Latest News, Tips & More | Mr. Cool Auto Center

Beauty Before Age?

Many drivers assume that a car’s age automatically determines how much it is worth at trade-in time. While year and mileage do influence value, they are not the whole story. In many cases, a newer vehicle with poor maintenance history can be worth less than an older vehicle that has been consistently cared for.

This is why service records play such a major role during trade-in evaluations.

Consistency Builds Confidence

Regular oil changes, tire rotations, brake inspections, and recommended maintenance create a clear picture of responsible ownership. When records show that a vehicle has been serviced on schedule, it signals reliability to future buyers and appraisers alike.

That history demonstrates not just care, but also peace of mind. Buyers want confidence that routine maintenance was never ignored.

Skipping Maintenance Lowers Value

Gaps in service history can create concerns, even if the vehicle feels fine during a short test drive. Inconsistent care can raise questions about long-term wear and potential repairs down the road.

Vehicles without maintenance documentation may still perform well, but less certainty often leads to more conservative appraisals.

Digital Records Count Too

Service history does not need to be stored in a physical folder. Many maintenance providers maintain digital records that can be referenced during evaluations. Online service logs, dealership service histories, and manufacturer databases often help verify past care.

If you do have physical receipts or printed service summaries, bringing them along can be helpful during your visit.

How History Affects Trade-In Offers

Two vehicles of the same year and mileage can receive different trade-in values simply based on service documentation. Consistent records reduce risk for future owners, and that added confidence is reflected in the appraisal.

If you are considering trading your vehicle, learning more about how the process works through the trade-in evaluation page is a good way to set expectations.

Preparing Your Records

• Gather receipts from oil changes and maintenance visits.
• Print digital service histories when possible.
• Keep any warranty or repair paperwork.
• Bring title or payoff information if applicable.

Preparation saves time and helps ensure that your vehicle is evaluated as accurately as possible.

Thinking Ahead

Even if you are not planning to trade right away, keeping organized maintenance records benefits your vehicle long-term. It improves reliability today and protects value for the future.

If you have questions about what documents to bring or how the appraisal process works, you can always reach out for assistance before your visit.

How to Decode Vehicle Safety Ratings and Why They Matter

When you’re shopping for a used vehicle, safety is usually near the top of the checklist — but figuring out what all the ratings actually mean can feel overwhelming. Star scores, test categories, and long feature lists sound technical, yet they’re all trying to answer one simple question: How well does this vehicle help protect you and your passengers? Once you understand how safety ratings work, they become one of the easiest tools to use when you’re comparing vehicles online or walking the lot.

Where Safety Ratings Come From

Safety ratings have been around since the late 1970s, when standardized crash testing started to give shoppers an easier way to compare vehicles. Over time, testing grew more detailed as cars became more advanced. Today, vehicles are evaluated for front and side crash protection, rollover resistance, structural strength, airbag and seat belt performance, and the effectiveness of modern safety technology. As vehicle design improves, testing standards continue to evolve. Newer vehicles are typically tested under tougher guidelines than older models, reflecting how safety expectations have climbed rather than suggesting older vehicles were unsafe. These ratings exist to give shoppers clear, unbiased insight when browsing dealership inventory like what you might find on our available vehicle listings.

What the Ratings Actually Mean

Most ratings use shopper-friendly scoring systems instead of complex engineering data. You’ll usually see star ratings that summarize overall safety performance along with category scores for things like frontal impact, side impact, and rollover protection. Some vehicles also earn recognition for strong results across multiple tests. Instead of focusing only on the overall score, it helps to look at individual categories too. Vehicles with similar overall ratings can perform differently in specific situations, which is why discussing details with a dealership specialist can be helpful when narrowing your choices.

Why Safety Ratings Matter for Used Vehicles

Once a vehicle is tested, its safety rating stays tied to that model year — even after it becomes pre-owned. That’s good news for used-car shoppers. Comparing ratings makes it easier to see which models were designed with stronger protection and which years introduced meaningful safety upgrades. When looking through multiple years of the same model in a dealership lineup, safety ratings can help you decide whether moving up to a newer year with added safety features is worth the investment.

Passive vs Active Safety Features

Passive safety features protect you during an accident. These include airbags, seat belts, reinforced frames, side-impact beams, and crumple zones engineered to absorb crash forces. These systems remain effective throughout a vehicle’s life and continue to provide protection even on older used vehicles.

Active safety features are designed to help prevent accidents before they occur. Common examples include automatic emergency braking, lane departure warnings or assistance, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alerts, and adaptive cruise control. Many of these features became available in more recent model years, so newer used vehicles may offer technology that wasn’t common just a decade ago. Asking which safety systems are equipped on a specific vehicle is always a smart part of the shopping process.

How to Use Safety Ratings While Shopping

Safety ratings are most useful when applied thoughtfully during your search. Compare vehicles within similar size categories, review category-specific test results rather than only the overall score, and pay attention to which safety features are included by year and trim level. If you’re considering trading your current vehicle toward something newer or better equipped, checking both safety ratings and market value through our trade-in tool can help clarify your next step.

Your dealership’s staff can also walk you through safety details, vehicle history questions, and financing options available through our secure credit application. If you ever want additional product information or guidance while researching safety features and ratings, our team is just a message away via the contact page. You can also learn more about our approach to helping shoppers make informed decisions by visiting our About Us page or connect directly through our vehicle locator service.

Safety ratings provide a trusted foundation for smarter car buying. When combined with careful research, and the guidance of a knowledgeable dealership team, they help ensure you choose a vehicle that fits your budget, your driving needs, and the peace of mind you want every time you hit the road.

MR. COOL COMPLETE AUTO REPAIR

Address: 8062 Kingston Pike, Knoxville, TN 37919 (<click for directions) | Phone: (865) 470-0890 (call to schedule)

Mr. Cool Auto Center is your trusted service department for complete Auto Services, Transmission Repair & Brake Services located at 8062 Kingston Pike, Knoxville, TN 37919 (<click for directions) . For years our local customers have trusted us with their vehicle’s maintenance and repair. We have grown from a small A/C auto repair shop into a full-fledged Auto Center offering a wide range of expertise in Auto Services, Transmission Repair & Brake Services.  Below you will find a detailed description of every service we offer as well our approach in how we diagnose and remedy any issues impacting the optimal performance of your vehicle.

Auto Services in Knoxville, TN

If you are looking for a dependable and trustworthy resource with a full range of auto services in Knoxville, TN, Mr. Cool’s offers repairs and maintenance of cars, SUV’s and light trucks, we specialize in all makes and models, both foreign and domestic. Our ASE / certified staff of automotive professionals will perform diagnostic tests to understand why your car isn't working as efficiently as it should & fix what needs to be repaired. When it comes to maintenance and auto service, we are the best solution in Knoxville, TN.

Diagnostic Testing & Evaluation:

• Check Engine Light

• Engine Performance System

• Air Conditioning

• Cooling System

• Brakes

• ABS System

• Electrical Systems

• Exhaust Gas Analysis

• Computer Suspension Diagnostics

• Pre-Purchase Inspections

Repair of the Following:

• Fuel Injectors

• Computer Systems

• Electrical Systems

• Cooling Systems

• Exhaust Systems

• Air Conditioning

• Drive Belts, Pulleys, and Tensioners

• Timing Belts

• Brakes

• Front and Four-Wheel Alignment

• European Wheel Alignments

• Steering Rack and Pinion

• CV Boot

• Drive Axle

• Rear Axles and Suspension

• Shocks and Struts

• Clutch

• Transmission Repair or Replacement

• On Vehicle Rotor Turning

• Engine Repair or Replacement

TO SCHEDULE SERVICE CALL 865-470-0890 OR CLICK IMAGE BELOW TO CONTACT US &

Maintenance Programs:

• Manufacturer's Recommended Maintenance

• Transmission Services

• Power Steering Fluid Flush

• Brake Fluid Flush

• Cooling System Flush

• Fuel Injection Cleaning

• Spark Plugs

• Ignition Systems

Battery, Charging, and Starting Systems

Often times a dead battery is an indication of another problem. Using “state-of-the-art” electronic equipment we diagnose the most common electrical problems in today’s vehicles. This check ensures that all electrical systems are operating properly, thereby achieving maximum life and dependability.

• A full analysis of your battery’s condition, including its state of charge and ability to hold a charge.

• An inspection and analysis of the vehicle’s starting and charging system, including the starter, the alternator and the voltage regulator to ensure proper charging to maximize the life of the battery.

• An inspection and adjustment of the alternator belt if necessary. A loose alternator belt can cause your battery to discharge prematurely.

• A cleaning of the battery’s connection and cable ends, as well as an application of corrosion protection.

• Professional battery installation including cleaning the battery tray and cable ends to ensure good, clean connections.

Computerized Engine Diagnostic Service

Computerized Engine Diagnostic Service in Knoxville TN Includes:

• Complete engine diagnostic test

• Pulling of computer codes to identify potential problem areas

• Road test vehicle

• Fuel pressure test

• Visual inspection of emissions system and other under hood systems.

TO SCHEDULE SERVICE CALL 865-470-0890 OR CLICK IMAGE BELOW TO CONTACT US &

Cooling System Maintenance

Coolant protects your engine from freezing or overheating, but its effectiveness can diminish over time.

A cooling system failure is the number one reason for automotive breakdown on our nation’s highways. Unlike a flat tire, you can’t stop and put on a spare. Trust Mr. Cool to get your vehicle operating at the right temperature. Mr. Cool’s ASE-certified technicians will efficiently have you back on the road with a properly maintained cooling system!

Recommended interval: Every 6,000 miles or every 6 months

Cooling System Warning Signs:

• Your vehicle overheats.

• Your coolant light comes on.

• Your temperature gauge reads higher or lower than normal.

• Your heater does not work.

• Your engine runs poorly or uses excess fuel.

• You smell antifreeze (sweet moist smell).

Our Cooling System Maintenance Service Includes:

• Pressure check the cooling system and radiator cap for external leaks with filler cap and neck adapter and tester

• Check crankcase oil and automatic transmission fluid for water content and levels

• Test coolant thermostat with radiator thermometer

• Check temperature gauge for accuracy

• Chemical flush compound

• Drain system

• Clean foreign matter from radiator fins (if needed)

• Check fan blades and pulleys for alignment and damage

• External inspection of all hoses for cracks, swelling, brittleness and deterioration

• Check engine core plugs, (where possible)

• Refill system with correct coolant type, check and bleed for air locks

• Check condition and tension of drive belts

• Includes up to 2 gallons of coolant or proper type for vehicle and 1 chemical flush compound

Computerized Wheel Alignment in Knoxville, TN

An easy way to substantially improve your vehicle’s handling, and extend the life of your tires, is to be aware of signs of misalignment and to have your wheels aligned immediately if signs appear. Wheels become out of alignment due to many factors such as dramatic stops and starts, hitting curbs hard, accidents, heavy loads, potholes, and normal wear and tear as the vehicle gets older.

Mr. Cool’s Complete Auto Care technicians will align your vehicle so that your tires wear properly and the vehicle travels straight while driving. By properly correcting Caster, Camber, Toe and Thrust Angle, it will increase tire life, reduce wear and tear on steering components and improve the handling characteristics of your vehicle.

Alignment Problem Warning Signs:

• Your steering wheel is not straight when driving on a level road.

• You hear strange noises in your suspension system.

• The vehicle wanders from side to side.

• Your vehicle pulls or drifts to one side when you drive in a straight line or brake.

• You hear squeals when you turn.

• You feel vibrations in the steering wheel or through your vehicle’s seat.

• The vehicle’s steering feels loose, mushy, or too tight.

• Your tires are wearing prematurely or unevenly.

TO SCHEDULE SERVICE CALL 865-470-0890 OR CLICK IMAGE BELOW TO CONTACT US &

Engine Tune-Ups

When your car is properly tuned, the ignition system, fuel system, emission system, and the computer system are all working together. This results in peak efficiency and optimum performance. A drive-ability problem is not always solved by a standard tune-up. The problem may be unrelated to a tune-up and may require a comprehensive diagnostic service. Trust Mr. Cool for expert maintenance tune-ups and engine diagnostic services.

• You lose power.

• Your gas mileage drops.

• Your engine “knocks” when it accelerates.

• Your engine stalls.

• Your engine starts hard, even when the battery easily turns the engine over.

• Your engine continues to run after you turn the ignition off.

• There is a noxious (harmful) exhaust odor.

• Your engine runs rough at any or all speeds.

• Your engine backfires, spits or pops.

• Your engine dash warning lights stay on.

Mr. Cools Maintenance Engine Tune-Up service includes

• Installing new spark plugs

• Set timing (if applicable)

• Adjust carburetor (if applicable)

• Inspect secondary wires

• Distributor cap

• Rotor

• PCV valve

• Coil

• Crankcase vent filter

TO SCHEDULE SERVICE CALL 865-470-0890 OR CLICK IMAGE BELOW TO CONTACT US &

Fuel Injection Service

Not Sure How to Fix Fuel System Warning Signs? When your car idles rough, hesitates, stalls, or it does not seem to have the power or fuel economy it once had, a Fuel Injection Service may be the answer. Often these symptoms are mistaken as signs that a tune up is needed.

As you drive your car, carbon deposits build up on fuel injectors, engine valves and in the combustion chambers. Deposits also form on the throttle body, and in the intake manifold as well as in the catalytic converter. This accumulation of carbon and sludge can cause a drastic drop in both fuel economy and performance. Fuel additives are largely ineffective because they target only the fuel injectors and are not concentrated enough to clean away stubborn carbon build up. They do nothing to address the other areas that are arguably more important than the fuel injectors.

The only proven way to clean the entire fuel and intake systems, as well as the combustion chambers, engine valves, and catalytic converter is by performing a comprehensive Fuel Injection Service. For this service to be effective, it must be performed by a qualified technician using the proper equipment and solvent solution.

It is recommended that this service be performed every 12 months or 15,000 miles as part of your routine maintenance schedule to keep your car running clean and efficiently, and performing like it did when it was new.

Fuel System Warning Signs

• Your vehicle is hesitating.

• Your vehicle is having trouble starting.

• Your vehicle is achieving poor gas mileage.

• Your vehicle is operating sluggish with poor performance.

TO SCHEDULE SERVICE CALL 865-470-0890 OR CLICK IMAGE BELOW TO CONTACT US &

Steering, Suspension, and Drive Train

Have you noticed uneven tire wear? Or while driving, have you noticed an off-center steering wheel? Swaying, drifting or pulling? Difficult steering? Any of these symptoms may indicate the need for service or repairs to your vehicle’s steering and suspension system. At Mr. Cool’s Complete Automotive Care, we have certified technicians who will perform a professional inspection of the system, providing you with a complete analysis of the current conditions and repair cost estimate. Mr. Cools is a full-service steering and suspension repair facility.

Worn steering, suspension and driveline components can cause noise, vibration, premature tire wear and misalignment. That’s why we perform a complete steering and suspension system inspection with every alignment. By replacing worn parts, you regain steering control and handling that will return your vehicle to its original operating performance.

Mr. Cool’s Complete Automotive Care provides full service in steering, suspension and driveline parts replacement. We carry brand name parts, such as Moog and Gabriel, with most carrying a Lifetime Warranty on parts and labor. Key parts we repair or replace may include; Ball joints, Bushings, Sway bar links, Center links, Idler arms/Pitman arms, Rack and pinion units, Tie rod ends/sleeves, CV joints/boots, CV axle half shafts, Shock absorbers, struts/cartridges.

TO SCHEDULE SERVICE CALL 865-470-0890 OR CLICK IMAGE BELOW TO CONTACT US &

Transmission Repair Specialists in Knoxville, TN

At Mr. Cool’s in Knoxville TN, we understand the fear of hearing those two dreaded words: “replace transmission.” When you bring your car to us, you’ll never need to worry that we’ll hit you with unnecessary repairs or services. Our ASE-certified auto mechanics will professionally and honestly diagnose your car and set up a schedule for any necessary transmission repairs or other work. For your convenience, our computerized car maintenance system tracks all car repair work and factory scheduled maintenance. You can trust the expert crew at Mr. Cool’s. Contact us at 865-470-0890 to schedule your appointment for a transmission repair, another auto repair, or to even set up a used-car purchase inspection.

Transmission Repair is a Technical Business

A transmission repair is a very technical process. At Mr. Cool’s, you can rest assured that we have the ability to properly diagnose your transmission problem. With our state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment, experience, and knowledge, we’ll get your car back on the road with a transmission repair or transmission replacement. Transmission problems generally fall into two categories: either your car won’t run or it won’t run smoothly. Usually, transmission repairs are necessary because of a problem with one or more of the following systems:

• Bell Housing – This cone-shaped metal case is located on the side of the engine under the hood for front-wheel drive cars and underneath the car behind the engine for rear-wheel drive cars.

• Gears – A problem could be located within either the main gears or the planetary gears.

• Fluid – Automatic transmissions must have clean, quality fluid to run properly. Like your oil, the fluid level must be at the right level, or your car could sustain damage. A transmission flush may be in order if the fluid is dirty.

• Filter – The filter catches any impurities that may be in the transmission fluid.

TO SCHEDULE SERVICE CALL 865-470-0890 OR CLICK IMAGE BELOW TO CONTACT US &

Brake Service Specialists in Knoxville, TN

When it comes to staying safe on the road, your brakes are one of the most critical components of your vehicle. At Mr.Cool’s Brake Repair Services in Knoxville, TN, we’ve earned a reputation as the go-to brake shop for fast, honest, and expert brake repair. Whether you’re hearing a squeal, feeling vibrations, or your vehicle is taking longer to stop, we’re here to help with comprehensive brake service solutions.

Benefits of Timely Brake Service

Ignoring brake issues can lead to expensive repairs or dangerous situations. Here’s why timely brake maintenance matters: (1) Improved safety: Reliable brakes can prevent accidents; (2) Lower repair costs: Fixing issues early prevents rotor or caliper damage; (3) Better performance: Smooth, quiet braking enhances driving comfort; (4) Increased vehicle lifespan: Protects other systems from wear. While it varies by driving habits, most brake pads need replacing every 25,000 to 70,000 miles. City driving, frequent braking, and heavy loads can shorten this interval. At Tony’s, we’ll inspect your pads and provide honest recommendations based on wear levels.

Brake Problems Warning Signs:

• Brake warning light comes on

• Your car pulls to one side when braking instead of stopping in a straight line

• When applied, your brakes grab, causing jerky stops

• Brakes grind with continuous loud metallic noise when applied

• Brake pedal is either mushy or very hard to depress

• Brakes must be pumped to work properly

• Wheel(s) are excessively hot after short drives

• Brake fluid leaks are seen around any wheel or in engine compartment, near master cylinder location

• Brake fluid very low or very dirty looking

• Mr. Cool’s Brake Service Includes:

• Recondition rotors or drums

• Install new pads or new/re-aligned shoes

• Check brake fluid and fill as needed

• Adjust rear brakes, if necessary

• Re-pack wheel bearings/replace seals on non-drive serviced axle

• Road test vehicles

• Additional parts and/or labor extra as required or suggested

TO SCHEDULE SERVICE CALL 865-470-0890 OR CLICK IMAGE BELOW TO CONTACT US &