision. And for your peace of mind, every service is backed by our 36-month/36,000-mile warranty.

Oil leaks may seem minor, but they can silently damage your Subaru over time. Bringing your car to a trusted shop like Berkeley Bob’s ensures the job is done right. Keep your engine clean, efficient, and protected—if you are concerned about oil leaks or have noticed signs indicating that oil might be leaking, call us at the shop or make an appointment online – we will take great care of your Subaru.

Auto A/C Check in Berkeley, CA

Mon, 14 Jul 2025 10:45:28 GMT

The first heat wave of the year ended in rain, for most of the Bay Area. But the heat will be returning. So, now is a good time to bring your car to Berkeley Bob's to get your summer AC check.

An automotive air conditioning system consists of many components that work together to keep you cool in the summer. At our Berkeley auto repair shop we can perform a thorough inspection and test the temperature and output of your vehicle’s system, determine if your car will benefit from an AC service or if repairs are needed to get your AC cooling properly. If you plan to drive this summer no matter if it’s Bay Area local or a trek into the desert it’s important to make sure the AC is getting as cold as you desire it.

When we think of an automotive AC system, the first thing that comes to mind is refrigerant. However, there are many other components to consider; electronic controls, vent doors, blower, compressor, fan belt, condenser, evaporator, there’s also a type of filter called a receiver dryer, and several hoses and connectors. For the refrigerant to do its job properly it needs to circulate through the system and each component needs to working efficiently for adequate cold air to be sent into the cabin. The most common reason the AC isn’t working is due to low or no refrigerant. In most cases an AC check and charge will have your system pumping refreshing cold air into the passenger compartment restoring your comfort while driving when it’s warm outside. However, the skilled technicians at Berkeley Bob’s are ready to tackle other causes and will dive deeper into the AC system if needed so that you can keep your cool on a hot day.

When you bring your vehicle to Berkeley Bob's you can expect not only friendly customer service, but also nationally ASE certified technicians working on your vehicle. We use original manufacturer or better quality parts, and all the work performed at our auto repair shop carries a 3 year / 36,000 miles warranty.

Berkeley Bob's is a family owned and operated auto repair shop. We work primarily on Asian vehicles along with these select European cars; Volvo, Volkswagen and Audi. Our Berkeley auto repair shop offers comprehensive automotive maintenance and repairservices, and we work by appointment, so if you’re in the market for AC service or other repairs give us a call and we’ll reserve a space or go online to our website to schedule an appointment.

We are looking forward to keeping you moving in comfort.

How can you tell if your cat’s not well?

Fri, 13 Sep 2024 20:14:12 GMT

How can you tell if your cat’s not well?

Here are some tips to help you evaluate your car’s catalytic converter health.

There’s so much talk about catalytic converter theft, most people are aware it’s an expensive part that has marketable elements that thieves are monopolizing on. What really is a catalytic converter? It’s the last active component of a car’s engine. The canister design houses a ceramic core with holds a series of baffles or honeycombs. Those create a large surface area for the exhaust particles; carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons and nitrogen oxide to be catalyzed. The honeycombs contains 3-8 grams Palladium, Platinum and Rhodium which modify the exhaust by pulling atoms off the gas molecules rendering them less harmful.

Besides being stolen, is there a need to replace your catalytic converter? Yes, they do fail and usually it’s a slow death. So, what can you watch out for? First, don’t ignore the check engine light. Get it checked, find out what’s causing it. It may be a minor thing or it could be an important engine or fuel component. If you experience loss of power, the engine can be misfiring. Misfires whether caused by an ignition, air/fuel or mechanical fault can all result in an increase of unburned fuel and or/oxygen in the exhaust and pose a threat to the catalytic converter. Have a professional auto repair check out the misfire, if its fuel related they will test the functionality of the MAP sensor, MAF sensor, O2s sensors, coolant temperature sensor, TPMS sensor and fuel pressure sensors. These components work in tandem to provide proper fuel/air mixture settings for the engine. If the fuel system is incorrectly regulated, your engine can be emitting unburned fuel into the catalyst and sending too many pollutants into the atmosphere. This condition can cause the ceramic core of the converter to overwork, overheat and break down, greatly reducing the amount of pollutants it can process. Have a look at your service history. Keep up with spark plug replacement, usually only needed every 50,000 miles or approximately every 5 years. It’s important because worn spark plugs can cause the engine to misfire as well.

Listen to your engine. Does it sound different? Is it louder or have a distinctive rattling noise when started? A leak in the exhaust system can result in an increase of oxygen in the converter and an incorrect O2 sensor reading. Watch for road debris, as this could bounce up and damage the exhaust system, creating a blockage and excessive back pressure.

These are the signs to watch for:

Check engine light on
Loss of power
Abnormal noises such as:
Exhaust leaks
Rattling
Squealing or whistling
Unusual odors such as:
Fuel smell
Sulfur smell
Road debris hit the body of the car

If you notice something out of the ordinary with your vehicle, consult an automotive professional as soon as possible, Berkeley Bob’s is just a phone call away and can put your mind at ease.

Images courtesy of r/dalle2

Design A Hot Wheel??

Mon, 26 Feb 2024 13:31:06 GMT

You may have an opportunity to do so. Polestar, a division of Volvo, is partnering with Hot Wheels to offer another design contest for 2024. Their mission statement “change needs to happen” encourages change and inspiration to bring about a more sustainable future.

The finalist(s) will be chosen by a panel of designers and will then work with a team from Polestar to come up with the final design for the concept car which will be made into a 1/64 scale model by Hot Wheels and distributed in stores worldwide.

Polestar has set the guidelines for entrants to be as imaginative as possible, incorporating performance with design. Also bearing in mind the design will need to be converted into the toy without too much difficulty.

Participants can be anyone, whether they are studying design or actually working in the field. Last year’s winner(s) spent six months collaborating, two of them creating the exterior and one the interior design. The completed concept car, called Synergy, was displayed at the Munich Auto Show and in California at one of the Hot Wheel’s Legends Tour stops.

The winner along with the privilege of having their design made into a Hot Wheel toy will also receive a tablet to aid them in future design efforts and exclusive merchandise.

Want more details: https://www.polestar.com/global/polestar-design-contest/2024/

Image from Mac Pytech

What if you don’t change your cabin filter?

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 08:48:52 GMT

1. What is a cabin filter?

The cabin filter is a different filter than the engine air filter. Both have similar construction but do very different things. While cabin filters vary depending on car manufacturer most have either a cardboard or plastic form that holds an accordion of folded paper impregnated with fiber or charcoal.

2. How does it work?

The cabin filter filters the air coming from outside the vehicle into the passenger compartment. When air passes into the cabin filter, it’s pleats trap debris and contaminants like dust and pollen and prevent it from entering into the vehicle via air ducts and vents.

3. What type of debris does the cabin filter stop?

A clean cabin filter will prevent dust, dirt, smoke, smog, pollen, mold spores and exhaust gases from entering the cabin through the heating, ventilation and air conditioning system. It also stops rodent droppings, bugs and leaves from entering the cabin.

4. What can happen if your cabin filter is dirty?

The debris that the cabin filter traps eventually builds up to a point where it is no longer working efficiently and can prevent air flow into the cabin.

5. Are there risks if you don’t replace a dirty cabin filter?

Yes. The most common risk is allergens entering the cabin, raising allergy and breathing concerns amongst passengers. Heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems will work harder trying to push air through a clogged cabin filter and ultimately can cause blower fan motor to overheat and fail. In winter months the windows won’t defog or defog slowly because of the reduced air flow coming through the vents. A musty smell coming from the air vents especially when the defrost or air conditioning is on. The smell can also indicate mold is present, which occurs when moisture due to normal temperature changes builds up inside the air vents and ducting because the air flow has been reduced or blocked by a dirty cabin filter.

6. How often should it be replaced?

When it’s dirty obviously, but most car manufacturers suggest every 15,000 miles. If you commute or drive in a busy, air polluted metropolitan area your cabin filter will need replacement every 8,000 to 10,000 miles. And if you travel on dusty or dirt roads the cabin filter will need replacement even more often.

7. Is it hard to replace?

Yes, it can be on some vehicles. Most of the time you will find the cabin filter is located under the vehicle dash or behind the glove box on the passenger side making it hard to access. No special tools are needed but part of the under dash needs to be removed to gain access to the filter. Once the filter is in sight it can be awkward to remove, sometimes they are stuck in place, this is where patience and knowledge are handy. Be careful not to break clips or body panels when doing it yourself.

A FEW SIMPLE DIY MAINTENANCE TASKS

Sat, 11 Nov 2023 12:45:30 GMT

A few simple DIYMaintenance Tasks

Vehicle owners may be tempted to forego maintenance because they think it’s expensive and not necessary.However, regular maintenance is necessary because it can help prevent more expensive repairs and breakdowns in the future.Not changing the oil regularly can lead to premature engine wear and failure or cause your car to run poorly.

On occasion we have a customer who wants to do some of their car maintenance themselves.There is no reason a skilled and enthused person shouldn’t give some service items on their vehicle a try.Performing some of the basic service items can save money if done correctly of course.

Safety first, only physically fit individuals should attempt any maintenance item that requires them to bend over the engine compartment, squat by the wheel for more than a minute or two or climb under the vehicle.And always, always use jack stands properly if raising the car up with a service jack.Never use an old jack.Place the jack stands in the proper locations under the body and park the vehicle on level pavement. Important for personal safety is protective gear like safety goggles, ear protection and rubber gloves are all essential when working on an automobile, so don’t forget to use them.

Below is a list of several maintenance jobs skilled DIYers may be able to handle on their own:

1.Replace wiper blades

When wiper blades are worn they can greatly reduce visibility when it’s raining or snowing and even on cold mornings when the windshield is covered with dew.

Choose a quality wiper blade as they are made with high quality rubber, clean better and usually last longer.Follow the instructions that come with the blades.It’s easier to fit a complete blade replacement as opposed to an insert.Inserts, which are just the rubber piece are tricky to fit and must be matched to the type of blade. Whereas different brand blades can be used without problem.

2.Replace air filter

An engine air filter should be checked annually and if your car is driven the national average of 12,000 miles a year it will need to be replaced at that time.If you drive off road or in sandy areas the filter should be checked every 5,000 miles.

3.Check spare tire

A spare tire should be in good working condition since it’s mainly used in an emergency after an unanticipated tire blow out.It’s usually an out of sight, out of mind situation.Access to the spare tire should be something you familiarize yourself with before you need to use it.Typically they are located in the trunk under the carpeted floor panel, on the outside of the tailgate or can be located under the rear of the vehicle.Look around and see where it is located.Once you’ve gained access to the tire, look at the sidewall surface for cracking or flaking rubber which is a sign of dry rot and the tire must then be replaced.Also check the tire pressure in the tire, over a period of years it may have gone flat.

4.Replace headlamp bulbs

Some headlamp bulbs are easy to replace.Make sure to buy the correct bulb beforehand.Access the headlamp bulb holder from the engine compartment; remove the electrical connector from the back of the headlamp.On occasion they can be difficult to remove.Use a rag or towel when gripping the bulb, twist to free it from the holder.Remember when installing the new bulb, to not make direct contact with your fingers as the oils in our skin may shorten the life of the new bulb.

Warning: Some vehicles will require the battery be removed to gain access to the headlamp.On these models we don’t recommend DIYers attempt to replace them as there is a risk of damaging electronic parts if the battery is not removed and reinstalled properly.The same goes for HID (high intensity discharge) headlight bulbs.We advise a professional replace them, as these systems run on high voltage electricity and impose a risk of electrocution if not handled correctly.

5.Replace engine oil and filter

Not as easy a DIY service as the other items listed but for a savvy, physically fit person it’s doable.Laying on the ground one must be able to exert some force to get the oil filter and the drain plug loose.Some special tools are needed; a jack, jack stands, oil filter wrench, drain pan and standard wrench the size of the drain plug.All supplies should be bought in advance.Use quality oil the weight recommended by the manufacturer, a genuine or better oil filter and don’t forget the drain plug gasket if applicable because they are not reusable.Be extra vigilant when tightening both drain plug and oil filter, leaks can lead to dangerously low engine oil level and result in engine damage.Care also must be taken when adding the oil, not to over or under fill the engine.

Note: One significant difference of doing your own oil change or having a reputable shop do an oil maintenance service is a professional technician can spot concerns with the vehicle that a DIY would find hard to interpret or see when working on the ground.Concerns like a small coolant leak, a broken brake part or a worn suspension component, the latter having to be measured and tested because wear is not always visible, could negatively impact the car if not noticed and corrected.

Engine Air Filter

Wed, 08 Nov 2023 11:38:32 GMT

1. What is an engine air filter?

The engine air filter is a rectangular or square shaped rubber, plastic or cardboard frame that contains a pleated paper accordion. The paper has fiber or cloth filaments to help prevent contaminants from penetrating it's surface. The contaminants are dust, dirt, road debris, insects and other air borne material from entering the engine’s combustion chamber and intake manifold.

2. How does it work?

It works by filtering the air going into the engine intake manifold. The paper accordion traps contaminants from entering the engine. These contaminants are dust, dirt, pollen, bugs, leaves, other foliage and debris that floats in our surface air.

3. What happens if I drive with a dirty or clogged filter?

It has been suggested it may negatively affect the cars gas mileage. Recent tests have disproved this theory as modern fuel controls adapt well. What does happen is the engine performance is reduced. When the intake manifold received less air due to a dirty engine air filter the fuel system computer cuts back on the amount of fuel sent to the manifold. This reduction varies amongst different car manufacturers and models. But overall the power (acceleration) could be reduced by almost 15% in some models.

4. How often should the air filter be replaced?

Annually we suggest the engine air filter be checked and replaced if dirty. If the car is not driven the national average of 12,000 miles a year, the filter may be OK. If the car is driven in areas with a lot of dust, pollen, smoke or other air born debris the filter will likely get dirtier quicker and have to be change more frequently. But regardless of the miles driven the engine air filter should be examined annually.

5. Is it hard to replace an air filter?

Generally speaking, no, the air filter is usually on top of the engine and access is relatively easy. It does not require special tools but the air filter housing is usually sealed with rubber gaskets and held together with screws or plastic clips. The clips can be brittle due to heat transfer from the engine and can break easily.

APPETITE FOR EVS SPURS GROWTH OF NEW BUSINESSES IN THE US

Tue, 24 Oct 2023 12:49:16 GMT

The United States is hot on building a new industry; Lithium Car Batteries production.With almost every auto manufacturer offering an electric vehicle line up, the need for batteries in on a huge scale increase.Battery manufacturing plants are being built in several states creating what has been dubbed as the “Battery Belt”.From Michigan down to Georgia, battery factories have popped up – bringing with them an influx of cash and jobs. Employment in states with little industry prior to the EV movement is now blossoming. Current employment figures for the US EV battery industry is estimated to be 70,000, with workers based in Michigan, Ohio, Indiana, Kentucky, Tennessee, North Carolina, South Carolina and Georgia.

Ironically, the states that have seen an economic boost from the EV battery plants have been politically conservative states which have opposed climate legislation. However, no one is denying the 90 million dollar investment that has been made by companies like the South Korean SK On, part of conglomerate SK Group built a gigantic plant in Commerce, Georgia the size of 13 football fields to produce EV batteries.

The move to manufacture EV batteries in the US, providing a local source for the EV power train is a good one.It not only brings jobs to areas hard hit by the loss of production plants and other facilities in that part of the country but also saves US car makers a bundle not having to ship the heavy EV batteries from China or Korea.The average weight of an EV battery is between 1,000 and 1,700 pounds.

Large EV battery recycling plants are coming online as well.Their aim is to extract metals like nickel, cobalt and lithium, reduce reliance on mining and create high value engineering material from the recycled batteries.The leader, Ascend Elements started out in Worchster, MA and has a recycling plant in Covington, Georgia which increased employment by 200% in 2022.Ascend Elements received two grants totaling $480 million grant from the US Department of Energy in late 2022 and have plans to build a $65 million, 100,000 square foot lithium-ion battery recycling facility in Hopkinsville, Kentucky. Partnering with SK Ecoplant and their recycling subsidiary TES, the goal is to start with a mixed stream of spent lithium ion batteries and end with a production of finished battery ready cathode active material. The Hopkinsville facility hopes to disassemble and shred approximately 56,000 batteries a year and has landed a deal to supply cathode active material for EV batteries to Honda America.

As these new plants and facilities spring up, opening employment options in towns with little opportunity some are supplying car manufacturers with a local source for EV batteries, others returning 100% of battery active material back into the production of new batteries and creating a closed loop battery economy.The future’s bright and looking toward the clean energy revolution.

WHAT’S THE SHELF LIFE OF GASOLINE?

Wed, 18 Oct 2023 12:53:05 GMT

What’s the shelf life of Gasoline?

Curiously, not much thought is given to how long gasoline lasts. Gas pumps show us the price per gallon but have you ever noticed a “best when used before” date on the pump next to the octane rating?You probably haven’t, since it doesn’t exist.However, there is an expiration date on gas.So how do we determine what that is?Just how long does gas last and what happens if it’s met its expiration date?

One component (which are many) of gasoline is Ethanol.It’s a major additive and accounts for up to 10% of the volume.Ethanol is hydrophilic, this means it likes water and draws water in through moist, humid environments; basements, sheds, semi-outdoor spaces like car ports or anywhere near bodies of water like lakes, streams or oceans.If gasoline is stored in a humid area, or actually most areas it absorbs water.In large amounts it becomes a problem, and can prevent a car from starting and can damage internal fuel and engine parts.

Other compounds in gasoline, commonly referred to as “light ends”, are light hydrocarbons that volatize and evaporate.It’s these compounds which start the engine.Over time these compounds get evaporated out and can be one the reasons a car with old gasoline won’t start.

The last but most serious condition of old gasoline is oxidation.

Hydrocarbons called olefins have a chemical structure which particularly attracts oxygen.Once this happens the gasoline develops a gum like film.When gasoline sits for a period of time the film eventually solidifies into a gum-like polymer.These polymers don’t burn well, can gum up important fuel system components and can cause damage to the engine as well.

So how can you tell if gasoline is old and has gone bad?Here are three tips:

Smell it; if it’s bad it will smell like rotten milk or a moldy gym sock.
Check the color; it should have a greenish yellow appearance not a muddy orange tint.
If the gasoline is stored outside your vehicle you will be able to spot the gum build-up.

All in all, gasoline should last about 6 months if kept in ideal conditions and could exceed that time by double if a fuel stabilizer is used.

HYUNDAI/KIA TO RESOLVE CLASS ACTION SUIT

Thu, 14 Sep 2023 12:56:11 GMT

Hyundai/Kia to Resolve Class Action Suit

An agreement has been reached in the consumer class action litigation against Hyundai and Kia auto manufacturers.This comes as many Kia and Hyundai car owners had their vehicles stolen, the result of inadequate ignition security.All the cars involved did not have a push button ignition or an immobilizing anti-theft device.These standard security measures are commonplace on vehicle manufactured by other car makers and are to prevent such heists.

Following a historically low year of thefts for Hyundai and Kia autos, a “challenge” video went viral describing how to quickly break into and steal 2011-2022 year vehicles caused a giant spike in thefts.The repair demand for the recovered vehicles caused not only a unprecedented need for ignition parts which left manufacturers scrambling to fill their shelves but also had the auto makers scrambling to improve security measures. There currently is a six month backorder for Kia and some Hyundai ignition replacement parts.

The agreement, depending on how many customers elect to participate is valued around $200 million.The compensation customers will receive is for incurred theft-related vehicle losses or damage not covered by insurance, reimbursement for insurance deductibles, increased premiums and other theft related losses.

Hyundai Motor North America’s chief legal officer reassured customers their security is a top priority, and the continuing software upgrade installations and steering wheel lock distributions will help prevent thefts.They are also offering insurance options for those who have had difficulty securing and sustaining coverage.

As part of the settlement, an eligible vehicle will automatically have its software upgraded during service and maintenance appointments at the dealership.For the vehicles that cannot accept a software upgrade, the agreement will provide reimbursement of up to $300 for the purchase of anti-theft devices. Hyundai and Kia are also providing consumers with a free steering wheel locks either through local law enforcement or direct shipment.

The free anti-theft software upgrade modifies some Hyundai and Kia vehicles equipped with standard turn key to start ignition systems and will include an ignition kill feature so the vehicles cannot be started when subjected to the method of theft popularized on social media channels. All Hyundai and Kia’s with a manufacturer date of November 2021 or later come standard with an immobilizer device in the ignition system and are not able to be easily stolen like the previous years were.

Approximately 9 million Kia and Hyundai vehicles are included in the settlement.To see if your vehicle may be covered, follow the below links:

Kia: https://ksupport.kiausa.com/ConsumerAffairs/SWLD or at www.kia.com under the owner’s portal, contact us section.

Hyundai: HyundaiAntiTheft.com Most Hyundai customers have been notified, however Hyundai is paying for targeted digital media ads to drive the remaining affected customer to their website for more information.

SUBARU A/C (AIR CONDITIONING) MAINTENANCE AND REPAIR IN BERKELEY, CA

Fri, 04 Aug 2023 12:59:13 GMT

When there's a heat wave and your Subaru's air conditioning is not performing atit’speak, many people are quick to get it repaired to avoid driving in sweltering conditions. At Berkeley Bob’s we offer comprehensive Subaru a/c maintenance and repairs.

A properly functioning air conditioningsystem can make a significant difference in your daily commuteon hot and even cold wet days, because the air conditioner not only cools the air on hot days but is used by the cars defroster to help defog the windshield quickly.If your Subaru A/C isn't blowing any air, the airflow is weak, your windshield is fogging or you notice an unusual smell it's important not to hesitate to have it inspected.

Modern Air conditioning systems can be very complex, most modern cars have a complete Climate Control Systemandthe air conditioner is just a small part of it.So when problems arise it requires the expertise of a skilled technician.

The climate control system in your Subaru consists of multiple parts, from the climate control computer to a dual sides duct system that allows both the driver and passenger to be able to choose different temperatures at the same time. The Subaru’s Climate control system is designed to run as efficiently as possible, to minimize the amount of energy taken from the engine whenitsrunning. TheA/Ccompressor is belt driven so when the driver turns on the A/Cthe compressor will engage and draw power from the engine., thuseffectsenginehorsepower output and the fuel mileage.

Symptoms You Need Subaru AC Repair

Here are some indications that it's time to have your Subaru's A/C checked and repaired:

● Lack ofCooling. If the airflow appears to be fine but the air blowing out is not as cold as it should be, there may be several reasons for this. The most common cause is related to the refrigerantwhich circulates throughout the system. A leak, even a small one in any of the A/Csystem components, o rings, pipes or fittings will allow the refrigerant to leak out.

● Weak Airflow. If the air is still cool, but the airflow is inadequate,issuesin the climate control ducting system or a clogged cabin filtercould be causing this problem.

● Foul smells coming from air ducts. On start up you may experience a bad odor inside the car that smells like dirty gym socks. Ifthathappensthe A/C system should be professionally disinfected.

Foul or moldy smells coming from your cars air ducts is one of the most common problems that comesup in modern climate control systems.Moldy smells usually come from stagnate moisture that has not drained out of the a/c evaporator and commonly iscaused by a clogged evaporator drain tube.Once mold is allowed to grow inside the cars a/c system it will need to be cleaned and disinfected by a professional.

If you encounter any of these issues with your Subaru's A/Coperationit is advisable to have it promptlyinspected by a qualified technician. They cancheck and test the system, find theproblem and perform the necessary repairs to restore optimal cooling performance to your Subaru.

Even if youaren’t experiencing problems it’s important to have your Subaru’s A/C system tested annually to prevent inadequateoperation when you need it the most. At Berkeley Bob’s we recommendannualA/C system maintenance, such as having anA/Crefrigerantrefill performedand replacing the cabin filter.So,if your SubaruhasanA/Cproblem or just needsmaintenance,the technicians atBerkeley Bob’shave the necessary tools and equipment and are ready to help, you can make an online appointment or simply give us a call.

SUBARU REPAIR IN BERKELEY, CA

Mon, 17 Jul 2023 13:05:48 GMT

While Subaru is known for producing reliable cars, it is inevitable at some point in ownership you will be faced with an issue that will require professional advice and if needed move forward with a Subaru repair. Today’s cars are complex machines with intertwined systems, leading to the possibility for a part to break and cause a problem for the entire car. These issues can range from minor inconveniences to complete immobilization. Below are some of the most common Subaru repairs and maintenance items owners might have to deal with. At Berkeley Bob’s we are Subaru specialists able to handle most problems and repairs your Subaru may face.

Common Subaru Repairs:

Head Gaskets and Oil Leaks. Subaru vehicles have a history of head gasket issues, particularly in older models. The head gasket is a critical engine component that seals the cylinder head to the engine block. When it fails it generally leads to oil leakage and loss of performance. Under extreme circumstances bad head gaskets can cause coolant leaks and overheating. Oil leakage in Subarus is almost always caused by blown head gaskets.Unlike other cars it’s very unusual for oil leaks to develop in other areas like the oil pan, valve cover gaskets and camshaft seals. Regular inspection and prevention of oil leaks is essential for preserving engine health and preventing further damage.
Brake Issues. Replacing brake pads or rotors is a common repair and is required on most vehicles every 30,000 – 40,000 miles. Routine maintenance for all car owners includes brake pad replacement. Because Subaru owners tend to enjoy outdoor activities their cars may be taken off road and driven in wet, snowy or in dry, dusty debris ridden conditions. These extreme driving conditions present more hazards for the braking system.It is crucial to have the entire brake system inspected once a year regardless of where you drive and to notify your auto service professional immediately of any noises while braking or change in stopping efficiency.It’s not recommended to postpone any brake repairs as an inefficient braking system can pose a significant danger.
Suspension Repair. Subarus are known for their handling this is due to the all-wheel-drive system and suspension design. Once again because these cars are a popular choice for outdoor enthusiasts they are likely driven onto dirt, gravel or sand roads at times.While these vehicles are designed for this type of driving it does cause premature wear on suspension components such as tires, tie rods, control arms and bushings, struts and shocks.The entire suspension should be inspected once a year to confirm the health and continued performance of these components.
Wheel Bearings.Another suspension item these are common components that fail on Subarus.Rear Wheel Bearings allow the wheels to rotate smoothly and balance the gravitational forces when braking, accelerating and cornering.The bearings are sealed and lose their lubrication, once this happens they begin to heat up and start making a growling noise.Wheel bearings are critical suspension components and they should be replaced if they are worn to prevent a break down on the road. Berkeley Bob’s can inspect and test wheel bearings during a routine service to verify they’re working properly.
All-Wheel Drive and Transmission. Cars equipped with all-wheel drive have more complex drive trains than 2 wheel drive vehicles.In addition to the transmission there is a transfer case (all wheel drive unit) along with the differential.These three components should be tested and inspected annually for any leakage or damage.In addition they require maintenance every few years which involves replacing the synthetic fluids that lubricate all the internal working parts.If not done within the factory recommended interval the worn fluid may not provide protection against wear and can damage these expensive components.
A/C Repair. Another complex system, Subaru A/C is a hybrid of electrical, mechanical and computer operated systems.They must work in tandem to consistently bring cold air into the passenger compartment.Many drivers don’t recognize a problem until they either don’t have any air or have only hot air coming through the vents. Most common problems are leakage within the system.At Berkeley Bob’s we have the technology and equipment to test and repair your Subaru A/C system.Even if your A/C is still working, it is recommended to have the system tested annually to keep you cool behind the wheel.

While Subaru vehicles are very reliable, it's important for owners to be aware of these common repairs and address them promptly to maintain the vehicle's performance and safety. Call us at (510) 548-7140 for an appointment or if you are an existing customer book online at berkeleybobs.com.

NATIONAL AUTOMOTIVE PROFESSIONAL CERTIFICATION GROUP PARTNERS WITH FAMOUS WOMAN TECHNICIAN

Tue, 27 Jun 2023 13:08:23 GMT

National Automotive Professional Certification Group partners with famous woman technician

BogiLateiner, American auto technician, small business owner, technical educator and reality television personality and star of “All GirlsGarage”has been contracted by ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) to help promote testing and attract more people to join the industry.

The partnership is scheduled to launch in July at the ASE Training Conference in North Carolina. Conference attendees are expected to include high school and college instructors and will have the opportunity to meetLateinerat the event.

Lateinerhas 10years experienceworking as an industry management instructor and co-creator of “Girl Gang Garage”a program that trains women looking to enter the automotive industry. A very busy lady indeed, in addition to hosting her television showLateineralso produces a podcast called “With her Two Hands”.

She is a huge promoter of women in automotive repair,consistently recruiting and recognizing women for their accomplishments within the industry.So it’s only natural she would partner with ASE, a professionalcertification group that certifies professionals and shops in automotive repair.They started 50 years ago in response to consumers who needed to distinguish between potentially incompetent and competent auto technicians.

MsLateineris a big fan of ASEand theirtesting and sees the certifications as a kind of doctorate degree in automotive repair. She also thinks her customers appreciateher shopseffortto continue their educationanda way to show their pride intheir craft. She is honored to help spread the word about all ASE does tohelpshape the industry and you can bet her focus will be to encourage more female automotive talent to seek ASE certification.

FOURTH LARGEST AUTOMAKER SEEKS ECO-FRIENDLY ALTERNATIVE TO LITHIUM-ION BATTERIES

Thu, 15 Jun 2023 13:10:33 GMT

Fourth largest automaker seeks eco-friendly alternative to lithium-ion batteries

Stellantis, a multinational company between Italian conglomerate Fiat Chrysler and French PSA group responsible for sales of 16 different car brands including Dodge, Jeep, Ram and Chrysler is looking to invest in Silicon Valley based company, Lyten whose plan is to produce lithium-sulfur EV batteries.If successful this would eliminate the need for cobalt, nickel and manganese in the production of EV batteries.Instead they would be made with sulfur which could be domestically sourced eliminating the need to import from countries like Ukraine and China.

Another plus is the sulfur-lithium batteries are estimated to have a carbon footprint 60% lower than the best lithium-ion batteries on the market today and can be manufactured in the same factories as well.Stellantis is hoping to be in on the ground floor when these batteries are developed by Lyten.

This is great news for the world.As demand for EV cars which run a lithium battery as opposed to a fossil fuel powered engine increased by 65% from 2021 to 2022, with sales expected to top 14 million worldwide in 2023.This figure is 18% of car sales and represents a 35% increase from year to year.

VOLVO’S POLESTAR FIRST TO GET YOUTUBE

Sun, 21 May 2023 13:13:20 GMT

Volvo’s Polestar first to get YouTube

Google announced in early May, all cars with “Google built in” will have YouTube available on their screens beginning with Volvo’s electric division Polestar. According to the company YouTube will only be available while parked and for passenger use.The ability to access YouTube directly from the front dash display screen increases the convenience.Cars will also be equipped with rear seat screens for backseat passenger entertainment and enjoyment.

However, YouTube in cars is not new.Previously many newer vehicles could access YouTube through Android Auto, an app that runs through an android phone which then communicates wirelessly with the vehicle and allows the driver to access most of their phone apps through the car display.“Google built in” will now provide access to Google apps without the use of a phone.The new system is styled on a Linux-run open base mobile operating system and Google modified it to be used in cars without the use of Smart phones or tablets.

Volvo’s all electric Polestar 2 was the first vehicle to have “Google Built-in”and in early 2023 the automaker said the Polestar 3 will have Google’s HD mapping solution therefore the YouTube launch was the next logical step.

“BIG BROTHER” TESLA’S IS WATCHING

Sun, 21 May 2023 13:11:56 GMT

“Big Brother” Tesla’s is watching

Tesla is accused of violating privacy concerns linked with their car’s surveillance cameras.

In a lawsuit filed by vzbv (The Federation of German Consumer Organizations)in Berlin last July accuses Tesla misled consumers by not informing them by advertising their cars owners may be violating privacy data protection laws if the “sentry” mode feature which activates surveillance cameras in their cars was used in public areas to capture images and video of passers-by without their knowledge.Berlin’s data protection agency said the person driving the car would be responsible for turning off the cameras in public spaces or risk prosecution.Furthermore responsibility would extend to the carmaker if those images were transmitted to and stored by Tesla.

Then earlier this year Tesla assured the public their privacy was being upheld among rumors their electric car owner’s camera footage was shared among its employees in group chats from 2019 – 2022.Tesla tells its customers their privacy “is and will always be enormously important to us”.Leaves us to question, “But in which way?”.

WHAT’S A DVI (DIGITAL VEHICLE INSPECTION)?

Tue, 11 Apr 2023 13:14:57 GMT

What’s A DVI (Digital Vehicle Inspection)?

Now that Berkeley Bob’s has added this beneficial service to all of our oil maintenance services, we’d like our clients to know more about them.So what is a digital vehicle inspection aka DVI?It is a 23 point vehicle inspection that digitally documents in a variety of ways any areas of concern.Depending on what the technician notices, they will either mark the item green (tests good, no problem), yellow (monitor and recheck later) or red (needs attention and repair).The technician can expand on any inspected item by creating detailed notes next to the line item.These notes can include basic information such as: “timing belt sticker missing” or “spark plugs due by mileage” or more pressing issues like “brake pads are worn to metal backing plate” or “water pump shows signs of leakage”.The notes sometimes mention recent work, noting new components or areas that have been serviced.This new digital format allows the techs to also take and store photos or videos of areas or components on your vehicle that need attention or should be monitored.

The DVI makes it easier to understand “mechanic talk” because we are able to show videos and photos of the car’s concerns.And because these notes are linked to the client’s history file they are available for reference whenever needed.They can be emailed to the clients as well.As is our policy, we send these reports along with any notes, videos and photos when applicable, to the clients, so they may review our findings first hand.From there our service writer follows up with a phone call to address questions concerning the inspection results and prepare a repair plan if needed.Choosing a garage that provides a DVI will elevate and simplify your auto repair experience.Because the service is new, many auto garages don’t perform digital vehicle inspections, but they are becoming the norm for premier service and repair facilities.

HONDA ELECTRICAL REPAIRS

Wed, 26 Oct 2022 13:22:52 GMT

One might be surprised by the electronic complexity of the average Honda. With plenty of modern-day luxuries found within your Honda, an issue with the electrical system can be disastrous for any owner.

With how intricate the average car’s electronic system is, diagnosing and repairing any issues will be difficult for anyone who isn’t a trained technician. Problems can range in severity, from simply dim headlights all the way up to preventing your car from starting.

Parts Of A Honda Electrical System

Your Honda’s electrical system is made up of the following components.

Battery. Your battery stores electrical energy that is used for your starter motor, ignition system, and lights. If your battery doesn’t have enough stored energy you will have issues starting your Honda, or it may not start at all. Your battery is something that will have to be replaced every few years, so take note if you’re having issues starting your Honda.
Starter Motor. To start your engine, a small motor is required to crank the engine over to get it going. Typically this motor will be electric and requires a significant amount of energy from your battery. If your battery can’t provide enough power, or your starter motor is damaged, your Honda won’t start.
Alternator. Once your engine starts, it takes over the duty of providing energy for the car from your battery. Along with providing power for all the accessory systems such as the radio and air conditioning, the engine will also recharge your battery so that it has enough power to start the car next time. The alternator is responsible for converting the mechanical energy of the engine into electrical energy. An issue with the alternator could mean that your Honda won’t receive any power at all.
Wiring. Wires are responsible for delivering power and information to all the various systems in your Honda. If a wire gets damaged, then it may prevent various features in your Honda from working.

When To Have A Honda Electrical Systems Diagnostics and Repair

The most common warning signs that there may be an issue with your electrical system pertain to your Honda’s lighting, and how easy it is to start.

If your Honda is taking longer to start than normal or doesn’t start at all chances are good that there may be an issue with your battery or starter motor. Likewise if the lighting is dimmer than usual whether it be your headlights or interior lights it could once again point to an issue with the electrical system. Additionally, if you notice that certain functions are no longer working, such as the radio or power windows, then don’t hesitate to contact Berkeley Bobs – your local Honda repair shop.

Performing a Honda electrical systems diagnostics and repair requires specialized tools and a trained specialist. At Berkeley Bob’s we have been maintaining and repairing Honda vehicles for decades, and our technicians have the latest digital diagnostic tools to work on your Honda.

HONDA SUSPENSION REPAIR

Thu, 20 Oct 2022 13:47:22 GMT

Your Honda’s suspension is responsible for ensuring that your ride is as smooth as it can be. A typical Honda suspension consists of both a strut and spring. These components allow the car to stay level even if the road itself is bumpy. The struts function to dampen the springs and prevent the vehicle from bouncing constantly after hitting a bump.

The suspension is crucial to not only the ride comfort of your Honda but also its overall handling and control. A Honda suspension repair should be conducted if you have noticed that your ride quality has decreased and if you find that you don’t have as much control over the vehicle as you once did.

Honda Suspension Repair Reasons

Bumpy Ride. After driving your Honda, you will have undoubtedly are accustomed to its smooth ride. That’s why when road trips become bumpy, it’s easy to notice the difference in ride quality. If you are finding your daily drive to be filled with more bounce along the way, a Honda suspension repair may be in order. This symptom is indicative of a worn strut and/or shock and can be tested on your own. With the car parked, push down on the hood and take note of how much the car bounces when you let go. If it bounces more than three or four times, there may be an issue with your suspension.
Uneven Ride Height. If you notice your Honda is sagging to one side, there is a good chance that one of your shocks has been worn or damaged and can no longer support the weight of the car fully. This not only results in an uneven ride but it can also affect how responsive your Honda is to your steering inputs and during panic stops.
Excessive Leaning. When your suspension starts to have issues, you will notice that your vehicle will lean more during sharp, fast cornering like exiting the highway.It can also be noticeable during fast acceleration or braking when the car's body will lean more due to a compromised suspension.

Honda Repair in Berkeley, California

Mon, 17 Oct 2022 13:46:06 GMT

While Honda makes reliable cars, it is inevitable that some owners will be unfortunate enough to face some issues with their Honda during their ownership. At Berkeley Bob’s we offer complete Honda care. While cars have become better adapted for their use on the road, easier for the driver to operate and increased reliability at the same time they have become highly complex machines with dozens of computerized controls.When they fail, your Honda can run up against a myriad of potential problems.

These issues can range from minor inconveniences to concerns that are completely immobilizing. Below are some of the most common Honda repairs that you may encounter.

Common Honda Repairs

Transmission Issues. Issues with the transmission will be hard to ignore and are very apparent. Typical issues with the transmission will result in jerky shifts between gears that will prevent the car from accelerating smoothly. Other erratic shifts might result in the car suddenly decelerating.
Leaks. Your Honda’s engine is comprised of a multitude of tubes, pipes, seals and o-rings amongst other things. As age and mileage accumulate, these components can fail and cause your engine’s fluids to leak necessitating a replacement.
Brake Issues. It is inevitable that you will need to replace your brake pads and rotors after certain amount of miles which vary due to driving conditions. Changing your brake pads is part of routine maintenance which every car owner will go through. It’s imperative that you have your Honda’s brakes inspected annually.Don’t put off these repairs as having a car that stops efficiently is important.
Electrical Issues. Your Honda’s electric system is complex and plays a part in almost every aspect of your car. As such, electrical issues can result in rather annoying issues such as your power windows not working or your climate control system malfunctioning. However, the issues can be more serious and prevent your car from starting at all. It’s difficult to diagnose and repair an electrical issue, so be sure to contact a qualified technician.
Water Pump Failure. The water pump is a critical engine component that is responsible for pumping coolant through your engine. When this pump fails it can result in your motor overheating.Always have your Honda’s cooling system inspected regularly to spot issues with the water pump before it fails.

So if your Honda needs a bit of tender, loving care, call our Berkeley auto repair shop and we will be happy to make an appointment that fits your schedule.

Honda AC Refill in Berkeley, CA

Tue, 04 Oct 2022 13:45:01 GMT

An A/C that no longer blows as cold as it once used to can be a nightmare for anyone driving in warmer climates. While there can be a whole host of issues that can result in your Honda’s air conditioning performing worse than it should be sometimes all you may need is a Honda A/C refill or recharge.

Components of a Honda AC

Before going into what an a/c refill or recharge entails, it’s good to have a basic understanding of how your Honda actually cools the air.

The basic concept involves the manipulation of a refrigerant between its liquid and gas state. As it changes states, it can absorb heat and humidity. This manipulation of the refrigerant requires a slew of parts.

The compressor is one of the major components of your a/c. This not only pushes the refrigerant through the system but also compresses it into a high-pressure/high-temperature gas that absorbs the surrounding heat.

The refrigerant then travels to a condenser which lowers the temperature and changes it back into a liquid. Following that is an expansion valve that regulates the flow of the refrigerant. Here both the pressure and temperature fall even more.

Finally, the refrigerant changes back into a gaseous state in the evaporator which is the only component of the system that resides in the interior of the car. The air is cooled and dried as it blows across the evaporator.

What Is a Honda AC Refill?

As one can see the refrigerant is vital to the cooling properties of an a/c system. Since the system is a closed-loop typically there are no worries about having to “top up” the fluid levels as the refrigerant gets recycled indefinitely. However, if there is a leak somewhere in the system, then the refrigerant levels will drop and you will notice that your a/c is not blowing as cold as it once used to.

When you take your Honda to Berkeley Bob’s they’ll identify if there is a leak in the system.Once identified the technician will prepare a repair plan and with authorization begin repairs.First the refrigerant is completely evacuated using a specialized machine that prevents it leaking into the atmosphere.Next the damaged components will be removed and replaced in an effort to completely seal the system.Lastly your system will be refilled to the appropriate level.The body content of your post goes here. To edit this text, click on it and delete this default text and start typing your own or paste your own from a different source.

THE ID BUZZ AND THE RETURN OF THE ICONIC VW MICROBUS

Mon, 08 Aug 2022 13:23:59 GMT

Few vehicles carry the instant recognition found with the classic VW Type 2. First introduced in 1950, the Type 2 followed up on Volkswagen’s even more iconic Type 1, the precursor to the globally recognized Beetle. The microbus was quickly adopted for its simplicity, utility, and good value. Soon after its release, it would become an icon of the 60s and 70s, particularly within the hippy subculture.

The generations that followed that legendary first generation were never able to capture the same appeal. While the later minivans provided great utility, they gradually lost the quirkiness of the original. If you took a look at the current sixth-generation microbus, you might not even realize that it comes from the same lineage.

The Revival Of An Icon

In 2017 Volkswagen unveiled its futuristic ID.BUZZ concept, an electric minivan carrying inspiration from the original microbus. While not dead set on turning the concept into a production vehicle, strong consumer interest pushed VW into a change of plans. The company would eventually announce its plans to put the ID.Buzz into production.

With the European release of the ID.BUZZ scheduled for late 2022, we have already seen a production version of the bus. Thankfully, many of the styling choices of the concept made their way into the production model, such as the prominent front logo and available two-tone paint. On top of having a fun exterior and airy interior, the ID.BUZZ boasts an electric range of over 250 miles.

While Europe will get two versions of the electric minivan, a short and long wheelbase, the US is set only to get the long-wheelbase version, fitting seven people comfortably. Additionally, the US will have to wait until 2024 before the ID.BUZZ hits American showrooms. The final specifications and pricing of the US version have not been released yet.

With the revival around the corner, we hope Volkswagen can recreate the Type 2 magic in the electric age.

JAPANESE CARMAKER KEEPING THE MANUAL ALIVE

Thu, 21 Jul 2022 13:25:55 GMT

If you take a broad look through Toyota’s model lineup, it would be easy to quickly classify Toyota’s primary audience as families or those looking for a great value. At the end of the day, the mass-market sedans, crossovers, and minivans are Toyota’s bread and butter. But where’s the fun?

Near the turn of the century, the Japanese automaker pivoted away from its auto enthusiast-ready offerings. Sports cars such as the Supra, MR2, and Celica dissipated with time. After the demise of these vehicles, Toyota’s core identity took on a more subdued look.

Over the past few years, the automaker has grown out of its family-friendly shell and started offering vehicles like the FR-S (now GR86) and the exciting Supra revival. More recently, Toyota has made surprising announcements catering to the auto enthusiast crowd.

Saving The Manual

While many Toyotas are known for their subdued nature, the upcoming GR Corolla is everything but. An insane upgrade to the current Corolla, the GR variant features a 1.6L 3-cylinder engine producing 300 horsepower, an impressive 100 hp per cylinder. This hot-hatch comes with AWD and available front and rear limited-slip differentials. Most surprising is that the GR Corolla will only be made available with a six-speed manual transmission.

While the latest generation Supra currently comes with an automatic transmission, that will also change. Toyota recently announced that its Supra would have a manual transmission option.

As the current Supra is a collaboration with BMW, it uses the same engine and transmission as its German counterpart, the Z4. However BMW does not offer their Z4 with a manual, so it's speculated that Toyota is going out of its way to put in its own manual transmission to accomplish this, another surprise move.

As it's harder and harder to find a car that lets you use three pedals, Toyota, of all automakers, serves as a bastion for those who still want to drive the hard way.

TOYOTA BUILDING NEW AGE CITY

Fri, 08 Jul 2022 13:31:37 GMT

On February 23, 2021 in the shadow of Mount Fuji Toyota Corporation broke ground on a city of tomorrow.The 175 acre property once home to Toyota’s Higashi Fuji plant where the highly successful Toyota models AE86, Mark II and Century were designed and produced will become a “Living Laboratory”.

Named “The Woven City”, the prototype is a place where people, vehicles and buildings are connected by sensors and data.This connectivity will allow Toyota to test their A1 (artificial intelligence) technology with minimal risk in the real world. The plan includes three types of streets; one for pedestrians, one for people with personal mobility vehicles and one for automation driven vehicles.Delivery of goods throughout the city will be done using the Toyota e-pallet autonomous transport vehicles they designed for the Tokyo Olympics. This is to be a zero emissions city and will be powered entirely by clean energy sources; solar, geothermal and hydrogen fuel cells and it aims at using carbon neutral methods of hydrogen extraction as well.

Thirty three million autonomous cars will be sold around the world in 2040.Today the most advanced self driving cars require some degree of human supervision.In the future to fully adopt the benefit of these cars, cities will need to be fully wired to quickly transport data to these vehicles.This data would be generated from sensors and cameras placed on buildings, stop lights and other vehicles and would include weather data, pedestrian and cyclists habits.This data is essential for autonomous vehicles to safely navigate the city.In the future cities will be build expressly for autonomous vehicles.Right now modern day cities aren’t set up this way and that’s why Toyota has made the decision to build the sensor rich “The Woven City”.Their goal is to create safer systems in their vehicles.

Once operational this city will house over 2,000 residents many are Toyota employees and researchers who will test and develop a range of technologies.

Learn more at: https://www.woven-city.global/

IS THIS THE END FOR SUBARU WRX?

Fri, 01 Jul 2022 13:33:28 GMT

Beginning life in 1992, the Subaru WRX was a chance for everyday drivers to experience a world championship rally car. The WRX, short for “World Rally eXperimental,” displayed all the hallmarks of a rally winner. It had a powerful engine, a light body, and a tremendous all-wheel-drive system for off-road use.

Creating an outlier from the list of economy sedans and family station wagons, Subaru built the Impreza WRX. Already the most exciting car in Suburus offerings, it was eventually one-upped with the STI variant just a few years later. The WRX and its suped-up STI sibling were consistently great choices for any auto enthusiast wanting an agile and relatively cheap sports car capable of handling less-than-ideal weather.

The WRX continued to find success in its niche until critics pointed out that the cars lack of evolution. While it was a great car in its time, its competitors were catching up.

The Beginning of the End?

The second-generation WRX made its debut in late 2021 with derisive opinions from the automotive community. The body got larger with extra plastic cladding, the interior was just seen as average, and the engine received a microscopic three-horsepower bump.

Many held out hope for the upcoming STI version adding more power. However, in a surprising turn of events, Subaru announced that there would be no accompanying STI variant. Instead, the brand noted its primary focus on its electric car developments. As Subaru is far from the largest automaker in the world, its resources can’t be too spread out.

So as we edge towards the border of electric car dominance, is this the last we’ve seen of the rally-inspired Japanese icon? Will there be an electric continuation of the legendary model, and if it does come about, will it hold on to the same core values that made the original so popular? Only time will tell.

HONDA’S SHIFT TOWARDS ELECTRIFICATION

Fri, 24 Jun 2022 13:37:26 GMT

Recently, Honda has reiterated its ten-year electrification plan. The company's current offering is limited to a region-exclusive low-range urban EV recognized as the Honda e. While the company isn’t last in the EV race, the Japanese automaker is far from a leader.

Moving forward, Honda reports that it will be committing a substantial amount of capital over the next ten years, dedicated to improving its electric offerings. The company is allocating 5 trillion yen (~$39 billion) for use in research & development and additional investments to accelerate the electrification process. Ultimately, this plan culminates in offering 30 EVs globally by 2030 with an annual production of over 2 million units.

The Details

Along with the commitment, Honda presented some near-term plans. Regarding their battery procurement strategy, they will continue to work with each of their current partners. In the US, Honda will receive batteries from General Motors, CATL in China, and Envision AESC in Japan.

By Spring 2024, Honda hopes to have its own battery facility producing next-generation solid-state batteries. Also in 2024, we will begin to get our first taste of Honda’s new electric vehicles. The general plan for each region is as follows:

●North America. Two EV SUVs co-developed with GM by 2024. One is the recently announced Honda Prologue, and the other is Acura branded.

●China. Ten new EV models by 2027

●Japan. First commercial-use mini-EV model by 2024 to be followed by personal-use mini-EVs and EV SUVs.

While Honda did not go into further specifics about individual models, the automaker showed off two sports cars under sheets. The silhouette of one holds a strong resemblance to the Honda/Acura NSX, which many feel would do well in the electric age.

By 2027, Honda plans to leverage its partnership with GM to produce electric cars priced competitively with their gasoline-powered counterparts. Two dedicated EV plants are being designed for China and one in North America.

LEXUS SERVICE AND REPAIR IN BERKELEY

Tue, 07 Jun 2022 05:31:19 GMT

Lexus vehicles have become synonymous with luxury and quality. They are the embodiment of Japanese drive for quality - both in design and production. At Berkeley Bob’s we provide quality Lexus services and repairs that match Lexus manufacturer’s dedication and quality.

Our technicians, certified by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE), will use latest digital tools to diagnose and repair your Lexus. We also provide customer service that matches our technical excellence.

Our Berkeley auto repair facility can provide your Lexus with a broad range of maintenance services and repairs, including, but not limited to:

Brake System Maintenance and Repairs
Factory Maintenance & Oil Services
Fluid & Transmission Services
Electrical System Diagnostics and Repairs
Check Engine Light Diagnostics
Shock Absorbers, Suspension and Steering Repairs

We use latest digital tools to talk to your Lexus’ onboard computers, and all work performed at Berkeley Bob’s carries 36,000 mile / 36 month warranty.

At Berkeley Bob’s we also offer hybrid vehicle service and repairs.So if your Lexus ES 300h requires check engine light diagnostics or your CT 200h, 400h, 450h has drivability, suspension, braking or any other problem our technicians have the skills, experience and the latest diagnostic tools to get to the root cause of the concern and repair it properly.

To make an appointment simply call Berkeley Bob’s during business hours or make an appointment on our website.We are looking forward to helping you and your Lexus.

PRIUS MAINTENANCE SERVICES AND REPAIR IN BERKELEY, CA

Sun, 22 May 2022 05:35:03 GMT

Toyota Prius vehicles are a remarkable design – except for regular maintenance they rarely require professional attention. Many a Prius have gone 200,000 miles or more with regular service.

At Berkeley Bob’s we are Prius specialists, and can provide your vehicle with comprehensive maintenance services, as well as repairs, should your Prius need such.

Our nationally certified ASE technicians are equally comfortable working on gasolines engine as they are dealing with the high voltage system on a Prius including the battery. All our technicians have undergone extensive and continual hybrid vehicle training that allows them to perform any hybrid repairs your Prius may require.

Our family owned and operated Berkeley auto repair shop can offer your Prius a broad range of services including:

Factory Maintenance & Oil Services (particularly important since Prius vehicles are known for rapid oil consumption sometimes as much as 1 quart per 1000 miles driven)
Fluid & Transmission Services
Hybrid Battery testing and replacement
Shock Absorbers, Suspension and Steering Repairs
Brakes and Regenerative braking systems
Check Engine Light Diagnostics
Inspection, repair and replacement of belts, hoses & wiring
Prius A/C system maintenance and repair

When you regularly bring your Prius to our Berkeley auto repair shop we can help you keep it in top shape.Making your Prius remain a clean, reliable, safe and green driving machine.

Call us to make an appointment or request an appointment online. Berkeley Bob’s can be your one-stop Prius maintenance and repair destination.

VOLVO LOOKS TO LEAD IN AUTONOMOUS DRIVING - VOLVO RIDE PILOT

Wed, 27 Apr 2022 05:55:57 GMT

As the automotive industry trends towards advancements in electric and autonomous mobility, Volvo looks to top of the competition. The Swedish automaker not only has one of the most ambitious electrification goals, but they have also recently unveiled their newest autonomous driving system. Known as Volvo Ride Pilot, the system looks to deliver a hands-free driving experience for years to come.

Volvo Ride Pilot

Undertaking the task in collaboration with technology partners Zenseact and Luminar, Volvo looks to standardize Level 3 autonomy with LIDAR. Zenseact, who spun off from Volvo itself, will handle the software involved. Luminar, a leader in LIDAR technology, will provide the system with its most critical hardware components.

In practice, a LIDAR system sends out thousands of laser pulses and measures the time it takes for them to return, allowing a detailed measurement of the surrounding area to be made in real-time. The Volvos system will include five radar sensors, eight cameras, 16 ultrasonic sensors, and a LIDAR unit.

While Volvo doesn’t foresee the system as capable of delivering full autonomous driving in every weather condition, monitored autonomous features will be available at all times. Under ideal conditions, the companies goals allow the driver to divert their attention and keep their hands off the wheel. However, as a rated Level 3 system, options like sleeping won’t be recommended.

Currently, most autonomous features on the market are rated at Level 2, requiring drivers to keep their hands on the wheel and pay full attention to road conditions. As autonomous levels climb, expected driver involvement will decrease.

Looking for a quick release, Volvo plans to implement the system in its upcoming electric SUV, planned to unveil at the end of this year. Currently, Volvo has been conducting autonomous tests in both Sweden and California. Utilizing over-the-air software updates, the company can continuously improve and enhance the system as technology progresses.

While Volvo continues to push the envelope on autonomous driving technology, at Berkeley Bob’s we continue to increase our skills so we are ready for the new era of computerized Volvo vehicles. Berkeley Bob’s continues to be the leading Volvo repair shop in the San Francisco Bay Area, and we will continue to provide our customers with top-of-the-line Volvo diagnostic services and repairs. So next time your Volvo needs oil service, or is facing problems requiring use of VIDA tool to diagnose the root cause of the issue – give us a call.

VOLVO MAKES HISTORY – ENTIRE VOLVO LINEUP ACHIEVED AMERICAN INSURANCE INSTITUTE FOR HIGHWAY SAFETY “TOP SAFETY PICK PLUS”

Mon, 03 May 2021 05:59:13 GMT

Just a few days ago, Volvo XC40 Recharge has earned the TOP SAFETY PICK PLUS (TSP+) award making Volvo the only car maker to achieve this distinction across their entire product range.

IIHS awards TSP+ status to vehicles that provide the highest level of safety. By April 2021 entire Volvo lineup achieved this distinction.

Safety and Volvo have been synonymous for decades. Current models include as standard equipment forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking, along with advanced pedestrian and cyclist collision prevention.

Berkeley Bob’s is the premier Volvo repair shop in the Bay Area, and we are delighted that Volvo continues its tradition of safety and safety innovation.

Whether you drive Volvo XC 70, or the latest Volvo XC40 Recharge, Berkeley Bob’s can provide your vehicle with comprehensive maintenance service and repairs. We equip our technicians with state-of-the-art digital tools, including the VIDA tool that allows us to program Volvo computers.

No matter what Volvo model you drive, and what ails your Volvo, Berkeley Bob’s technicians will find the root cause and get your car fixed. All repairs performed at Berkeley Bob’s are backed by our 36 month / 36,000 mile warranty.

So next time your Volvo needs service, repairs or diagnostics, call us at the shop, or schedule an appointment online.

BERKELEY BOB’S AUTO REPAIR NAMES WINNER AND GIVES AWAY THE ROMANCE BASKET!!!

Fri, 05 Mar 2021 07:05:52 GMT

The lucky winner of that wonderful Romance Basket put together by Shelby for our February promotion is Randy from Oakland.We held the drawing on the afternoon of Friday the 26th.

Melissa pulled the winning ticket from a drum filled with almost 600 entries while our auto repair techs, Keith and Abe cheered (well, sort off).Watch the video below.

We want to thank all the Berkeley Bob’s customers that participated.Better Luck next year!

COOLING SYSTEM REPAIR IN BERKELEY

Mon, 01 Feb 2021 07:08:15 GMT

Does your cooling system need auto repair? If your answer is yes, then you are in the right place, as the auto mechanics at Berkeley Bob's in Berkeley are ready and willing to get your cooling system performing in tip-top shape. Leave the service and repair of your cooling system to the team of qualified technicians at Berkeley's Bob.

Your cooling system is responsible for three main functions. First, it will remove any excess heat from your engine. Second, your cooling system will maintain your engine's temperature so it can operate most efficiently. Finally, your cooling system will also bring your engine up to the right operating temperature as quickly as possible. Your cooling system has an important job. At Berkeley Bob's in Berkeley, it is our job to make sure that your cooling system continues to function correctly, and we take our role very seriously.

Berkeley Bob's in Berkeley will perform a thorough inspection of your vehicle's cooling system. Next, with our state-of-the-art digital inspections, we will go over what we find to ensure you understand why your cooling system needs or doesn't need service. Take a look at this recent 5-star review from one of our satisfied clients' experience with the auto mechanics at Berkeley Bob's for cooling system service:

"Bob's is always courteous and professional. I feel that I can trust them to accurately assess and repair my car, and they do not pressure the customer." -- Judith T.

Berkeley Bob's is all about precision. We are precise in the care we provide to you and your vehicle -- we get to know your car, your driving habits, and you, in general because we want to provide you with your service personalized to you. With this precision, we can accurately identify the underlying issue with your vehicle, whether that be for a cooling system service or something else. This refined focus is what keeps your car performing in peak condition. We are conveniently located at 2705 San Pablo Avenue in Berkeley, CA 94702, and we are open Mon - Thu: 8:15 AM - 5:15 PM and Fri: 8:15 AM - 4:30 PM. Schedule an appointment today!

Honda Repair in Berkeley, CA

Tue, 19 Jan 2021 07:21:22 GMT

Hondas are sleek, reliable, easily maneuverable, and attractive, which is why we believe maintaining your car with a regular auto repair schedule is valuable.At Berkeley Bob's in Berkeley, CA our auto mechanics understand how you feel, so we strive to provide you with honest, quality Honda service and repair.

Our team of certified professionals in Honda service and repair are experts in Honda auto repair. If you are looking for routine maintenance or any form of Honda service and repair, look no further than Berkeley Bob's auto repair shop. Our auto mechanics are factory trained to perform all Honda services and repairs on every model, including the Honda Accord, Honda Civic, Honda CR-V, Honda Odyssey, Honda Pilot, Honda Fit, Honda Ridgeline, Honda CR-Z, Honda Pilot, the Honda Insight and more.

With Berkeley Bob's on your team, you'll feel secure knowing our ASE-certified auto mechanics use original equipment and quality parts for your Honda service and repair. Berkeley Bob's also offers a 3-year/36,000-mile warranty on parts and labor, which is the best warranty provided in the area!

Check out this 5-star review from one of our clients:

"Brought in my 2004 Honda CRV because the check engine light was on and it needed an oil change. Found out it needed the oxygen sensor replaced and brake fluid change as well. Same day repair. Runs great now. Realizable friendly service!" -- Carolyn L.

We encourage you to come into Berkeley Bob's and experience our friendly staff, auto mechanics, and superior Honda service and repair first hand. Do you need a ride to work after dropping off your car for auto repairs at Berkeley Bob's? We are happy to arrange for or give you a ride within the area (up to 5 miles) of our auto repair shop. We are conveniently located at 2705 San Pablo Avenue in Berkeley, CA 94702, and we are open Mon – Thu: 8:15 AM – 5:15 PM and Fri: 8:15 AM – 4:30 PM. Contact us or schedule an appointment online today!

Auto Repair in Berkeley, CA

Fri, 15 Jan 2021 07:28:58 GMT

Berkeley Bob's is your one-stop auto repair shop in Berkeley, CA, for your Volvo, Toyota, Lexus, Honda, Acura, Volkswagen, Audi, Subaru, Kia, and Hyundai. Our highly trained ASE certified auto mechanics are your comprehensive experts in auto repair in the greater bay area. Do you have a hybrid that needs service? We specialize in those too. Our team is knowledgeable in electric car and hybrid service and truly pride ourselves in troubleshooting and servicing your gas-powered vehicle.

We at Berkeley Bob's love to focus on routine service and maintenance as well as brick and mortar repairs such as shocks, struts, and cv axles; no job is too big or too small for us. At Berkeley Bob's, we're happy to take care of all your auto repair needs from tires to transmission. We offer full-spectrum auto repair, diagnostic services and state-of-the-art digital visual inspections. You can stay informed throughout your vehicle's repair process. We are delighted to serve many car owners commuting from the surrounding communities: Albany

El Cerrito

Emeryville

Kensington

Piedmont

North Oakland

Rockridge

Temescal

Berkeley Bob's has a reputation for satisfying our customers and offering auto repair service that you can count on. For over 30 years, our auto mechanic team at Berkeley Bob's have specialized in diagnostics; we really have seen it all. Using the latest in factory equipment, teamed with the knowledge that only comes with many years of hands-on experience and hours of continued education, our auto repair statistics are well above average. We're confident that we provide top tier repairs and service to each of our clients.

Check out this review from another satisfied customer:

"Thanks for taking care of the issue with my car quickly and efficiently. Also, good advice given to help maintain the car" -- Henry B.

If you are looking for a qualified auto mechanic, look no further. Come into Berkeley Bob's and experience our friendly staff, experienced ASE certified technicians, and superior service. We are conveniently located in West Berkeley at 2705 San Pablo Avenue, Berkeley, CA 94702, and we are open Mon – Thu: 8:15 AM – 5:15 PM and Fri: 8:15 AM – 4:30 PM. Contact us or schedule an appointment online today!

VOLVO LEADS IN TECHNOLOGICAL INNOVATION ACCORDING TO JD POWER

Wed, 16 Sep 2020 07:31:09 GMT

Volvo received highest Innovation Index ranking among all automotive brands in the J.D. Power 2020 U.S. Tech Experience Index (TXI) Study. At Berkeley Bob’s, the premier Bay Area Independent Volvo repair shop we are delighted by this news.

Berkeley Bob’s specializes in Volvo maintenance and repair services. Naturally being a Volvo specialist shop we are equipped with the VIDA tool in addition our owner Sean Stephens is an ASE Master Technician, but has also been invited by the Volvo of North America to write technical articles for Volvo Techtips – a premiere technical resource periodical distributed to independent Volvo specialists throughout the United States.

We are lifelong Volvo enthusiasts and are thrilled with the results of JD Power research. We are looking forward to servicing the newer Volvos with all their innovations for decades to come.In the meantime if the Volvo in your driveway needs a bit of TLC trust Berkeley Bob’s to handle the service and repair.We will treat your vehicle as if it were our own!

Call to make an appointment or setup an appointment online.The body content of your post goes here. To edit this text, click on it and delete this default text and start typing your own or paste your own from a different source.

HYBRID REPAIR IN BERKELEY, CA

Thu, 03 Sep 2020 07:32:10 GMT

Berkeley, CA, is known as a socially responsible city, which is why hybrids and Berkeley go hand in hand. Berkeley Bob's team of auto mechanics specializes in Hybrid service and repair to keep your hybrid operating at peak performance level, no matter your auto repair needs.

Hybrid repairs come with their own set of challenges, which is why Berkeley Bob's auto mechanic team have taken specialized hybrid training courses to best serve you and your car. Our experienced team specializing in Hybrid service and auto repairs, focuses on safety and efficiency.

They also provide complimentary inspections, including a performance and road test evaluation, to better be able to advise you with the condition of your car. Hybrids tend to be low maintenance vehicles but they still require regular oil change services, tire rotations, etc. At Berkeley Bob's, we recommend getting on a regular hybrid service and repair maintenance schedule. This will extend the life of your vehicle and help to keep a close eye on your tires, as the regenerative braking can cause accelerated wear.

Our auto repair team has broad experience working on the following cars; Toyota Avalon Hybrid, Toyota Highlander Hybrid, Honda CR-Z, Honda Insight, Honda Accord Hybrid, and Honda Civic Hybrid, Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid, Kia Optima Hybrid, Hyundai Sonata Hybrid, Lexus ES 300h, GS 450h, RX 400h and every other make and model in need of hybrid service and repair. Our team of knowledgeable auto mechanics will keep your hybrid running smoothly and on the road to where you are going.

Here is a recent 5-star review from one of our customers:

"The service provided for my 2008 Prius was professionally executed, accompanied by excellent customer interaction. If you have a Prius and need a service provider - Bobs is the Place". -- Kenneth H.

If you have a hybrid, we encourage you to come into Berkeley Bob's and experience our friendly staff, auto mechanics and superior Hybrid service and repair first hand. Do you need a ride to work after dropping off your car for auto repairs at Berkeley Bob's? We are happy to arrange for or give you a ride within the area (up to 5 miles) of our auto repair shop. We are conveniently located at 2705 San Pablo Avenue in Berkeley, CA 94702, and we are open Mon – Thu: 8:15 AM – 5:15 PM and Fri: 8:15 AM – 4:30 PM. Contact us or schedule an appointment online today! We back our work with a 3-year/36,000-mile warranty, the best offered in the area.

MOVE OVER GEORGE JETSON…

Thu, 06 Feb 2020 07:47:35 GMT

Since the 1960’s TV cartoon show The Jetsons first aired Americans have been dreaming about the possibility of cruising around in ground to sky vehicles.The future is upon us and that dream has become closer to reality.Behold the “Transition Flying Car” from Terrafugia whose parent company is no stranger; Geely Holdings who owns Volvo Cars, Lotus Cars and China Euro Vehicle Technology.Terrafugia started in 2006 by six MIT graduates is headquartered in Massachusetts but the company’s research and technology division happens to be here where no one does cutting edge better.

The two seater convertible flying machine is powered by a single 100hp 4 cylinder fuel injected internal combustion engine for flight made by Rotax, an Austrian company owned by Bombardier.The drive mode utilizes hybrid electric motors probably similar in design to the Toyota Prius but Terrafugia has not revealed the maker yet.It is relatively small sized with a length of 19.5 ft and a height of 7.5 ft, the foldable wing span has a varying width 27.2 ft in flight mode and 6.9 ft in drive mode.Other specs include a 20 gallon fuel tank, a 5 gal per hour fuel burn rate, a flying speed of 100 mph and a maximum driving range of 400 miles.The Transition comes standard with Dynon’s Skyview Avionics controls and pilot interface that is designed for future upgradability.Safety features abound; along with seat belts and airbags there is an airframe parachute.Driver requirements are a current driver’s license and a sport‘s pilot certificate.If you’re interested you’ll have to send a “letter of intent to purchase” to the company.Delivery date unknown as is the price but rumored to be in excess of $275,000. Remember exclusivity is never affordable.

VW TO SELL ID CROZZ ELECTRIC CROSSOVER, STARTING IN 2020

Mon, 03 Feb 2020 07:53:09 GMT

Volkswagen announced that it will sell its new electric crossover – ID Crozz – in the United States staring in 2020.

ID Crozz is a mid-sized crossover about the size of 2018 Volkswagen Tiguan.The range is touted to be about 300 miles, not too shabby!It’s also supposed to be capable of an 80% capacity charge in just 30 minutes using a 150-kilowatt CCS fast charging. Not much else is known about the car at this time. We will keep you informed of future developments.

Volkswagen has really jumped into the electric car market with its ID.3 (we blogged about it couple of months ago), now with their ID Crozz compact crossover and its plans to have production capacity of over 20 million electric cars per year by 2028.

In the meantime, you can still service and repair your conventional Volkswagen at the Berkeley Bob’s auto repair shop. We remain committed to servicing gasoline engine Volkswagens while we tool up and train for the new crop of all-electric vehicles. We also continue to provide 3 years / 36,000 miles warranty on the work we perform at Berkeley Bob’s. So next time your Volkswagen – gasoline or electric – needs servicing or something bigger give us a call to set up an appointment.

BARNACLE VS BOOT

Mon, 13 Jan 2020 08:55:57 GMT

Heard about the Barnacle? It’s a device that is quickly making the boot obsolete.The boot has been used in the Midwest and on the East Coast as a driving deterrent for non-ticket paying drivers. Attached to the car’s wheel the boot restrains the wheel from rotating and forces the car to be towed away rather than driven.The Barnacle attaches to the car’s windshield with two pumps and it’s deters driving by obstructing the drivers view of the road.The device is impossible to pull off as it resists hundreds of pounds of pulling pressure.Also a siren will blare if someone attempts to drive the car with the device installed.

The Barnacle is user friendly.Just call the phone number on the device, pay the outstanding tickets and you’re given a magic code which unlocks the Barnacle.The driver then leaves the unlocked Barnacle on the sidewalk to be retrieved by parking enforcement.The need for the car to be towed at the owner’s added expense is eliminated; the parking violation gets paid quick, costs the driver less in money and time because there is no need to retrieve the car at the tow yard.The device folds flat and can be easily stowed in parking enforcement vehicles.Easily fit onto the violator’s car alleviating the need for officers to unsafely lie down in the road in all types of weather.Just unfold, apply and pressurize.

The Barnacle is a win for everyone!

NEW FOR 2020!

Mon, 13 Jan 2020 08:53:12 GMT

Cruise in and try out the new coffee station in the customer waiting area at Berkeley Bob's. Our little green friend is overjoyed! You will be to as you brew yourself a fresh, hot cuppa joe to sip while we do the paperwork.

HONDA E ELECTRIC VEHICLE

Thu, 03 Oct 2019 08:57:57 GMT

The new electric car from Honda, called the “E” is the first large production all battery electric powered vehicle from Honda.The “E” will be marketed and sold in Europe.Unfortunately the company has no plans to make them available in the US, too bad because this car is designed for the needs of urban San Francisco Bay Area drivers.Small enough to cruise the congested city streets with ease in addition to fitting into the smallest of parking spaces.The range is a modest 135 miles but offers a speedy charging rate, 10% to 80% in 30 minutes.Honda has two HP options to choose from; 134 or the more powerful 152.The exterior resembles a lovable, squeezable character right out of a Disney animated film but inside the “E” is loaded with high tech gadgetry and was designed without external side view mirrors which are replaced by two dash screens bringing the total to five which span the entire dash.Other features include voice commands for several operations like stereo volume along with the My Honda app which provides up to date info on battery status and charge locations and allows remote operation of A/C and heating systems.OK now the price, how much can Honda expect to charge for a short range super compact vehicle that will be obsolete in 10 years due to the fast pace of automotive technology?A bundle, the base model will retail at £29,660 ($36,700) and the £32,160 ($39,800).All in all a pricey competitor when compared to the Renault Zoe equipped with a 52 kWh and a 182 mile range for a few thousand pounds sterling less or the Nissan Leaf which has a 68 kWh battery, a 236 mile range and following in the Europe having sold over 12,000 cars in 2018.Looking at the “E” it’s hard to imagine they will sell like hot cakes in the UK and Europe but for those high heeled singles looking for a sporty, super compact with a nice technology package this may just be the car.

VOLKSWAGEN ANNOUNCES ELECTRIC VOLKSWAGEN ID.3

Tue, 03 Sep 2019 09:01:44 GMT

After the debacle with diesel emission cheating, Volkswagen has done a full 180 and in September, at the Frankfurt Motor Show, will introduce electric Volkswagen ID.3

Details are still pretty sketchy, but Volkswagen has announced that it will offer three versions -low end version with electric range of 200 miles, mid level version with the range of 260 miles, and the high end version with electric range of 340 miles.

As all electric cars, it will be a lively vehicle, with excellent acceleration.

While we don't have many details, it is supposed to be priced similarly to a fully equipped Volkswagen Golf TDI.

Naturally when the electric Volkswagen will become available in the US, we will provide full service for ID.3 owners. In the meantime,
we are happy to service and repair most Volkswagen models you may currently own.

We will, of course, continue to keep you informed about this new exciting electric car.

WHAT HAPPENS AFTER TOYOTA SUPRA’S 4 YEARS FREE APPLE CARPLAY ENDS?

Mon, 12 Aug 2019 09:03:10 GMT

Road/Show has announced the top level 2020 Toyota Supras will be equipped with Apple CarPlay.The Apple CarPlay is the infotainment system used widely by BMW.Toyota is not offering an android option for their Supras.However, they have introduced Google’s equivalent smart-phone mirroring on select Canadian and USA models namely; Sequoia, 4-Runner, Tacoma, Tundra and SUV’s.

Apple CarPlay will be free on the applicable Supras for 4 years then mostly likely an annual subscription fee will be charged like BMW has been doing.Toyota’s offer of four years free is quite generous compared to BMW who initially offered the technology as a one-time cost option but now gives one year free then charges an $80 per year subscription.When Motor 1 reached out to Toyota’s Customer Care Senior Analyst of Connected Technologies, Jarrod Marini regarding the billing plan for the future he said “We haven’t decided yet” (what will come after the four year free period runs out)”.

While it seems most newly developed Toyota Models do come with free Apple CarPlay at least for four years.But if you are interested in purchasing a Toyota Supra with the convenient technology you’ll have to step up because it’s not available on the base $49,990 + delivery model.The Premium and Launch Edition both come with the upgraded Supra Command System and have the phone mirroring capabilities on the 8.8” screen for a cool $53,990 or $55.250 + delivery charges respectively.

SAMSUNG AND VOLVO PARTNER

Fri, 02 Aug 2019 09:12:01 GMT

The Volvo group has forged an agreement with Samsung SDI to develop and supply battery cells and modules for its Volvo electric trucks. Samsung will supply these components to the Volvo Group to be assembled in their manufacturing facilities and are for use in Volvo’s all electric trucks.

Volvo Trucks of North America has quickly moved into the all electric truck area, their FL Electric trucks began rolling off the assembly line earlier this year.An all-electric garbage truck is also in the works for Volvo as is an autonomous, cab-less all electric truck. No stranger to electric vehicles their sister company, Volvo Buses have been manufacturing and selling all electric buses since 2010.

Volvo is now expanding their VNR series with an all electric.This all electric truck is being tested in California now with sales beginning in 2020.Volvo says the new truck is ideal for heavy urban distribution, drayage and other regional applications an option for cities seeking cleaner, quieter, fully electric commercial transport.

No details have been disclosed regarding the scope of the alliance between Volvo and Samsung SDI.The order volume and battery capacity is unclear at this time.

VOLVO TO RECALL HALF A MILLION CARS

Tue, 30 Jul 2019 09:14:17 GMT

Volvo has announced via email it would recall 507,000 vehicles Worldwide. The effected years are 2014-2019. The models include their entire line-up S60, S80, S90, V40, V60, V70, V90, XC60, XC90 and are for cars fitted with the 2 liter, 4 cylinder diesel engines.

This recall is due to a faulty engine component that can catch on fire. This component the intake manifold and is made of plastic. This plastic apparently over time can melt down, deform and can catch fire.

The company has made no reports of accidents or personal injuries related to the recall.Volvo will send all vehicle owners with those cars a notification by mail asking them to seek out a local retailer for corrective action.

EV BATTERIES ARE RAPIDLY COMING DOWN IN PRICE

Wed, 24 Apr 2019 09:16:37 GMT

Bloomberg NEF – provider of energy research and information predicts (April, 2019) that the cost of EV batteries will come down rapidly.It’s estimated that by 2025 the cost of an EV battery will only be 20% of the entire vehicle cost. Even sooner BloombergNEF reports that by 2022 EV will become the cheaper option.

As of 2015 the battery cost was 57% of the entire vehicle price.While this year they are down to 33% of the vehicle cost. At Berkeley Bob’s we welcome the rapid development of electric vehicles. Our nationally ASE certified technicians have the latest tools and training to safely handle the high voltage battery in your vehicle. We appreciate the improvement in air quality that the widespread adoption of electric vehicles provides.

JAPANESE CAR PRODUCTION IN UK UNLIKELY AFTER BREXIT

Mon, 15 Apr 2019 09:20:53 GMT

All this talk of Brexit and nothing has been resolved.This week the EU decided to extend implementation until October 31, 2019.The world’s waiting anxiously to see what the Brexit deal will mean for both Britain and the European Union.There’s so much uncertainty on how Britain will conduct business in Europe after Brexit.Either way the automotive car makers are getting nervous and have already made changes that are effecting their car production in Britain.

In February, Nissan announced it had decided to cancel their plan to expand the Sunderland manufacturing plant which turns out 520,000 cars a year and employs 7700 people in Northern England.The proposed expansion was to produce Nissan SUVs, Qashqai and X-Trail and would have increased the two assembly line plant to three, employed an additional 3300 jobs people and injected the local economy with an estimated £254m in wages.

Then, in mid March Nissan made a second announcement stating the same facility would stop making Infiniti Q30 and Q30X models later this year due to poor sales in Europe.These are big losses for an area that is slow to recover from various industry shutdowns including coal mining, glass manufacturing and ship building.

The biggest concern for Nissan is parts availability.Due to the high cost of storage at or near their Sunderland site, their facility is dependent on receiving 5,000 parts daily from their EU partners.After Brexit those parts are likely to be hung up in red tape crossing the Channel leading to production delays.

Another Japanese car manufacturer, Honda said in February by 2021 they will close their car plant in Swindon (Southwest England) that employs 3500 people and makes about 147,000 Civics per year. Honda claims they will focus on their electric car manufacturing but a recent deal struck between Honda and the EU suggests the elimination of tariffs on cars imported after 2027.

There’s been no official word from Toyota who has operated a car manufacturing plant in Burnaston, Derbyshire since 1992 and currently produces about 150,000 Corolla’s per year there.However they have reduced their production by 50% due to heavy dependency on components imported from the European Union.

BMW and Ford are also concerned about Brexit.The plant making Minis in the UK plans to close for at least a month following the implementation of Brexit.Ford which employs 13,000 workers has said a bad exit could cost them £800m.

Many transnational companies are concerned about what Brexit will mean for them.It is apparent the car companies in the UK are making changes ahead of Brexit to avoid production delays and complicated import and export rules once it’s implemented.The only thing clear about Brexit is that no one knows exactly what will happen or when it will happen, only that it will be different.

HYUNDAI MOTOR COMPANY GOES GREEN – SOY WIRING INSULATION

Wed, 06 Mar 2019 09:22:05 GMT

Engine electrical wiring harnesses have traditionally been coated with a covering that is made from petroleum based plastic, this covering is called insulation.However, Hyundai along with a few other manufacturers (Toyota, Kia, Subaru and Honda) made an effort to change tradition and move in a “green” direction.That is they decided to go eco-friendly (and safe a few bucks in the process) and change their vehicle wiring harness insulation composition to a soy based “bioplastic” product.This new material will keep the plastic insulation out of landfills, be biodegradable and of course be cheaper to manufacturer.

That’s all good right?Not so, as it turns out a group of rodents or rats and mice, to be exact, found out about the new cache of soy based wire insulation being stored under the hoods of Hyundai automobiles everywhere.The rodents not only feast on the (yummy?) soy product but they also discovered it worked well as a nesting material.As the rodents joyfully repurposed this biodegradable, eco-friendly insulation, the Hyundai owners began to have issues with their cars; no start problems, dash lights coming on, functionality of sub-systems shutting down; all kinds of problems began sprouting up.

These Hyundai car owners and lessees returned to their local dealers with all sorts of complaints.Now you can imagine how many systems on a modern car rely on electrical power being sent through the wiring harnesses; from the main engine computer all the way down to the taillights there are miles of wires connecting all the systems.

Now here’s where it gets complicated, Hyundai Motor America Inc refused to warranty the wiring and the repairs made would be with the identical eco-friendly insulated wiring.Subsequently a woman from California attempted to sue Hyundai Motor America Inc. for using the soy based insulation in their 2013 – 2016 cars. This after she had spent $500 on two repairs done a month apart. Her claim was Hyundai won’t warranty repairs, refuses to declare the rodent loving insulation defective and by reinstalling the same product, creating a continual cycle that causes Hyundai car owners to shell out thousands of dollars in repeat repairs. However, a few days after the case was heard in court it was voluntarily dismissed at the plaintiff’s request.

We haven’t heard the last about the use of soy and other plant based components in cars.The use of “bioplastic” is on the rise, driven by our desire to improve the planet by reducing greenhouse gases created when plastic breaks down, reducing our dependency on fossil fuel to make plastics and increasing our demand for renewable sourced material.

NEW CAR BATTERIES ARE FAILING SOONER - JD POWERS

Fri, 22 Feb 2019 09:25:50 GMT

JD Powers did an annual survey of vehicle owners, and results were quite interesting - newer cars are having more problems with batteries.

It turns out auxiliary car batteries are failing sooner. Normally you would expect a good quality battery to last 5 years or so but now they are failing at an increased rate after two or three of years of use.

As it turns out the culprits are info systems, entertainment systems as well as the modern key fobs. Info and entertainment systems are known power hogs because software updates and telemetry communications that occur while the car is parked create additional drain on the battery – not terribly surprising.

But the key fob is an interesting story.It turns out many fobs are part of a proximity key system (that allows an owner to unlock and start the car while keeping the key fob in his or her pocket or purse).This function can also drain a car battery’s charge at an accelerated rate when the activating key fob is kept within close distance or left in the car. The reason is the fob and car communicate at frequent intervals and this communication uses battery power.

Batteries need to be fully discharged and fully charged to achieve optimal lifespan. Partially drained batteries partially recharged during commute result in decreased battery lifespan.Experts suggest taking your vehicle for an extended highway drive (at highway speeds) at least once a month so the alternator can fully charge the auxiliary battery.

The problem appears more pronounced with luxury cars which tend to be loaded with the latest bells and whistles. At Berkeley Bob’s we always check your battery whenever you bring your vehicle for a service. So if you drive a Lexus, Acura, Volvo or an Audi you can rest assured your battery will be checked during every regular service maintenance interval.

STARTING IN 2019 VOLVO WILL PRODUCE ONLY HYBRIDS AND ELECTRIC CARS

Fri, 11 Aug 2017 09:37:13 GMT

Starting in 2019 Volvo will produce only hybrids and electric cars

Volvo announced that starting in 2019 all new Volvos will either be electric or hybrid models. Volvo management wants to open a new chapter in auto history – after over 100 years of the internal combustion engine ruling the world. Actually, it’s a return to the early days of automobile industry – at the beginning of the 20th century, internal combustion engine was just one of the three contenders – the other two were steam engines and electric engines.

With the modern technology increasing efficiency and improving power management, the electric engines are coming back strong. Volvo promises three Volvo models, and two high performance electric cars from Polestar, Volvo’s performance car division. They plan to sell over 1 million electric cars by 2025.

At Berkeley Bob’s we are electric and hybrid specialists, so you can bring your new Volvo hybrids to us, knowing that your car is in good hands.

ARE YOU READY FOR THE ERA OF THE DRIVER-LESS CAR?

Wed, 07 Oct 2015 10:10:25 GMT

Currently it’s against the law to have a self driving vehicle on the road. However, four US states—California, Nevada, Florida, Michigan and District of Columbia have all passed laws allowing driverless cars to operate on public highways and roads.

Just one short step from completely driverless cars, Google currently has 23 Lexus RX450h hybrid SUV vehicles equipped with the company's self driving technology roaming the streets of the San Francisco Bay Area. These cars are racking up approximately 10,000 miles per month, and in June of this year Google claimed to have logged just over million miles.

And now that there has already been a fair amount of test driving in place, Google has decided to move into car manufacturing. Over the last few years the company has been housing its self propelling technology in cars made by Toyota (Prius), VW (Beetle) and Lexus (RX450h), but now Google is developing its own vehicle.

Photo Courtesy of Google

Google has wisely chosen to partner with Roush Enterprises, the company started by racing mogul Jack Roush who began at Ford Motor Company who then went on to build an engineering empire by designing performance parts for sport, stock and drag racing cars. Called the “Google Auto” for lack of a better name, the vehicle will be made in Plymouth Township, Michigan with electronic components from Silicon Valley. Photos of the prototype show a fun little capsule that looks similar to an amusement park ride—how fun is that?

Google is not the only company on the horizon of manufacturing autonomous vehicles. In fact there is a bit of a race between companies. QNX from Canada is devising an operating platform that will control everything in a car including movies, games, phone and favorite apps. According to Sergey Brin the Google car will be coming to a showroom near you as early as 2017.

Are you ready?

VOLKSWAGEN SCANDAL GETS BIGGER

Tue, 29 Sep 2015 10:19:05 GMT

Recently Volkswagen admitted to using special software to change diesel cars emissions during tests – for over 500,000 Volkswagen diesel cars sold in the United States. Worldwide, the number may be as high as 11 million cars. Thanks to special software supplied by Bosch, when tested, cars would show legal emission levels, but during regular driving, they would have much higher emissions, in some cases as much as 40 times the permissible level. Bosch says it warned Volkswagen not to use the software in production cars – that it was only meant for factory testing.

United States Justice Department started criminal investigation, and Environmental Protection Agency has threatened to impose fines up to $18 billion – this was all BEFORE Volkswagen admitted to the shenanigans. Volkswagen initially denied it was trying to game the inspections, and claimed higher emissions where due to "various technical issues and unexpected in-use conditions” – or so say sources within EPA that spoke to Reuters.

It was only after EPA threatened to withhold certification for its 2016 models that Volkswagen admitted they had special software that altered car performance during tests. Since then the management said it was "deeply sorry" for the breach of trust, and the Volkswagen CEO resigned.

EPA said they would test cars made by other automakers, Volkswagen Italy suspended sale of cars, and the worldwide repercussions are just starting.

On the positive side for the US Volkswagen diesel owners there will not be any changes in part availability since the OEM manufacturers are not affected by the scandal.

We will keep you posted as the story unfolds.

TAKATA AIRBAG RECALL

Wed, 02 Sep 2015 10:21:27 GMT

You might have heard about the Takata airbag recall - if you drive a Honda, Mazda, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Subaru or a Toyota, there is a good chance you received a notice from the your dealer. As of summer 2015, recall of Takata airbags exceeds 34 million vehicles just in the US.

Many dealers still have pretty long wait times, but if you got a recall notice, give them a call. Many have worked down their backlog, and may be able to schedule replacement within a few days, often less than a week. Given the severity of potential injuries, scheduling an airbag replacement sooner than later is a good idea.

The problem with Takata airbags is that they sometimes deploy with too much force, sending shrapnel into the interior of the vehicle. Both deaths and injuries have occurred. Apparently, the culprit is moisture. Once it gets into the inflator, it destabilizes the chemical compound responsible for the explosion that inflates the airbags – due to moisture, the compound becomes more explosive than intended.

So if you got a recall notice, call your dealer to get a replacement. Dealers will replace your airbags free of charge. If you have not received a notice, or are not sure if your airbags should be replaced - you can check your VIN here - this is a site provided by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to check if your car has had incomplete recall work done within the last 15 years.

FREE HYDROGEN FUEL FOR BUYERS OF THE NEW TOYOTA MIRAI H2 SEDAN

Mon, 10 Aug 2015 10:29:22 GMT

A car manufacturer so confident in their model’s fuel efficiency, Toyota just announced that for purchasers of their new Mirai sedan, the company is willing to pay for the first two years of hydrogen fuel. Mirai—which is the Japanese word for “future”—is the newest model by Toyota to roll off the assembly line and into showrooms. The car will be released in the U.S. in December 2015 in limited quantities and then next year production is scheduled to double.

Be the first on your block to own this smart looking, fun to drive vehicle, Toyota’s first foray into the fuel cell vehicle market. Only the second Japanese car manufacturer to bring hydrogen fuel cell technology to the US market, Toyota is hoping this new fuel efficient model will outsell the Prius over the next decade. Honda was the first Japanese car maker to introduce a hydrogen vehicle, the Clarity, which became available in the Southern California test market in 2014.

The Mirai is a 300 mile range, ZERO emissions car. It sports a space age interior with a large monitor that serves as the main communication portal for virtually everything concerning the vehicle. Its powerful fuel cell is strong enough to produce electricity to power an entire house for a full week. Toyota reports that the hydrogen fuel the car needs to run could be made out of anything—even garbage! The Mirai’s only emission is water vapor—pretty amazing.

For those who are ecologically minded and want to step into something very economical, the Mirai may just be the right fit for you.

WHAT DO YOU KNOW ABOUT FUEL OCTANE AND DOES IT MATTER ANYWAY?

Tue, 09 Jun 2015 10:32:28 GMT

If you ask the average consumer what they know about octane their response would be something like higher octane is more money and not necessary; part truth and part myth. Let’s explore fuel octane and the variations.

In California there are three levels of fuel octane most frequently available; 87, 89, 91. The octane rating scale began in 1926 when a guy named Graham Edgar experimented by adding two different components; heptane and isooctane to gasoline and discovered engine knocking stopped when more isooctane was added. So he created the rating scale which goes from zero (100% heptane) to 100 (100% isooctane). Therefore fuel with a rating of 91 has more isooctane then either 87 or 89.

All car manufacturers issue a minimum octane rating for their cars. It’s important to know what your car’s rating is. While you may be able to drive with a lower octane fuel than suggested it’s not advisable especially if your car experiences any engine knocking. This is an indicator that the engine is not combusting properly and if excessive can cause engine damage.

We have seen a quite a few cars come in presenting drivability problems that have been traced to ill performing fuel components. Audis, Volvos, VWs are the makes we have seen most often with these problems. After further examination we have found many of these components were compromised by a gummy substance. This substance is likely a by-product of old fuel and fuel additives in gasoline creating a build-up of rust, water and sediment formation over time. However there is no substantial information on whether it has a link to lower octane fuel.

The appearance of the gummy substance does tend to be more prevalent in cars that use lower than recommended octane gasoline and/or cars suspected of running old gasoline. However it may be due more from the driving habits of those cars. Not enough research has been performed to know for sure the exact cause. However, to be on the safe side, we suggest using gasoline with manufacturer recommended octane rating, especially if you drive one of the following cars: Audi A4, Audi A6, Audi A8, Volvo 850, Volvo S70, Volvo V70, Volvo S80, Volvo XC70, Volvo XC90, VW Golf, VW Beetle, VW Jetta, VW Passat.

In summary, we advise using a gasoline with the fuel octane your car manufacturer recommends. If your car is non-operational for long periods of time, have the gasoline in the tank drained and replaced with fresh gasoline before you resume driving it.

TOPPING OFF - NOT A GOOD IDEA

Fri, 08 May 2015 10:34:07 GMT

Many car owners top off the tank after the gas pump automatically shuts off. We all want that extra ¼ gallon to extend the range of the car, but topping off is not a good idea.

Living and working in Berkeley, we try to take good care of the environment. Topping off is definitely not an environmentally friendly practice. Here are the reasons why we recommend against topping off:

There is a possibility that the extra gasoline will spill out – this is bad for 3 reasons:
Breathing gasoline fumes is bad for you.
Gasoline spills are bad for the environment.
You are, literally, spilling money on the ground.
When you top off the tank, some of the gasoline may get into the component that is only supposed to carry fumes – the carbon filter. While this will not destroy your car, it will over time cause worse emissions, lower mileage, and may necessitate repairs.

Again, it’s bad for the environment and bad for your pocketbook..

So next time you are tempted to top off – just say No.

KEEP YOUR TANK AT LEAST ¼ FULL – BE GOOD TO YOUR FUEL PUMP

Fri, 01 May 2015 10:36:11 GMT

Nobody likes to run out of fuel, so we usually get to the gas station before the tank runs dry. But what the manufacturers don’t bother to tell us, is that running on empty is not good for the fuel pump.

Whether you drive a Volvo, Audi, Lexus or a popular Volkswagen, they all have fuel pumps. And a fuel pump, like most mechanical devices, needs to be cooled.

Cooling of a fuel pump is accomplished by flow of the fuel through the pump, but also by the fuel pump being immersed in the gasoline in your tank. So as the tank gets progressively emptier, that second method of cooling – immersion in the gasoline - becomes less and less effective.

While running on fumes is not going to destroy your fuel pump (in most cases), it may cause it to work at a higher than optimal temperature. Over time, it will cause faster wear and eventually, require premature fuel pump replacement.

BTW: running out of gas is not only a hassle, but really bad for the fuel pump. So keep your tank at least ¼ full – you will save yourself and your fuel pump from unnecessary stress.

V60 DIESEL PLUG-IN HYBRID

Mon, 02 Sep 2013 10:43:12 GMT

Latest spot featuring the 2014 Volvo V60 diesel plug-in hybrid.

VOLVO S60 SMALL OVERLAP CRASH: GOOD RATINGS

Fri, 28 Sep 2012 10:47:18 GMT

2012 Volvo S60 40 mph small overlap front test.

Overall evaluation: Good

LATEST SPOT FEATURING THE VOLVO S60 T5 ALL-WHEEL DRIVE

Fri, 28 Sep 2012 10:46:03 GMT

Latest spot featuring the Volvo S60 T5 All-Wheel Drive.

2013 PRIUS – 4 NEW VERSIONS

Fri, 28 Sep 2012 10:45:15 GMT

Latest spot featuring the four new Prius 2013 edition – A Prius for Everyone.

VIDEO

Thu, 22 Mar 2012 10:52:40 GMT

Latest spot featuring the 2014 Volvo V60 diesel plug-in hybrid.

Latest spot featuring the four new Prius 2013 edition – A Prius for Everyone.

Latest spot featuring the Volvo S60 T5 All-Wheel Drive.

2012 Volvo S60 40 mph small overlap front test.

END OF SUMMER DRAWING!

Thu, 22 Mar 2012 10:49:54 GMT

End of Summer Drawing!

Bring your vehicle in for service or repair during the month of September and enjoy one of the following promotions:

Entry in a drawing for:

FREE Oil and Filter Services for 1 year
FREE Car Wash or Tire Rotation
$25.00 Off Your Repair Order Bill

Hurry in - this offer ends September 28th 2012!

*This offer must be presented at time of vehicle drop-off for service/repairs. Drawing winner will be chosen at random. Excludes tire purchases and computer software downloads. Maximum of 4 oil and filter services during the 12 month period. Synthetic oil is NOT included but can be supplied for additional fee if desired. Only applies to Volvo, Toyota, Honda and Lexus automobiles. Diesels are excluded. Drawing will take place on October 1, 2012.

Sincerely, Colin Deans
Service Manager

berkeleybobswebsiteredesign

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