Autos

Free app alerts you if your car—or even parts of your car—has recalls issued A quarter of vehicles currently on the road have an unrepaired recall, putting drivers, passengers, and even those around them at risk. That’s why the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) created the SaferCar app. This…

Eligible consumers may receive up to $1,200 in emissions-related repairs SACRAMENTO – The Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR) has adopted emergency regulations updating the Consumer Assistance Program (CAP) to increase assistance contributions available to consumers during the ongoing state of emergency in California. The regulations increase the state’s contribution toward…

Do you like having some walnuts now and then—a solid, healthy snack? Your car may feel the same way. Up until a few years ago, some manufacturers were making fuel-injected engines that, over time, have a tendency to get gunk buildup on valves, reducing engine performance in several ways: loss…

Licensed repair professionals can help keep your older car safe Birthdays are causes for celebration: another year in the rear-view mirror, but a new one just around the corner. Those annual recognitions go for your car, too, and added years mean added cause to make sure your vehicle’s running smoothly,…

Wear one and keep your car in safe shape with help from licensed professionals For most of us, it’s automatic: You get in your car, reach your hand over your shoulder, pull the seat belt down, and lock it in. But for some Americans, that’s still not happening, and too…

Article authored by Matt Woodcheke, Consumer Connection staff Question: My car needs expensive repairs to pass Smog Check and I don’t know if I should put money into it or cut my losses. What do you recommend? Answer: The Bureau of Automotive Repair’s (BAR) Consumer Assistance Program (CAP) offers a…

Regulation and oversight help keep consumers—and their cars—safe Having car trouble is trouble enough; getting it fixed shouldn’t be. That’s because, decades ago, California enacted robust car-repair legislation to protect you and your vehicle—protection that continues strong today. FIXING PAST PRACTICES In the early and mid-20th century, if you had…

Smog Check stations caught using “clean gassing” to issue fraudulent certificates SACRAMENTO, CA – The Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR) has filed, for prosecution by the Attorney General’s Office, accusations against nine Smog Check stations because investigations showed them to be issuing fraudulent certificates. Through analysis of Smog Check Program…

New Bureau of Automotive Repair Program Sends Cars to Schools Your clunker car could be put to good use in the classroom. The Bureau of Automotive Repair’s (BAR) new Cars for Schools program provides retired vehicles to public high schools, community colleges, and regional occupation programs, offering students the opportunity…

The Internet of things. Maybe that’s not a phrase you’re familiar with, but you’re likely very familiar with what it describes. Your phone, your television, any smart device at all- all these things are networked together to empower and convenience you in the Internet of things. And coming soon: your…