Nick's Auto Care Garage.

15/07/2025

Driving with low fuel in your car can lead to several potential issues, including:

1️⃣. Fuel Pump Damage: -The fuel pump relies on gasoline for lubrication and cooling. Running low on fuel can cause the pump to overheat and wear out prematurely, leading to costly repairs.

2️⃣. Sediment and Debris:- Over time, sediment can accumulate at the bottom of the fuel tank. When you drive on low fuel, the fuel pump may draw this debris into the engine, which can clog fuel filters and injectors, leading to performance issues.

3️⃣. Increased Risk of Running Out of Gas-: Driving on a low fuel level increases the risk of running out of gas, which can leave you stranded and require roadside assistance.

4️⃣. Fuel Efficiency: -When the fuel level is low, the fuel pump may work harder to draw fuel, which can negatively impact fuel efficiency and performance.

5️⃣. Potential for Engine Misfire:- Low fuel levels can lead to inconsistent fuel delivery, which may cause the engine to misfire or run poorly.

6️⃣. Inconvenience:- Running out of fuel can be inconvenient and time-consuming, as you may need to find a gas station or wait for help.

7️⃣. Safety Concerns: If you run out of fuel in a dangerous location, such as on a busy highway or in an isolated area, it can pose safety risks to you and your passengers.

To avoid these issues, it's generally a good practice to refuel when your tank is about a quarter full. This helps ensure the longevity of your vehicle and reduces the risk of unexpected problems.

14/07/2025

He Thought It Was a Jackpot… Until NTSA Asked for One Thing He Never Had‼️

“Josephat, congratulations! That’s a steal!” his friends clapped him on the back after he landed not one — but two deals at a police auction: a clean-looking Probox and a bodaboda for deliveries. Price? Way below market. Papers? Stamped. Receipts? Received. He was sure he had won.

But weeks later, at the NTSA office, reality slapped him like a pothole in Githurai.

“Sir, this vehicle was deregistered. We can’t transfer ownership until you apply for re-registration.”

Josephat blinked. “What do you mean deregistered? I have the auction receipt. I bought it from the police!”

And that’s where the journey began.

🚨 Here’s What Most Buyers Like Josephat Don’t Know:
When vehicles or motorbikes are sold through police auctions, many have been:

Deregistered by NTSA after being written off, stolen, or decommissioned.

Declared unroadworthy and marked for parts.

Classified under government or parastatal use, requiring clearance for civilian use.

In short — buying it is one thing. Putting it back on the road legally is another.

So, What Should Josephat Have Known?
1. A Police Auction Receipt Is Not a Logbook
It's proof of purchase, not road ownership. You’ll still need to follow NTSA’s re-registration process, which involves:

A fresh vehicle inspection.

A DCI forensic check (especially if the unit was linked to a crime or stolen).

Application to NTSA through eCitizen, supported by affidavits and clearance letters.

Sometimes, even a court order — especially if the original owner was deceased or the unit was government-owned.

2. Re-registration is Not Automatic
It’s a sensitive process, because NTSA doesn’t just hand out second chances. If the vehicle was deregistered due to crime, heavy damage, or corruption, your application might be denied — regardless of how much you paid.

3. Some Vehicles Cannot Be Re-registered
Category C write-offs (too damaged) and vehicles with cloned identities may be permanently banned. That’s why even when you buy from police auctions, a forensic verification is still critical.

What Can Josephat Do Now?
He must:

Apply for a DCI tape lift and verification report.

Visit NTSA for technical inspection.

Write an affidavit explaining how he acquired the unit.

Attach the auction documents, police clearance, and his ID.

Submit for NTSA re-registration review on eCitizen.

If approved, NTSA will issue a new record, and then he can apply for logbook registration.

If denied… well, he may have bought scrap — legally.

Are You Like Josephat?
Have you bought or are planning to buy a vehicle from:

Police or government auctions?

A friend who got it “cheap” after an impound?

A parastatal or county disposal event?

Then ask yourself:
Was it ever deregistered?
Has it ever been re-registered?
Do you even know what to check?

Buying is easy.
Making it legal is the real deal.

🧠 Don’t guess your way into trouble.

This could save you money — or worse, years of legal drama.

01/07/2025

If your oil level keeps dropping and you constantly need to top it up, it’s a sign something’s wrong. Here’s a breakdown of likely causes and signs to watch for:

1. Oil leaks:-
- External leaks from the oil pan, valve cover gasket, oil filter, or oil drain plug.
- Signs: Oil spots under the car, oil residue on engine parts, burning oil smell.

2. Worn piston rings or cylinder walls:-
- Causes oil to slip into the combustion chamber and burn with fuel.
- Signs: Blue smoke from exhaust, poor acceleration, increased fuel use.

3. Faulty falve seals:-
- Oil seeps into cylinders through the valves.
- Signs: Blue smoke during startup or after idling.

4. PCV (Positive Crankcase Ventilation) valve failure
- A bad PCV valve can cause oil to be pulled into the intake and burned.
- Signs: Rough idling, oil in the air intake, increased oil consumption.

5. Turbocharger issues:-
- Oil leaks internally in the turbo.
- Signs: Blue smoke, oil in intercooler piping.

OTHER SIGNS TO CHECK
- Exhaust color: Blue = burning oil, white = coolant leak, black = fuel-related.
- Engine misfires or rough idling
- Low engine compression
- Oil light or check engine light
- Drop in performance or overheating

28/05/2025

Bringing services at your door step 👌🏿. Call to make a booking.

28/05/2025

Here's a more detailed breakdown:
Summer Tires: Designed for dry and wet roads in warmer temperatures, offering excellent grip and handling.
Winter Tires: Provide superior grip on snow and ice, as well as wet roads in cold conditions.
All-Season Tires: A compromise between summer and winter tires, suitable for a wider range of temperatures and road conditions.
4x4 Tires: Offer better traction on off-road terrains like mud, grass, and snow, without clogging.
Performance Tires: Focus on high-speed handling and cornering, often with unique tread patterns.
Run-Flat Tires: Allow continued driving after a puncture, adding a safety feature.
Highway Tires: Designed for highway driving, prioritizing comfort and fuel efficiency.
Touring Tires: Prioritize comfort and traction year-round, suitable for everyday driving.

26/05/2025

UNDERSTANDING TOTAL LOSS : MOTOR INSURANCE

In Kenya, a motor vehicle is typically declared a write-off (or total loss) when the cost of repairs exceeds 50% to 60% of its pre accident value.
This threshold is commonly applied by insurers to determine whether repairing the vehicle is economically viable or if declaring it a write-off is more appropriate.

Key Points:

* Threshold for Write-Off : If the repair costs surpass 50% to 60% of the vehicle's pre accident value, insurers often consider the vehicle a write-off. For instance, if a car is valued at KES 1,000,000, and repair estimates exceed KES 500,000 to KES 600,000, it may be deemed uneconomical to repair .

* Policy Excess : Insurance policies may include an excess clause , which is the amount the policyholder must pay out-of-pocket before the insurer covers the remaining costs. This excess is typically a percentage of the vehicle's value, such as 2.5% to 5%. For example, for a vehicle valued at KES 1,000,000, a 5% excess would amount to KES 50,000 .

* Salvage and Disposal : Once a vehicle is declared a write-off, insurers may offer the policyholder the option to retain the salvage (the damaged vehicle) for a reduced payout or to surrender it. The insurer then typically handles the disposal, which may involve selling the salvage or scrapping it.

* Market Factors : The decision to write off a vehicle can also be influenced by external factors such as the availability and cost of spare parts. For example, a weakened local currency or supply chain disruptions can increase repair costs, leading insurers to opt for write-offs more frequently .

Recommendations:

* Review Your Policy : Understand the terms of your insurance policy, including the agreed value, excess amounts, and conditions under which a vehicle may be written off.

* Obtain Multiple Assessments : In the event of significant damage, consider getting assessments from independent assessors to ensure a fair evaluation of repair costs.

* Consider Salvage Options : If your vehicle is written off, evaluate whether retaining the salvage is beneficial, especially if you can afford to repair it independently or if it holds sentimental value.

25/05/2025

The image illustrates the correct sequence for tightening lug nuts on a wheel, using a star pattern to ensure even pressure distribution. This method helps prevent wheel damage and ensures secure attachment.

Step 1:
Initially, each nut should be snug, not fully tightened.

Step 2:
Tighten the nuts in the numbered sequence shown (1-2-3-4-5), following the star pattern.

Step 3:
Use a torque wrench to achieve the vehicle manufacturer's specified torque. This ensures each nut is tightened to the correct tension, avoiding over- or under-tightening.

Step 4:
After driving a short distance, it's advisable to re-torque the nuts to confirm they remain properly tightened.

24/05/2025

22/01/2025

Ladies, allow me to speak to you.. usikuwe mjinga... do you see this behavior? It looks so fun when you are out on road trip with the boys but this is the easiest route to a life on the wheelchairs ♿️. When you travel around I want you to ask yourself how vehicle safety mechanisms work.. if a vehicle detects trouble at high speed, how does it behave? What and what does the car deploy to protect the occupants? .. first, in this position you cant use a seatbelt meaning you will not be strapped to the seat, then the place you are placing your legs is called dashboard and it has a weak point which covers something called airbag and in case the vehicle hits something the dashboard is supposed to burst a hole, release a white bag that gets inflated with some gas to make a baloon that is means to hold your chest and face to keep you away from slamming the dashboard with your face.

If the airbag deploys and your feet are resting on the dashboard, the baloon created will push your legs with some lightning speed, your knees will slam your face and your spine will snap into pieces and that damage is irreparable my dear, that is a wheelchair award for you. I want you to also remember that dashboard is made of some hard plastics and the moment they burst before they go to the direction the manufacturer has designed them to fly away from your face, they will slice your legs reel deep.. again, you might be "lucky" the car doesnt deploy airbags, but very very unlucky because you will slide over the dashboard feet first and slam the windscreen then fly out of the car and the car will run you over on the ground, that means some roses on the grave and some black tshirts for your family and friends..

If you are on that road trip, sit upright and buckle up, dont be excited by petty things that can cause permanent damage on your life.. if you must sleep in the moving car make sure you are sitting in the back seat not the front passenger seat. A small accident can slam your head on the car doors before the seatbelt grabs you the damage will be massive so if you are feeling sleepy go to the back and buckle up and sleep.. mothers with small babies we will discuss your case in a different post..

Road safety campaign‼️

21/01/2025

📌 10 Most Common Tire Problems and How to Prevent Them:

Keeping your tires in good shape is crucial for a safe and smooth ride. Hooper's Tire Outlet is here to help you recognize and prevent the 10 most common tire problems and issues drivers face. By following our tips, you'll ensure the longevity of your tires and avoid any unexpected mishaps on the road.

1. Uneven Tire Wear:

Uneven tire wear is one of the most common tire problems, and it can decrease your vehicle's performance and safety. To prevent this issue, regularly rotate your tires and maintain proper tire inflation. Also, check your vehicle's alignment and suspension components for any irregularities causing uneven wear.

2. Tire Puncture:

Tire punctures are another frequent tire issue due to sharp objects on the road, like nails or glass. To minimize the risk of punctures, inspect your tires for damage regularly and avoid driving on debris-laden roads. You can keep a tire repair kit in your vehicle for emergency situations.

3. Bald Tires:

Bald tires result from excessive wear, leaving the tire's tread dangerously low. This can lead to reduced traction and an increased risk of hydroplaning. To prevent bald tires, monitor your tire's tread depth and replace it when it reaches the minimum safe depth, as recommended by the tire manufacturer.

4. Tire Blowout:

Tire blowouts are sudden and dangerous tire issues caused by excessive wear, underinflation, or damage. To prevent blowouts, maintain proper tire pressure, inspect your tires for damage, and replace them when necessary.

5. Sidewall Damage:

Sidewall damage is a common tire problem that can result from impacts with curbs, potholes, or other obstacles. To avoid sidewall damage, drive carefully, and avoid obstacles that could harm your tires. Inspect your tires regularly and replace them if you notice any cuts, bulges, or punctures in the sidewall.

6. Underinflation:

Underinflated tires can lead to poor fuel economy, reduced handling, and excessive wear. Ensure your tires are always inflated to the recommended pressure as stated in your vehicle's owner's manual or on the tire information placard.

7. Overinflation:

Overinflated tires can cause a harsh ride, uneven wear, and an increased risk of a blowout. As with underinflation, maintain your tire's pressure according to the manufacturer's recommendations to prevent overinflation.

8. Cupping or Scalloping:

Cupping or scalloping refers to uneven wear patterns on your tires that can be caused by improper alignment or worn suspension components. To prevent this common tire issue, have your vehicle's alignment and suspension checked regularly by a professional.

9. Vibration:

Vibration while driving can be a sign of various tire problems, including imbalance, misalignment, or damaged tires. To prevent vibration, have your tires balanced and your vehicle's alignment checked regularly.

10. Flat Spots:

Flat spots on tires can occur when a vehicle is parked for an extended period, or due to hard braking and skidding. To prevent flat spots, avoid abrupt braking, and if your vehicle will be parked for a long time, consider using tire cradles or periodically moving the vehicle to redistribute the weight on the tires.

21/01/2025

Signs of a Bad Oxygen Sensor...✍🏾

The oxygen sensor in your vehicle plays a crucial role in monitoring and adjusting the air-fuel mixture in your engine. When this sensor malfunctions, it can lead to various issues that can impact your vehicle's performance and fuel efficiency.

Recognizing the Signs of a Faulty Oxygen Sensor

Engine performance issues, such as hesitation, stalling, rough idling, or a lack of power, can also be a sign of an oxygen sensor problem.

Furthermore, excessive black or white smoke from the exhaust can indicate an issue with the air-fuel mixture, which the oxygen sensor is responsible for monitoring and adjusting.

Here are some common DTC codes associated with oxygen sensor malfunctions:

- P0130: Oxygen Sensor Circuit Malfunction (Bank 1 Sensor 1)
- P0131: Oxygen Sensor Heater Circuit Malfunction (Bank 1 Sensor 1)
- P0132: Oxygen Sensor Circuit High Voltage (Bank 1 Sensor 1)
- P0133: Oxygen Sensor Circuit Low Voltage (Bank 1 Sensor 1)
- P0134: Oxygen Sensor Circuit No Activity Detected (Bank 1 Sensor 1)
- P0135: Oxygen Sensor Heater Circuit Open (Bank 1 Sensor 1)
- P0136: Oxygen Sensor Heater Control Circuit Open (Bank 1 Sensor 1)
- P0137: Oxygen Sensor Heater Control Circuit Low (Bank 1 Sensor 1)