Milex Complete Auto Care - Frederick

Moran Thanks its Veteran Franchise Owners

Wed, 15 Nov 2017 08:00:00 GMT

In honor of Veterans Day, Moran Family of Brands would like to salute the 15 franchise owners in our system who served in the military.

We are also proud to announce Entrepreneur Magazine ranked Mr. Transmission/Milex Complete Auto Care as one of the top franchises for veterans . The magazine based its ranking on each company’s veteran incentive, support by the company in the franchise-buying process, and the company’s ranking in the 2017 Franchise 500, the magazine’s yearly assessment on the health and growth potential of the country’s best franchises (Mr. Transmission/Milex Complete Auto Care ranked #474).

George Kok is an example of a Moran franchise owner who has successfully transitioned from military service to civilian life. Kok purchased a Mr. Transmission/Milex auto repair store in Louisville, Kentucky in 1983 and another store in Clarksville, Indiana 15 years ago. He credits much of his success as a business owner from the experience he gained during his three and a half years teaching operations control for Chinook helicopters in the United States Army in the early 1970’s.

“I received excellent training in the military about the hydraulic systems in helicopters, which I now apply to automotive transmissions,” said Kok. “I also learned the importance of discipline, accountability and chain of command, which has been the core of my operations as a franchise owner for more than 30 years. There is a business hierarchy with customers, employees, vendors and others, and it is my job as franchise owner to oversee this interworking system and make sure it runs correctly.”

While many of Moran’s owners received technical training while in the military that they have applied to their careers in automotive repair, others get into franchising to achieve entrepreneurial success in their careers.

Former members of the military make strong business leaders because of their experience motivating others, improving processes and carrying out a defined mission. Like the military, successful franchisees lead their employees to accomplish the mission as a team. The military also has extensive training and teaches unique skills used to carry out very specific tasks, much like franchising. This means a veteran can enter a completely new field and be likely to succeed by following the franchisor’s proven business model and completing the training program.

“Many of the veteran prospects we meet with have the work ethic, discipline and leadership we look for in franchise owners,” said Pete Baldine, President of Moran Family of Brands, and franchisor of Mr. Transmission/Milex. “One benefit franchising offers is the opportunity to become a business owner without having a background in marketing, accounting or sales. Franchise companies offer comprehensive training in all areas of business operations, and provide an established business model to follow. That often helps veterans overcome any lack of experience in a given field and gives them guidance on what they will need to do to become successful.”

Moran Family of Brands assigns experienced owners in the system to serve as mentors for first-year franchisees. Baldine also noted that as veterans entering the workforce during slow times may find it difficult to find high-paying job, business ownership can be a great alternative.

Moran Family of Brands is an active member of VetFran, an initiative that provides a $5,000 franchise fee discount, mentorship and training programs for any honorably discharged U.S. Veteran transition to civilian life.

Becoming a franchise owner with Moran is a great chance for those who have served in the military who are looking for the opportunity to apply the skills they have learned and be their own boss. For more information, please visit our website – http:https://moranfamilyofbrands.com/career-opportunity/ .

Moran Franchisee Profile – Mr. Transmission/Milex’s Chris Robinson of Sycamore, IL

Thu, 09 Nov 2017 08:00:00 GMT

In order to earn a customer service award, you have to do more than deliver exactly what the customer needs, when they need it. You must go above and beyond the norm to offer an experience unlike any other for each person that enters the store. That’s why this month, we’re highlighting Chris Robinson, owner of the Mr. Transmission/Milex Complete Auto Care in Sycamore, IL. Earlier this year, his location was ranked as the best automotive shop in his area by the Northern Star student newspaper of Northern Illinois University.

Chris started his career doing vehicle repairs in automotive dealerships after he graduated high school. He gained experience with several dealerships and out-of-market shops, and also worked at the Chicago branch of AAA. He said this early experience helped him gain an understanding of what would improve the customer experience at an auto shop, a perspective that helps shape his business to this day. He left the automotive industry briefly to earn his college degree, while also selling insurance and then brokering investments. This business experience came in handy when he decided to go into business for himself nearly four years ago.

Chris felt inspired to open a shop of his own when he realized how often a customer’s needs deviated from what he saw as ideal. One of the biggest issues he saw with other auto shops was that many seemed limited in what they could offer its customers. For example, a shop that specializes in engines would often not be able to address transmission trouble. Chris thought this kind of limited service options inconvenienced customers and drove business away. The desire to offer all the services customers needed factored into his decision to join Moran Family of Brands . With Moran, Chris found a franchise that not only had an excellent system and reputation, but also shared his outlook on customer service.

Chris developed his reputation from scratch in the Sycamore area. He has slowly built a legacy of customer service excellence, and his hard work is beginning to pay off two and a half years after he opened. His area is very close to Northern Illinois University, and he serves a large number of college students. He markets directly to the students, and even though they can be a price-sensitive and fickle population, they have become his biggest advocates. He was ranked as the best auto shop in the area by the student newspaper this year, an honor he displays with pride in his shop. He thinks the difference between his Mr. Transmission/Milex Complete Auto Care location and other shops in the area is his team’s willingness to go the extra mile to make sure customers are getting the absolute best service, without any excesses or mistakes. His approach builds trust and makes his shop the go-to location when someone in the area is having vehicle trouble.

Chris’ Mr. Transmission/Milex co-branded store in Sycamore, IL, is an example of what happens when a commitment to improving the customer experience is the guiding principle of a business from the very beginning. Chris earned more than just the loyalty of a notoriously hard-to-win consumer group — he’s changing the preconceived notions people have of automotive professionals, one rebuilt or repaired vehicle at a time. So this month, join us in congratulating Chris Robinson on his most recent honor.

Hints an Auto Repair Shop Isn’t Up to Snuff

Tue, 31 Oct 2017 07:00:00 GMT

Most vehicle owners share the struggle of finding an affordable and trustworthy auto repair shop. Without knowing the market, it can be difficult to find a knowledgeable and skilled mechanic with honest values. Don’t let the search discourage you! Every industry is plagued with a few rotten apples but for the most part, companies like Milex Complete Auto Care are in the business of providing a one-stop shop for reliable, unmatched repair and maintenance with superior service. To avoid the poor performers when shopping around for an auto repair shop, watch out for red flags like these:

Lack of Certifications
A list of mechanic certifications is a perfect way to judge the experience and expertise of a repair shop. Relevant certifications establish trust and instill a sense of security with customers. The Automotive Service Excellence Certification is standard when it comes to the repair industry. A shop that lacks various certifications may not be as dependable, so don’t be afraid to ask about these before having work done.

No Warranty on Services
A mechanic or repair shop that doesn’t extend a warranty on services performed likely isn’t up to par. That being said, a written warranty is very different from a verbal warranty. Be sure to receive a warranty in writing and not rely solely on goodwill. Written estimates are also a great way to hold a repair shop accountable for quotes and services. Make sure the estimate states the repair shop should contact you before performing work if it exceeds a certain cost. Protect yourself and your vehicle from dodgy workmanship and be sure to seek out a quality and reputable shop that stands behinds its work.

Excessive Recommendations
Do you ever feel like your mechanic is trying to cheat you by insisting you need more work done on your vehicle? What if you visit a repair shop for a cracked windshield and they insist you need proper wheel alignment and a new timing belt? While this may be true, you should be mindful of excessive recommendations. Don’t let a pushy mechanic pressure you into unnecessary work. Your mechanic should be honest and transparent about servicing your vehicle and whether the work is crucial or insignificant.

Service Mistakes
An obvious sign of a questionable repair shop is careless mistakes made while servicing your vehicle. Having your car in the shop is frustrating and inconvenient alone, but tack on some mistakes and it’s enough to send you over the edge. If a repair shop somehow manages to snap a belt or forgets to tighten a few lug nuts, you’ll be back in there before you gas up next. Be sure to take note of the condition of your vehicle before leaving it with a repair shop to ensure you are not faulted for their mistakes. A good shop will own its mistakes and be upfront with their customers.

Excuses, Excuses
Have you ever requested a repair shop to save your car’s old parts after servicing and then return to find some excuse for why they weren’t? Even if they are broken or covered in rust and oil, asking for old parts is a great way to guarantee the shop actually replaced them in the first place. If a repair shop doesn’t follow through it might be a sign to seek out a new mechanic.

Aggressive Demeanor
Another potential red flag when it comes to auto repair shops is their inability and unwillingness to answer customer questions and concerns. If a mechanic becomes aggressive or agitated by your query regarding costs or service specifics, it usually means they have something to hide. A good business will understand that questions arise, especially when expensive repairs are at hand. As a customer, you should feel comfortable inquiring about your vehicle. After all, it is your money being spent.

When it comes to seeking out a reputable auto repair shop, remember to consider these tips. Economical and dependable automotive service is not too much to ask for. With Milex Complete Auto Care, you won’t have to settle for anything less than you deserve.

Local Milex Business Owner Recognized as Franchisee of the Year

Fri, 27 Oct 2017 07:00:00 GMT

CHICAGO – Albert and Serina Daniel, Milex Complete Auto Care franchisees in Frederick, MD were recently honored for their contributions to franchising and recognized by the International Franchise Association (IFA) with its annual Franchisee of the Year Award.

The Daniels, who have been Milex franchisees for the past 7 years, are also a 2-time Franchisee of the year award winners; recognized by their peers for their outstanding performance and contributions as franchisees to help develop and grow the Milex brand and franchising

The Franchisee of the Year Award is a major portion of the IFA’s Public Affairs Conference. This annual conference brings hundreds of franchise business leaders together in Washington, D.C. to discuss important topics regarding franchising with lawmakers on Capitol Hill.

Before joining the Moran Family of Brands Franchise system, Albert served in our country's Military from 1989-1994. With franchising being a key economical driver for not only our country but also our economy, Albert plays a huge role his business and takes care of his customers. Albert attributes his success to making customers his top priority. The Daniels feel being present in your business is key. Being a leader and taking accountability is what the customer expects.

In addition to attending the IFA’s Public Affairs Conference, Albert and Serina have been invited to spend an evening in Chicago to attend the Alzheimer’s Association Annual Gala Event; an organization that has become Moran’s choice charity over the past several years.

“Our franchisees’ success is our success,” said Barb Moran-Goodrich, owner and CEO of Moran Family of Brands. “Abert and Serina are consistently top performing franchisees in our system and highly active in their communities. Being repeat winners of this award, I couldn’t be more proud of their continued accomplishments.”

Daniel’s Milex Complete Auto Care is located at 100-A Bucheimer Rd. in Frederick.

About Milex Complete Auto Care

For more than 45 years, Milex Complete Auto Care has been providing the highest quality automotive maintenance and repair service. Milex Complete Auto Care is a part of Moran Family of Brands, which provides specialty products and services in virtually every aspect of the automotive aftermarket through six franchise brands and more than 140 franchise brands nationwide. For more information on Moran Family of Brands visit www.milexcompleteautocare.com.

About Moran Family of Brands

Midlothian, Illinois-based Moran Family of Brands is one of the leading franchisors of general automotive repair, transmission repair and automotive accessory centers in the country. Moran Family of Brands provides specialty products and services in virtually every aspect of the automotive aftermarket through six franchise brands and more than 140 franchise brands nationwide including: Mr. Transmission USA service centers (Mr. Transmission, Multistate Transmission, Dr. Nick Transmission); Alta Mere Automotive Outfitters; and Milex Complete Auto Care centers. For more information on Moran Family of Brands visit www.MoranFamilyOfBrands.com or call 708-389-5922. For franchise opportunities with Moran Family of Brands, please call us.

Local Milex Business Owner Recognized as Franchisee of the Year, Delivers “Franchising Votes” Message to Congress

Thu, 26 Oct 2017 07:00:00 GMT

Local Milex Business Owner Recognized as Franchisee of the Year, Delivers “Franchising Votes” Message to Congress

CHICAGO – Milex Complete Auto Care franchisee Albert Daniel of Frederick was recently recognized for his contributions to franchising and honored by the International Franchise Association (IFA) with its annual Franchisee of the Year Award.

Daniel was one of 48 people nationwide, representing 31 franchise systems, recognized for their outstanding performance and the contributions they have made to enhance the growth and development of franchising.

“The IFA is proud to recognize Albert’s outstanding efforts with the Franchisee of the Year Award,” said IFA Chairman Jon Luther, Chairman, Dunkin’ Brands, Chairman, Arby’s Restaurant Group. “The franchising community is an important component of the U.S. economy due to the hard work of these exemplary individuals who have helped bolster the growth of the industry.”

The Franchisee of the Year Award is a major component of the IFA’s Public Affairs Conference, which recently brought more than 400 franchise business leaders together in Washington, D.C. to carry the key messages of franchising to lawmakers on Capitol Hill. During the two-day event, which was held September 10-11, franchise industry leaders met with over 200 congressional offices about issues important to the future of franchising such as tax certainty, healthcare reform and access to credit.

According to a study conducted for the IFA Educational Foundation by PricewaterhouseCoopers on the economic impact of franchising, there are more than 825,000 franchised businesses in operation across the country which is indirectly responsible for providing 18 million jobs and generating $2.1 trillion in economic output.

“I am thrilled to be given this honor and to do my part to increase awareness about how franchising can contribute to economic recovery and job growth. This is a truly humbling experience,” said Daniel, whose franchise has been servicing the local community since 2008. “As I look back, and more importantly look forward, I do so with a great sense of pride and optimism about what the future holds.”

Daniel’s Milex Complete Auto Care is located at 706 N. East Street in Frederick.

About Milex Complete Auto Care

For more than 40 years, Milex Complete Auto Care has been providing the highest quality automotive maintenance and repair service. Milex Complete Auto Care is a part of Moran Family of Brands, which provides specialty products and services in virtually every aspect of the automotive aftermarket through six franchise brands and more than 140 franchise brands nationwide including: Mr. Transmission USA service centers (Mr. Transmission, Multistate Transmission, Dr. Nick Transmission); Alta Mere “Toys for Your Car”; and Milex Complete Auto Care centers and now SmartView Window Solutions. For more information on Moran Family of Brands visit www.MoranFamilyOfBrands.com or call 708-389-5922. For franchise opportunities with Moran Family of Brands, please call us.

Bad Habits That Are Destroying Your Car

Wed, 18 Oct 2017 07:00:00 GMT

Damage to your car begins accumulating the moment you drive it off the lot. We all know this, but there are ways to speed up this damage without even realizing it, setting yourself up for some hefty repair bills in the future. Unfortunately, many of the following are common habits, and Milex Complete Auto Care technicians see drivers unwittingly shortening the lives of their cars every day. Here are some of the worst habits we’ve seen, and how you can turn them around to prevent damage to your car.

Driving Habit: Letting gas get too low
The temptation to drive with a low gas level is pervasive. After all, who wants to take time out of their day to fuel up, or spend the money to do it? Unfortunately, letting your gas level get too low can damage your car in the long term. Here’s why: Over time, sediment can build up in the bottom of your fuel tank. This is fine, provided your gas level doesn’t get too low. But once your fuel injection system starts draining from the bottom of your tank, it can pick up this sediment, and it can get caught further along the fuel system, even in the engine. This sediment tears up the inside of your fuel system and engine, ultimately requiring expensive repairs.

Maintenance Habit: Going too long between oil changes
Yeah, we get it — you’d rather do anything but get an oil change. But your engine oil serves a vital purpose in your vehicle, and waiting too long to get it changed is asking for trouble. Your oil cools the engine, cleans engine parts and lubricates the engine as it passes through your drivetrain. As a result, the oil becomes dirty, and it can no longer perform these functions well. Oil can also burn off, which can quickly deplete your car’s oil reserves and leave you broken down on the highway. So, make sure you know your car’s service intervals, and get your oil replaced before the wear and tear adds up.

Driving Habit: Rapid Acceleration & Braking
You might feel like a racecar driver, but your little family car is not equipped for quick maneuvers or sudden changes in speed. Your car is designed for safety first, which means that precision, handling and other advantages that performance vehicles possess are completely foreign to your car. Rapid acceleration can cause damage all along your drivetrain, and braking too rapidly can wear down your brake pads and cause them to overheat, which will reduce their effectiveness as you drive. In the end, moves like this can cause rapid wear and tear on your car, which earns you no street cred, no adoring fans at the car show — just a hefty bill at the automotive shop.

Maintenance Habit: Carrying Too Much Extra Cargo
Always Be Prepared. It’s the motto of the Boy Scouts, but it doesn’t have to apply to your commute each day. How many of the things in your car do you need on a daily basis? If you can purge your car of any extra weight it might be carrying, you’ll probably end up relieving some of the burden on your vehicle. This will ultimately reduce the amount of work your engine has to do to accelerate and make braking easier. It will also protect your suspension system by reducing the resistance it meets as it navigates your car over rough or uneven roads.

Driving Habit: Not Using the Parking Brake
Because it is also known as the emergency brake, many people only associate the parking brake with situations in which they have to brake suddenly. But using the parking brake every time you turn off your car’s ignition, even if you aren’t parked on an incline, will protect your car’s transmission. Even if you drive a car with automatic transmission, when you park without engaging the parking brake, the weight of your car rests on a single piece of the transmission system, called the parking pawl. The parking brake, once engaged, can distribute your car’s weight more evenly, and keep your transmission safe from damage.

Maintenance Habit: Ignoring Subtle Warnings
If you begin hearing odd noises from your car, smelling odors or feeling a difference in your car’s handling, you could be one of the lucky few who gets a warning before a major problem with your vehicle. Don’t waste this opportunity! Quickly report what you’re experiencing to your trusted automotive technician, so they can evaluate the issue and recommend a course of action to prevent extensive damage. Simple preventive maintenance could keep you from getting stranded on the side of the road.

It can be easy to think that your bad car habits are no big deal. That’s because most of them cause damage over a long stretch of time. But trust us, letting these behaviors continue can be disastrous down the line. Don’t let some easily-fixed habits ruin your car before its time. Visit your local Milex Complete Auto Care or Mr. Transmission for routine maintenance and tips on how to preserve your car’s good health.

Mr. Transmission/Milex Franchisees Help Hurricane Harvey Recovery Efforts

Tue, 10 Oct 2017 07:00:00 GMT

In late August, southern Texas was pelted with heavy rains, storm surges and high winds, which devastated property in much of the area. Stories are still surfacing of the damage wreaked by Hurricane Harvey, and many experts estimate it will take at least a year for the area to return to normal. Gordon and Carolyn Ricossa and their employees of the Mr. Transmission & Milex Complete Auto Care in Beaumont, TX, found themselves in the thick of the storm with very little in the way of preparation. When Hurricane Harvey first hit the area, Gordon sent all the technicians home to wait it out in safety. That would be the last time they would be able to reach the store for 10 days.

The Beaumont store was fortunate to avoid flooding, but all of the roads leading to the shop were closed due to high water for more than week. Once Gordon, Carolyn and their technicians could reach the shop, they had to get straight to work, and were only able to use small generators to charge the phones and computers (no lights, air supply, or lifts) for two weeks while the power was out in their area.

The team had had a long list of vehicles to work on prior to the storm, but almost immediately after reopening, people began visiting the shop with water-damaged vehicles that they desperately needed to get running again. Gordon and his team of technicians prioritized these vehicles, because they knew what people in these situations were already going through, and wanted to help them. In many cases, these water-damaged cars were a family’s only mode of transportation. Gordon said giving back in this way has been an important part of helping his community recover.

Gordon and Carolyn know that they were very fortunate. Their shop was spared the worst destruction, and they are now in a position to help others get back on their feet. Going forward, the Ricossas plan to continue supporting relief and recovery efforts. The couple has so far been helping at the church evacuee center by cooking meals and donating clothes and supplied to the church distribution center. They are also helping two of their technicians whose houses experienced flood damage by assisting them with clothes, food, and time off to recover what items are salvageable.

Gordon said the best way to assist others affected by the hurricane is through monetary donations. All of the money Donated to local churches and organizations involved in the recovery process will go directly to the people affected by the hurricane. “If people want to help, I would recommend finding local churches and donating money to them,” said Gordon. “The churches in our area are doing a lot of work in housing people, feeding people and helping families get back in their homes. They’re in the area helping people who have lost everything.”

Hurricane Harvey delivered destruction to parts of Texas, but the strength and perseverance Gordon and Carolyn have seen in their community have assured them that the community will get through this difficult time.

Milex Franchisees of the Year – Albert and Serina Daniel

Fri, 08 Sep 2017 07:00:00 GMT

How do you know when you have a winning formula? Maybe winning the Milex Franchisee of the Year award three separate times could be a hint! Albert and Serina Daniel, owners and operators of two Milex franchise locations — Frederick and Boonsboro, MD — know the secret to good business, and they have built up their Milex Complete Auto Care locations to a level of quality that stands out among franchises throughout the nation. We caught up with the two powerhouse franchisees to see what the secret was, and how other Milex franchisees could replicate their success.
Albert grew up around the automotive industry, which awakened an early passion for vehicle repair. He learned the basics from his father, and his skills only improved when he entered the US Navy. Once he figured out the basics, it was easy for him to transfer his skills, and he spent the rest of his civilian career in the automotive repair business.
After an injury at work at a previous job, his wife Serina, gave him a homework assignment to help advance their careers. She asked him to look for franchise businesses that might be good for the two of them to invest in. This is how they found Moran Family of Brands, and were introduced to Milex Complete Auto Care.
Once they decided to look into Moran, the rest happened quickly. The couple opened their first location in 2007, just as the economy was beginning its historic downturn and the government was starting the Car Allowance Rebate System, otherwise known as the “Cash for Clunkers” campaign. The first few months were tough, as with any fledgling business, and these additional challenges didn’t make the situation any easier. But when they started to break even six months later, they knew they had done the right thing.
“Those first few months were definitely stressful,” said Serina. “There were times in the beginning where he [Albert] was working until midnight and we only had one other mechanic on-hand. We had to learn to start spreading out scheduling and manage incoming tasks so he wouldn’t spend his whole life in the shop.”
Serina and Albert have built a reputation in their area that sustains their business success. In fact, their community service ethos includes one ironclad principle: always be able to solve a customer’s car troubles. This has led Albert to make himself and his staff experts in repairing cars of all makes and models. It means no customer is turned away, which lets people know they can count on their local Milex for their car repair and maintenance needs. It’s that trust that has grown their customer base, through repeat business and referrals, leading to the couple’s third win during their short time in business.
Albert and Serina have two big pieces of advice for business owners who want to gain a reputation for excellence. The first is to keep up with the rapidly-changing technology in your industry. “Cars are changing every day, in terms of the technology they contain,” said Albert. “The best thing you can do to keep from turning away a customer is stay on top of technology.”
Serina advises, “Social media can be fantastic, but business owners must keep a balance between communication channels for customers. Many people still prefer a phone call or email to a Facebook post.”
Albert Daniel sets an example for the franchisees the Moran system, and looks to share his advice and support others. He serves on the Franchise Advisory Alliance and has long been a trainer and mentor to other Milex owners. The secret ingredient that sets the Daniel’s franchises apart isn’t tough to find — consistent, hard work and a belief that every business decision should be made with the customer’s needs in mind. So, join us in congratulating Albert and Serina for a job well done, for the third time since 2007!

Summer Vacation Trip Hazards

Thu, 24 Aug 2017 07:00:00 GMT

Summer Vacation Trip Hazards

Sunshine, warm weather and easy driving mean summertime is the perfect opportunity to take a road trip with friends and family. Unfortunately, those long car trips can come with some hazards, including rough roads, car trouble and sun damage. Luckily, there are steps you can take to dodge those road blocks and keep your vacation running smoothly.

Brace Yourself for Wear and Tear

Before you embark on your epic vacation, it’s important to make sure your car is in top form. The road can really wear down your car over time, so it’s best to be prepared. Regular oil changes, preventative maintenance and proper brake care will help stay you off the side of the road, and keep you cruising toward your destination. A broken-down vehicle is a sure-fire way to ruin a vacation in a heartbeat. Make sure to schedule a pre-trip maintenance appointment at your local Milex Complete Auto Care store to help you avoid the hassle of needing a tow truck later down the road.

Be Ready for Rough Roads Ahead

The more you drive, the more likely you are to come across construction, uneven roadways and even a pothole or two. While the occasional small bump in the road may not affect your car overly much, repeated exposure can lead to serious problems, particularly in terms of steering, suspension and alignment. It’s important to properly maintain your vehicle so you can enjoy a smooth, safe ride to paradise.

Protect Against Sun Damage

Finally, a vacation hazard that is often overlooked is damage from the sun. What many motorists fail to realize is you are actually at risk for sunburn and sun damage while in your vehicle. In fact, leathery, wrinkled skin along the left forearm is a common ailment amongst long-haul truckers – the result of years of sun damage built up from long days spent with an arm along the window. Keep yourself safe and take preventative measures. Professionals with Alta Mere The Automotive Outfitters can install window tint to block more than 99 percent of harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. It also reduces the heat inside the car, making for a more comfortable ride. Window film can protect your interior from fading and cracking. With the help of an automotive window tint, you can spend your summer enjoying the sun, not suffering from it.

Road trips are a wonderful tradition. Load up the family, hit the road and make those memories – just make sure your car is up for the challenge.

Recalculating

Tue, 15 Aug 2017 07:00:00 GMT

Moran Family of Brands President & CEO Barb Moran-Goodrich recently appeared on an episode of the “Recalculating” podcast, which focuses on small business and entrepreneurship. Moran-Goodrich spoke with program hosts Dan Perkins and Don Mazzella on a wide range of topics such as about the history of the company, the auto repair field and the future outlook of the industry.

Here are some of the topics discussed in the interview:

Listen to Moran-Goodrich’s full interview in the of “Recalculating” podcast below:

Finding A Repair Shop You Can Trust

Fri, 23 Jun 2017 07:00:00 GMT

If you’re not a car care expert yourself, it can be hard to ignore that little voice inside your head that can’t help but wonder if you’re about to get ripped off every time you pull into a repair shop. A survey conducted by the Consumer Reports National Research Center found that about 50 percent of people completely trust their local shop to fix their cars. That means that half of the respondents don’t trust the people who repair their cars! If you don’t know a lot about cars, you can at least know the right questions to ask and things to look for that can help you feel better about your decision.

Get referrals from friends. These folks have done the hard work for you already, and have found an auto repair shop they know people can trust. In some unfortunate cases, they’ve made the costly mistakes so you don’t have to. The fact that thousands of people rely on Milex Complete Auto Care speaks for itself. For more than 50 years, consumers have trusted our services — so you can feel good about putting one of your most valuable possessions in our care.

Look for a clean and friendly shop. It may seem simple, but looks really do matter. The shop should be clean, with a friendly reception area. The work area should be neat and orderly. At Milex, it’s our goal to restore integrity to the auto industry, and we know details like this matter.

Look for certifications on display. All those plaques and certifications are there for more than just decoration! Milex Complete Auto Care is Better Business Bureau (BBB) accredited. All of our Master Technicians are required to continue personal update training for maintaining Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certifications.

Mechanics specifically trained for your type of car. We pride ourselves on our high standards of quality and honest assessment of every job we do. From a simple oil change to a transmission overhaul, our highly experienced and skilled mechanics are qualified to work on any car model and make.

Up-to-date equipment. Today’s vehicles are primarily computer controlled and utilize sophisticated technology to operate properly. The use of this technology plays an important role in the diagnosis of your vehicle’s performance. At Milex Complete Auto Care, we have state-of-the-art computer diagnostic equipment and technicians that are trained to use it. We can pinpoint your vehicle’s failure and tell you exactly what is needed to fix it so you can be “road ready” in no time.

Watch for warranties. Consumer advocacy sites recommend warranties on parts and labor for at least three months or 4,000 miles. Your local Milex cares about providing quality work and service. That is why "we offer a warranty that meets or even exceeds these recommendations.

Get an estimate in writing. A huge and unexpected repair bill is the kind of surprise we could all do without. Milex Complete Auto Care offers honest and affordable service. We will provide you with an estimate and walk you through every step of the process.

A little something extra. Each Milex Complete Auto Care location is backed by our nationally recognized company, but each franchise is independently owned and operated. That means it’s your friends and neighbors providing the services. They’re connected to the community and committed to getting you “road ready”! You can click here to find a Milex repair shop near you.

Keep Your Cool – Check Your Air Conditioner

Fri, 26 May 2017 07:00:00 GMT

It’s one of those things that we often take for granted. Every time you’ve reached for those buttons, turned those knobs and set those dials, your air conditioner has always worked for you. That chilly blast is a blessing of arctic comfort in a vehicle where temperatures can rise well above 150 degrees in the summer. So, it’s no surprise that you lose your cool when there’s no breeze at the push of a button or no cool when you crank a temperature dial down as far as it will go.

What you can do

Getting stuck in traffic is enough to get even the most patient person hot under the collar, but getting stuck in traffic with no air conditioning in the middle of the summer can leave you steaming — literally. Vehicle HVAC systems are complex, and unless you’re familiar with how to work on them and have the necessary tools, it might be best to leave that to the experts at your local Milex Complete Auto Care location. However, there are a few basic preventative maintenance steps you can take to make sure you and your family keep cool this summer.

As with many things automotive, small problems left unresolved can turn into bigger (and more costly!) issues down the road. A thorough system check at a Milex Complete Auto Care location can keep you and your family road ready!

Give you’re A/C a helping hand

There are some simple steps you can take that will help you’re A/C work more efficiently. Rolling down the windows and driving for a bit before you turn on the A/C will help vent out some of the hottest air from the cabin, making it easier for you’re A/C to do its job. It’s always a good idea to start on the lowest setting and work your way up as needed. Using your recirculation feature will also reduce the strain on your system. Finally, consider a window film. Window tint has been proven to greatly reduce interior surface temperatures.

The summer heat doesn’t have to get you down! A little preparation can leave you way ahead and keep the rising temperatures from ruining your days. Make a quick visit to your local Milex Complete Auto Care or Alta Mere shop to get your car’s summer prep handled.