Auto Guide 03.31.17

MARCH 31, 2017

THE PRESS

AUTO GUIDE

CARS 路 TRUCKS 路 BOATS 路 BIKES 路 RVS

Photo by Tony Kukulich

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MARCH 31, 2017

AUTO GUIDE

No monkey business at this auto shop AMY SCHRADER

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hen your car breaks down or is in need of repair, the first

thing your mind races to is finding a mechanic you can trust.

Brentwood’s Monkey Wrenches Inc. is a complete auto-service center, known not only for its experienced and knowledgeable technicians and detailed repairs, but also for honesty and a high level of customer service.

“Our technicians go through an extensive hiring process, in order to assure our customers the technician repairing their vehicle is one of the best, most highly trained and morally ethical professionals available in the industry,” said Ted Curran, owner of Monkey Wrenches Inc. “I am very proud of my staff. They all truly represent what Monkey Wrenches Inc. is about and what ON THE COVER: Ted Curran, owner of Brentwood’s Monkey Wrenches Inc., has a reputation for providing quality customer service and state-of-the-art automotive technology.

The experienced staff at Monkey Wrenches Inc., in Brentwood, is trained to provide complete auto service to all their customers.

Photo by Tony Kukulich

we represent in our community.”

The community is very important to Curran and his wife, Jane, who moved to Brentwood in 1989 to raise their five children.

In 2005, Curran, who had more than 20 years of experience in the automotive repair business, purchased Monkey

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Wrenches, which was failing at the time.

Turning the business into a successful operation while serving his community has been rewarding.

“I am proud and honored to be able to work and serve this great community,” said Curran. “I would not be able to build, manage and run the business with-

out the constant support from my family and from the relationship and direction from our good Lord God.” He shows his customers how much he appreciates them by offering warranties on all repairs. see Auto page 13B

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A&A Auto Parts & Sales – Cadillac experts We are the go-to spot for anything Cadillac worldwide and work on cars from all over the greater Bay Area.

AMY SCHRADER

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ore than 50 years ago, Elmer and Germaine Tompkins bought

Brentwood’s A&A Auto Parts, starting a family tradition in the auto

– Gar Tompkins, co-owner A&A Auto Parts & Sales

industry that would eventually earn their family recognition for their auto expertise from around the world.

While Elmer worked on cars, his young son, Gar, began idolizing Cadillacs, telling friends who wanted to become the president of the U.S. that he would rather be the president of General Motors. Gar completed his first custom paint job on his dad’s Cadillac when he was 3 years old, using paint he found in their garage.

Today, A&A Auto Parts & Sales is owned and operated by Elmer and Germaine’s children, Val and Gar Tompkins.

“Business has changed drastically over the years,” said Gar. “We have always been recyclers, with part sales as a secondary business. Today, we not only recycle parts, but we have also gone from

Photo by Tony Kukulich

Gar Tompkins, owner of A&A Auto Parts & Sales, is the second generation of the family business, which has been in Brentwood for more than 50 years. handling all cars to specializing in only Cadillacs.”

According to Gar, they ship Cadillacs and Cadillac parts all over the world, including to New Zealand and Nigeria, from their 5-acre property, which is filled with 500 cars and assorted parts.

“We are the go-to spot for anything

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Cadillac worldwide, and we work on cars from all over the greater Bay Area,” said Gar. “We realized that by specializing in Cadillacs, we would know our product better and be able to help our customers.”

Their customers include celebrities like Travis Barker of Blink 182, Bob Brown

of the Oakland Raiders and Eric Clapton, who purchased the company’s 1959 Cadillac Coupe DeVille, nicknamed the ‘Cadster,’ which won the World’s Most Beautiful Custom Award at the Golden Anniversary Sacramento Autorama in 2000.

From its humble beginnings as a two-day, hot-rod show in November 1950, the Sacramento Autorama has stood as the premier showcase of the radical custom and exotic show car. Each year, thousands of spectators make the annual trek to the city to view the latest in chopped, channeled, sectioned and chromed cars, as well as hot rods, pickups, motorcycles, muscle cars and street machines. see A&A page 14B

MARCH 31, 2017

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Corvette club cruisin’ the American dream There is a special, nostalgic feeling about Corvettes. It takes us back to drive-ins and Route 66.

AMY SCHRADER

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hen a caravan of more than 25 Corvettes passes through small

towns up and down the California coast, it tends to turn heads – something that happens often when the

– Danica Harris, Discovery Bay Corvette Club

Discovery Bay Corvette Club hits the open road.

“There is a special, nostalgic feeling about Corvettes,” said Discovery Bay resident Danica Harris, Discovery Bay Corvette Club publicist. “Corvettes are an American icon and part of the American culture. They take us back to drive-ins and Route 66 and forward to the seventh generation of the most modern sports car in America.”

The Discovery Bay Corvette Club, established in 1989, captures the excitement and magic behind the iconic sports car by encouraging ownership of Corvettes, exchanging ideas and information about the classic car and gathering members together for fun social events that showcase their vehicles. The 110-member club travels to car shows,

Photo courtesy of Discovery Bay Corvette Club

The Discovery Bay Corvette Club plans many events for members, including fun runs, where caravans of Corvettes line the highway and travel together to visit restaurants, wineries and other locations. wineries and restaurants, rallies and other club-sponsored events, which bring members together in camaraderie of Corvette ownership and friendship.

The club also donates to many local

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charities, including senior centers, veterans, women’s support groups, the homeless, cancer-support centers and food banks, but at the heart of the club is a mutual love and admiration for Corvettes.

Richard Allen, Discovery Bay Corvette Club’s former president and a current advisor board member, saw his first Corvette in 1962, when he was in high school. It was a moment he will never forget. He first rode in a Corvette in 1966, when his older brother purchased a 1965 British Racing Green, fuel-injected Corvette.

“We took it to Santa Cruz, and I was hooked,” said Allen. “On that day, I made myself a promise and a goal to own a Corvette.”

On Allen’s 50th birthday, he fulfilled that promise, purchassee Corvette page 14B

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Getting ready for a recreational road trip AMY SCHRADER

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It was great getting out in the wilderness, visiting the mountains, ocean and redwoods.

here is nothing that brings families together more than hitting the road in a recre-

ational vehicle (RV).

From the freedom it brings to the outdoor adventures shared, owning an RV can fill your family with a lifetime of treasured memories. Hardcastle’s RV Center in Oakley is East Contra Costa County’s source for all of your RV needs, including parts, service, accessories, RV storage and RV and camper-shell sales.

The experts there have been servicing the Bay Area and Northern California since 1972. Owner Doug Hardcastle’s passion for RVs began with a childhood filled with outdoor adventures and road trips in his family’s 14-foot Aloha Trailer.

“My parents would usually sleep in the trailer, and we’d sleep in tents or sometimes just in sleeping bags under the stars,” said Hardcastle. “It was always fun and brought us together. It was great getting out in the wilderness, visiting the mountains, ocean and redwoods.”

In addition to owning the RV center, Hardcastle has a history of community service. He spent 12 years on the

– Doug Hardcastle, owner Hardcastle RV Center

Photo courtesy of Doug Hardcastle

Hardcastle’s RV Center in Oakley is East Contra Costa County’s source for all of your RV needs, including parts, service, accessories, storage and RV and camper-shell sales.

Ironhouse Sanitation Board before being elected to serve on the Oakley City Council. In 2014, he was sworn in as the mayor of Oakley, and continues to serve

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“I like helping people,” said

Hardcastle.

According to Hardcastle, aside from bringing families together, another perk of owning an RV is that you always have an emergency shelter, with a refrigerator, bathroom and shower, should you need it.

“It gives you peace of mind to know that if you’re ever in an emergency situation, you have another home,” said Hardcastle.

While Hardcastle’s RV Center sells both economy and high-end RVs, it also sells tent trailers, or pop-ups, which are an inexpensive and great alternative for see Road Trip page 9B

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East Bay Autohaus 2016 is Your Local OA KLEY Factory Authorized Bosch Service Center 2013 2012 specializing in Mercedes-Benz & BMW Service.

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We are your Import & European Service & Repair Specialist, offering you an alternative to the dealership. Factory diagnostic equipment for Mercedes-Benz & BMW service.

We insist on original equipment parts. Our services are backed by a Three Year 36,000 Mile Warranty.

East Bay Autohaus takes pride in being the best in the industry and are committed to providing the very highest level client service in combination with our extensive Mercedes-Benz & BMW background.

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Upon receiving this honor, these individuals are recognized by being invited to participate in an all-expense paid, once-in-a-lifetime trip to Germany through which they experience the heritage and passion behind the brand. Participants visit various Mercedes-Benz facilities in Stuttgart, the birthplace of the brand, and are immersed in the local culture, history and traditions.

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AUTO GUIDE

Finding a bargain on your next used car AMY SCHRADER

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f you’re thinking about buying a used car, you might want to consider bidding at the

auction block.

Contra Costa County Public Auto Auction (CCCPAA) in Pittsburg has been helping buyers find great deals on used cars for 19 years. Organizers conduct auto auctions the first Saturday of the month and allow buyers to preview and test-drive vehicles on ‘Preview Fridays,’ before the bidding process begins.

“The auctions are a great opportunity for buyers looking for a vehicle that is not super expensive and want to have a no-stress and fun buying environment,” said Debbie Marzocco, president of CCCPAA. “It provides them a way to shop without sales people harassing them.”

According to Marzocco, buyers can expect at least a 15 percent or more savings on their vehicle, depending on the year, make and model.

“We pass as many savings on to the customer as we can,” said Marzocco. “We do our best to keep our costs down and have not ever raised

The Contra Costa County Public Auto Auction in Pittsburg helps buyers find great deals on used cars and conducts auto auctions on the first Saturday of the month.

Photo courtesy of Debbie Marzocco

our auction fee since day one. That is something that I am very proud of.”

CCCPAA obtains its vehicles from wholesalers, banks and car-rental and -leasing companies, with which it has accounts. Every week, it gets 15 to 20 new vehicles added to its inven-

tory in a variety of makes, models and price ranges. From Hondas, Chevrolets, Kias and Fords to Jaguars, BMWs and Mercedes, there is something for every customer. Besides cars, CCCPAA also carries an inventory of trucks, sport-utility vehicles, minivans, travel

trailers and RVs. Before you attend an auction, Marzocco recommends doing your homework. Buyers should preview inventory on CCCPAA’s website and see Bargain page 13B

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AUTO GUIDE

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Always follow child-safety seat regulations

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rotecting young children in automobiles should be of the utmost importance for

parents when on the road.

Studies have shown that children who are seated in age- and size-appropriate vehicle-restraint systems may be at a significantly lower risk of sustaining serious or fatal injuries during vehicle crashes, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Traffic crashes

account for the leading cause of death among children in the U.S. Because of their diminutive statures, kids who suffer injuries in vehicle accidents may fair far worse than adults who suffer similar injuries.

While many parents understand the need for proper child-safety seats, keeping up-to-date on regulations can be challenging. However, infant seats, convertible seats and booster seats can mean the difference between minor injuries and fatality in the event of an accident.

According to The Insurance Institute

for Highway Safety’s Highway Loss Data Institute, all 50 states and the District of Columbia have child-safety seat laws.

Child-safety seat laws require children to travel in approved child restraints or booster seats, and some permit or require older children to use adult seat belts.

For up-to-date regulations regarding specific states or U.S. territories, drivers can consult with their state or territory’s Highway Safety Offices. These offices will provide detailed explanations of height and weight limits and when children can be moved between seats.

In California, children under the age of eight must be secured in a car seat or booster seat in the back seat. Children under two, must be rear-facing in the vehicle. The only exceptions are rarely seen — children who are under two years old and weigh more than 40 pounds or are taller than 40 inches. Children who are eight years of age OR have reached 4’9” in height must be secured by a safety belt.

Passengers who are 16 years of age and over are subject to California’s Mandatory Seat Belt law.

– Courtesy Metro Creative

Road Trip from page 6B

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families looking for outdoor adventures.

They are lightweight, so cars with a hitch can pull them.

“Trailer tents are so convenient,” said Hardcastle. “You just get to your campground, crank it up, set up, break out some firewood and start roasting marshmallows.”

For those looking to purchase an RV, Hardcastle recommends that you make sure the person or dealership selling the RV takes the necessary time to show you how to operate the RV, including making sure all of its features work, before you make the purchase.

Whether you own an RV, or a trailer tent, you can expect more than just outdoor adventures when you hit the road.

“Once you get settled into a campground, you can expect a feeling of community,” said Hardcastle. “Families have potluck dinners with other families in the campground, and they help each other out if anyone is having any issues with their RV.” While camping, kids explore the outdoors, parents relax and technology is lost in the mix of sand, salt, mountains, towering trees and fresh air.

Antioch residents Stephanie and Clayton Peddy recently purchased a 32-foot travel trailer, with all of the bells, whistles and luxuries of home, including a private bunkhouse for their three children.

“We bought the trailer, because I’m not a fan of camping,” said Stephanie Peddy. “My husband enjoys regular camping, but knows this is the only way we’ll get out, and we absolutely loved our first trailer trip.”

Making memories with your family when you hit the road for an adventure is what owning an RV is all about.

“I always say everything begins and ends with family,” said Hardcastle.

Hardcastle’s RV Center is located at 1189 Main St., in Oakley. For more information, visit www.hardcastlesrv.com or call 925-754-4005.

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MARCH 31, 2017

Car rental advice helps save time, money

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any people resolve to enjoy life to the fullest, and that may involve

indulging in new experiences and traveling to different locales.

According to the U.S. Travel Association, nearly four out of five domestic trips taken are for leisure, and 1.7 billion person trips, or travel taken by a person away from home overnight to places 50 miles away or more, were logged in 2016.

Ground transportation remains one of the most popular means of getting around.

People who choose not to use their own vehicles for travel often find rental vehicles suit their purposes and can be quite convenient. Consumers seeking a rental car can ensure their travel plans go smoothly with these tips. ♦♦ Travel off-season Not only might travelers save on airline tickets, hotel accommodations and more when traveling off-season, but they also can save on rental cars.

According to the Abrams Travel Data Index, consumers can expect to pay 56 percent less in March for a rental car than they would renting the same vehicle in July. ♦♦ Know what you want Before renting, decide which type of

vehicle will best fit your needs.

If you’re traveling with children, you may need a van or a large sedan, rather than a compact car. If travel includes certain hobbies, such as skiing or bicycle riding, look for a rental with a ski or bike rack – or one that can fit such accessories. Those concerned with the environment may want to rent an eco-friendly model. ♦♦ Shop around Major car-rental agencies are located all over the world. However, depending on where you travel, locally owned companies

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might offer comparable services and lower rates. Lower operating costs (think no franchise fees or big advertising budgets) mean these rentals typically cost 15 to 30 percent less than rentals from mainstream agencies.

Research lesser-known rental companies beforehand to compare prices and read any reviews to see if these businesses are up to the standards of larger, better-known chains. ♦♦ Avoid renting from an airport It may be convenient to step off a plane and grab a rental right there. However, rental-car agencies operating at airports may

pass on airport surcharges to their customers.

Try a car-rental service away from the airport and take a shuttle or cab to get there. ♦♦ Understand mileage caps According to Angie’s List, some rentalcar companies offer unlimited miles for a rental period, while others may employ mileage caps. Read the fine print of the agreement, especially if you’ll be using the rental for long-distance driving. ♦♦ Ask about membership affiliation Inquire about discounts for any major national organizations, frequent-flier programs and credit-card programs to which you may belong. If you’re employed by a company that frequently rents cars, they may have a negotiated rate for employees. ♦♦ Investigate insurance coverage You may be able to decline extra insurance coverage at the rental desk. Some personal automotive policies will cover collision damage and personal liability for temporary use of a rental car, according to MileCards.com, a travel rewards card comparison website. What is not covered by your insurance may be covered by secondary insurance offered by the credit card used at booking.

Rental cars are a major component of travel. Consumers can save money and make trips even easier by understanding some of the basics of renting.

– Courtesy Metro Creative

AUTO GUIDE

Top tips for buying a new car

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new car can be one of the largest purchases a person will make in their lifetime,

so choosing an automobile requires careful research and some comparison shopping.

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Get financing ahead of time Knowing your budget ahead of time and prearranging financing can put shoppers in a better position when it comes time to negotiate. Strong credit scores and decent down payments make certain buyers better prospects for dealerships. It also may mean their purchasing power can translate into better deals.

Shopping for a new car can be challenging and exciting all at once. Purchasing at the right time can save drivers money and get them in the car of their dreams.

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According to IHS Automotive, there are more than 250 million registered passenger vehicles in the U.S. With so many cars and trucks on the road, it’s important for drivers to get a vehicle that meets their needs and fits their budgets.

The following are some pointers for prospective buyers looking to save some money on their next vehicles.

Wait for model changeover Pay attention to news regarding which vehicle models will be retired or redesigned, as this may indicate which vehicles might be offered at the best deals. The model year should also be considered when looking for a new car.

Many buyers are naturally attracted to the newest model year, feeling that if they’re going to pay a lot for a car or truck, they want to do so for the newest available model. Those who don’t need the newest model available may find a better deal than those who do.

Choose a different body type The National Automobile Dealers Association advises that pickup trucks and SUVs continue to command high prices.

Shoppers who look at sedans, compact cars and luxury vehicles may be able to get a better price than those looking for trucks or SUVs. Buyers should assess their needs and see if a different body style or category of car fits their needs and budgets.

Shop the end of the month No matter the month, waiting until the last week of the month may be a good time to buy. Sales managers and dealerships in general have a monthly quota to meet and are compensated accordingly.

Negotiating at this time means shoppers can get a good deal, while salespeople can move vehicles.

Choose the right day of the week According to a study by TrueCar.com, an automotive pricing and information website, Sunday is the best day of the week to purchase a vehicle. Buyers can expect to pay as much as $2,000 more for the same vehicle on Friday than those who shop on a Sunday. Monday is also a good day, as there is less foot traffic and it may be possible to wrangle a better deal.

Waiting until the end of the day can be advantageous, too. Salespeople may be anxious to close out sales, so they can get home at quitting time.

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Tech to take along on your next road trip hearts. Writers and travel-

ers have romanticized the open road and the freedom it represents since automobiles became accessible to the masses. While many drivers still take to the road looking for adventure, road trips have changed considerably since Jack Kerouac penned his seminal novel, “On the Road,” in the 1950s.

The spirit of the open road is still there, but the way travelers approach road trips has changed considerably. This is most notable with regard to the technology motorists now take along for the ride. Drivers about to embark on a road trip, whether it’s their first venture or their 50th, can make trips even more enjoyable by taking along the right tech.

Navigation system

Many vehicles are now equipped with built-in navigation systems, but drivers whose vehicles are older or not equipped with such technology

should consider purchasing one before embarking on trips.

Though some may feel navigation systems go against the adventurous spirit of traveling, it’s easy to get lost on the open road, especially in an era when many people have grown accustomed to round-the-clock access to information, including maps, on their smartphones.

Even if you have no set itinerary in mind, a navigation system can ensure you spend more time enjoying the open road and less time trying to figure out just where you are at any given moment.

Chargers

Many people feel their devices are extensions of themselves, but such devices won’t be of much help if they are routinely running out of power.

Bring along several chargers that can

be plugged into your car, so you and your passengers can keep your smartphones and other devices running throughout the trip. Though the idea of going off the grid might seem enticing, leaving the world behind is less romantic when you need roadside assistance or are in search of a restroom or a place to pull over and grab a meal. If you want to disconnect from the world, you can always switch your phone to airplane mode, while keeping devices charged in case of emergency.

Apps

The right apps can make all the difference, especially for travelers whose road-trip itinerary is not set in stone.

The smartphone app GasBuddy can help drivers find the cheapest gas near them, while an app like AroundMe helps travelers find the nearest restaurants, pharmacies, banks, gas stations and hotels, among other things.

And don’t forget to download a music app like Pandora or Amazon Music (available to Amazon Prime subscribers), so you and your fellow road warriors can be entertained as you travel far and wide.

LED road flares

Traditional road flares tend to burn out rather quickly, with some lasting as little as 15 minutes, which can be a problem for travelers who experience car trouble and end up stranded far away from auto-repair shops.

Some flameless LED road flares can last for hours on end off a single charge, providing drivers with some peace of mind should they be stranded and forced to wait awhile before a tow truck or mechanic arrives.

The spirit that inspires travelers to take to the open road still exists, but nowadays, drivers can make their road trips even more fun by taking along the appropriate tech.

– Courtesy Metro Creative

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place in many people’s

The right apps can make all the difference, especially for travelers whose road-trip itinerary is not set in stone.

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oad trips hold a special

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Bargain from page 8B select several vehicles on which to bid.

They should also research the vehicle’s retail price at www.kelleybluebook.com.

“Know what you are buying and the range that you want to spend, with tax, license, smog and any government or financing fees,” said Marzocco.

CCCPAA offers financing and warranties, as well. Buyers who wish to finance an auction vehicle should get the preapproval process done the day before the live auction takes place. After selecting vehicles to bid on, Marzocco recommends buyers visit and test-drive the vehicles the day before the auction.

Buyers can also bring a mechanic to the

They are very knowledgeable and have great customer service. After one visit here, I knew I’d be bringing my vehicles back anytime they have an issue I can’t fix.

– Patrick Alan, Brentwood customer Monkey Wrenches’ customers appreciate these extra steps to provide quality service and repairs.

“They are very knowledgeable and have great customer service,” said Brentwood resident Patrick Alan. “After one visit here, I knew I’d be bringing my vehicles back anytime they have an

lot to inspect any of the vehicles at their own expense.

On the day of the auction, be prepared with proper identification, including a driver’s license and another form of identification, which is required for registration and vehicle purchasing.

Buyers must be 18 years or older and have picture identification.

Finally, bid only if you are certain you want to buy the vehicle. For buyers not wanting to wait for the next auction, CCCPAA also has a ‘buy it now’ lot open every day for vehicle sales, as well as staff to help buyers with the auction and purchasing process.

“We are fortunate to have a great

issue I can’t fix.”

Customer loyalty and making sure his clients have a safe vehicle on the road is something Curran takes very seriously.

“We provide our customers the assurance that their vehicle will provide them with the freedom they need in order to maintain their quality of life, by

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having a safe and reliable vehicle to drive to work, drop the kids off at school or maybe take that special vacation trip,” said Curran.

Monkey Wrenches Inc.’s auto-repair services includes oil changes; tune-ups; engine repair; engine replacement; computer diagnostics; air conditioning service and repair; electrical system diagnostics and repair; brake repair; suspension and steering repair; transmission and service repair; and more.

Monkey Wrenches Inc. is located at 8130 Brentwood Blvd., in Brentwood. For more information, call 925-304-1291 or visit www.monkeyauto.com.

To comment, visit www.thepress.net.

The auctions are a great opportunity for buyers looking for a vehicle that is not super expensive and want to have a no-stress and fun buying environment.

– Debbie Marzocco, CCCPAA president staff and wonderful customers, many who come back and buy from us again and again,” said Marzocco. “We are very grateful for that.”

One of their loyal customers is Antioch resident Chelsea Jones.

“My family has been buying from CCCPAA forever,” said Jones. “I bought

my very first car from them and got an amazing deal. We are very happy with how they do business.”

CCCPAA is located at 2691 E. Leland Road, in Pittsburg. For more information, including inventory, visit www.cccpaa.com or call 925-432-8900.

To comment, visit www.thepress.net.

MEDAL LD AWARD

2013 MEDA L LD AWARD

MEDA L LD AWARD

2011 2010 GO

“Having one of the best warranties offered locally on all our repairs shows our customers how much we appreciate the opportunity to take care of them and their vehicle needs, while showing how much we stand behind our product and business model,” said Curran.

Monkey Wrenches Inc. also offers free shuttle and pick-up service for its customers. According to Curran, many people utilize the service, including elderly customers who are physically unable to get their vehicle serviced.

“Having their vehicle picked up and delivered back is handy for them,” said Curran.

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A&A from page 4B “It was like winning the Super Bowl,” said Gar. Under the hood of each of their cars, you’ll find quality parts, as they are all original equipment manufactured. When a customer needs a part they don’t have, the Tompkins only buy from the State of California Auto Dismantlers Association (SCADA), members of Automotive Recyclers of America or the Automotive Recyclers Association.

“With the internet, parts are available everywhere today,” said Gar. “Our

Corvette from page 5B ing a 1962 original, black, Corvette convertible.

“It was just like the one I originally saw back in high school,” he said.

Each member of the Discovery Bay Corvette Club has their own special connection to Corvettes, as well as a camaraderie that ties them to other Corvette owners.

The camaraderie is expressed

MARCH 31, 2017

AUTO GUIDE

advice is to buy from a specialist who knows your vehicle.”

According to Gar, many internet brokers know nothing about cars and buy parts from the cheapest source they can find. A&A Auto Parts & Sales’ customers know they have quality parts at low prices.

“Gar’s knowledge is superb,” said Oakley resident Wayne Cooksey, who owns a Cadillac and has been a customer for eight years. “Some of the things in his mind, no one else would have known.”

According to Cooksey, when he has

needed a part, A&A Auto Parts & Sales has always had it and provided reliable and excellent service.

The Cadillac specialists don’t just work on Caddies, they own several, including a 1957 Cadillac Eldorado, 1988 Cadillac Allante, 2004 Cadillac XLR, 1941 Cadillac Coupe, 1957 Cadillac Eldorado Seville and a 1962 Cadillac Convertible.

They have also won the World’s Most Beautiful Custom Award twice.

Besides helping their customers with auto parts, A&A Auto Parts & Sales is an ACDelco professional service center

and full-service shop that can handle car or light truck repairs and maintenance services. From tune-ups, oil changes and complex computer diagnostics to suspension, transmission, brakes and more, their team of highly trained and certified technicians make sure your vehicle is reliable and safe.

A&A Auto Parts & Sales is located at 6240 Brentwood Blvd., in Brentwood.

For more information, call 925-634-1188 or visit www.1800caddysone.com/1852. html.

To comment, visit www.thepress.net.

through a Corvette tradition that dates back to 1969. According to the August and September 1969 issue of Corvette News, from the moment Corvette No. 00001 first met Corvette No. 00002 on the road, their drivers have saluted each other with waves. The tradition, called Save the Wave, which the Discovery Bay Corvette Club supports, has continued through time.

“Save the Wave is a time-honored

Corvette tradition ... I remember even back in the ‘60s, riding in my brother’s Corvette,” said Allen. “It was great to see Corvette owners wave to each other as they passed; I still do this today and hope it continues for many many years.”

While the club honors old traditions, they also welcome new ideas and new members.

“We’ve all travelled different roads

and had different experiences,” said Harris. “We are always welcoming new members and love to hear about their travels and ideas.”

The Discovery Bay Corvette Club meets on the first Thursday of the month, at 7:30 p.m., at the Discovery Bay Yacht Club, 5871 Marina Road, in Discovery Bay. For more information, visit www.discoverybaycorvetteclub.com.

To comment, visit www.thepress.net.

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Business Profile

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You can check the status of your licensed contractor at www.cslb.ca.gov or 800-321CSLB. Unlicensed contractors taking jobs that total less than $500 must state in their advertisements that they are not licensed by the Contractors State License Board.

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15B

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New View Landscaping and Maintenance has been serving all of Contra Costa County for 16 years.

Sergio Fierros has been in the landscaping business for 27 years, and he offers a friendly, flexible and customized approach for his clients. Specializing in stamped color concrete, retaining walls, sprinkler systems, landscaping and landscape design, new lawns, maintenance, clean up, tree services and fences, Fierros’ familyowned business always put their clients’ needs first.

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16B

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MARCH 31, 2017

AUTO GUIDE

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Closed end lease for 2017 Accord Sedan CVT LX (CR2F3HEW) available from March 1, 2017 through May 1, 2017, to well-qualified lessees approved by Honda Financial Services. Not all lessees will qualify. Lessee responsible for maintenance, excessive wear/tear and 15¢/mile over 12,000 miles/year for vehicles with MSRP less than $30,000, and 20¢/mile over 12,000 miles/year for vehicles with MSRP of $30,000 or more. See your Honda dealer for complete details.

Closed end lease for 2017 Civic Sedan CVT LX (FC2F5HEW) available from March 1, 2017 through May 1, 2017, to well-qualified lessees approved by Honda Financial Services. Not all lessees will qualify. Lessee responsible for maintenance, excessive wear/tear and 15¢/mile over 12,000 miles/year for vehicles with MSRP less than $30,000, and 20¢/mile over 12,000 miles/year for vehicles with MSRP of $30,000 or more. See your Honda dealer for complete details.

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