Monthly Archives: May 2023

How to Assess Your Car's Suspension By Doing the Bounce Test

How to Assess Your Car's Suspension By Doing the Bounce Test

One essential aspect of car maintenance is the regular inspection of the suspension system. You can do this by performing the bounce test - a simple yet effective way to assess your car's shocks and struts.  The bounce test is a visual and tactile method used to evaluate the condition of your vehicle's suspension system. It helps identify potential problems like worn-out shocks, which can impact your vehicle's stability, handling, and overall ride comfort. By detecting suspension problems early on, you can address them promptly, preventing further damage and ensuring a safer driving experience. Steps to Perform the Bounce Test Park your car on a flat and level surface. Ensure that the parking brake is engaged and the engine is turned off. Press down firmly on the front or rear of the vehicle. Apply your weight and force on the bumper, and push the car down with all your strength. Release the pressure and observe the vehicle's response. Pay attention to how ... read more

Does Your Car’s AC Need R134a or R1234YF Refrigerant?

If you cannot answer this question – worry not. At Oceanworks Berkeley we are one of the few Bay Area shops that offer both the old refrigerant, the R134a, as well as the new R1234YF refrigerant. R1234YF is specially formulated to be friendly to the environment. Equipment designed to work with the new refrigerant has different fittings and special on-board sensors to prevent R134a from contaminating the new R1234YF refrigerant. So if you are not sure which refrigerant your car uses, make an appointment with Oceanworks Berkeley. We will check manufacturer database to determine which refrigerant is required by your vehicle, and will get your car’s ac serviced the same day. We made a conscious choice to offer ac services regardless of which refrigerant a vehicle may need. We purchased equipment that allows us to services vehicles using the old as well as the new refrigerant. So no matter which refrigerant your vehicle requires, we can complete ac service and provide you wit ... read more

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