Tacoma Auto Repair

  The History of BMW 2002   The BMW 2002 first rolled off the line in 1968. This iconic car's base model came stock with a single carburetor that produced 101 horsepower; this matched the Datsun 510 at the time. The BMW 2002Ti, an upgraded version, sported twin Solex 40 carburetors with a higher compression engine that delivered 119 hp, which pushed this little powerhouse to a top speed of 115 mph putting in the class of the likes of the Austin-Healey 3000 MkIII, but this 2002Ti seats 4 with space in the boot (trunk). The 2002Ti weighed more, but with those twin Solex 40's it had the pulling power to deliver both speed and performance.   When 1969 rolled around, BMW offered an automatic 2002 with a 3-speed transmission with a single carburetor engine. This coupe was not designed for sport but as a stylish easy-driving car. By 1971, BMW offered yet another version; the cabriolet had a 1.6-liter engine that was later upgraded to a 2-liter engine making it a ... read more

  At Bristows, we know the importance of being able to hop in your car and take a drive to clear your mind. Don't let recent events like the election, talk of the second wave of COVID-19, or the current season change have you feeling stressed, a little blue, or trapped. Take a nice drive to keep having fun this fall! The Pacific Northwest is a favorite of many, and as a Washington resident, you already know why. The beauty of Washington abounds in every corner of this beautiful state. There are so many gems that are just a road trip away. Need some fun fall road trip ideas? Look no further.    Port Angeles Just a hop, skip, and a jump away is amazing Port Angeles. Getting there is easy from Tacoma; it's only about two hours away. Port Angeles is about a 100-mile drive, and you'll get to cross the Tacoma Narrows Bridge! Here is a fun fact for you, the original bridge was named Galloping Gertie. It was rebuilt in 1950 and later renamed by locals Sturdy Gert ... read more

Have you ever found yourself stuck on the side of the road? If not, you are lucky or very good at preventive maintenance. We all plan to have a safe drive; however, just in case things don't go as planned, it is good to have an emergency kit packed in your car for that just-in-case. What should you keep in your vehicle emergency kit? Great question! At Bristow's, we have put together a list of items to consider packing before you take off on your Great Escape.   First Aid Kit Purchasing a first aid kit that is pre-packed is a no brainer. It comes with gauze, bandages, antibiotic ointment, tape, scissors, gloves, aspirin, tweezers, hydrocortisone, and a thermometer all packed into an efficient little bag. You can pick them up for about $25, and it is sure to come in handy. If you can find room to add a few things into the bag, we suggest you tuck in a flashlight, extra batteries, and a spare phone charger. Adding a handwritten note with your insurance information, prefer ... read more

The world had no idea what was in store when Gottlieb Daimler (1834 - 1900) & Carl Benz (1844 - 1929) were born into the world. This powerful duo pushed our world into a new era with their quest for automobile innovation and technology, leading us into a new wave of the future.   In the late 1800s, Carl Benz produced the world's first 2-stroke engine powered bicycle. Soon after, Benz & Daimler teamed up to form a company focusing on research and development of a 4-stroke engine designed to power an automobile. Of course, this comes after a few business ventures with other shareholders that did not share their vision and only wanted to work on developing stationary engines. As we all know, this was not to be their destiny, and so they parted ways. Daimler & Benz stayed true to their dream separately and together, focusing on building the world's first automobile, first by inventing the first internal combustion engine called The Grandfather Clock in 1884, foll ... read more

A tire blowout while driving can be a harrowing experience, especially while on a highway, interstate, or another high-speed road. Bristow's Auto Repair wants to make sure you are prepared and know how to handle an experience like this in the safest possible manner.   If you suddenly get a flat while you are on the road, it can be difficult to keep your vehicle going in a straight line. You will want to take hold of the steering wheel at the 10 and 2 positions, take your foot off the gas pedal and allow your car to reduce speed slowly. It is crucial to avoid slamming on your brakes; you want to let your vehicle slow down gradually so as not to further damage the wheel or create a traffic hazard.   Check your breathing; make sure you take long, deep breaths, full, slow inhale, and exhales to help stay calm and keep a clear mind. You have got this!   When you find yourself in a middle or left lane, you will want to carefully work your way toward an exit or a brea ... read more

When you are ready to get out of the city and find some incredible winding roads to explore, the Cascade Loop Scenic Highway is an ideal day or weekend adventure. Beginning in the Methow Valley in the town of Twisp and ending in the Skagit Valley, there is so much to see and do along the way; you can easily make a fabulous weekend out of this day trip.   To kick off this adventure you will want to head north on I-5 to Highway 2, where you may want to stock up on snacks and fill your tank in Monroe before heading out on this adventure. Along Highway 2, you will wander past small rustic towns such as Sultan, Gold Bar, and Index before coming to the historic town of Snohomish. Snohomish is known for its antiquing, so if you have the time, be sure to pull off and wander through the town.   There are many hiking trails along the Skykomish River to explore, and whitewater rafting or kayaking adventures to seize upon if you can make the time. There are bald eagle feeding grounds ... read more

BMW has a long history of perseverance that began in 1916. What started out as an airplane engine company, BMW morphed along the way to stay relevant. From airplanes to motorcycles to fine luxury automobiles as well as mergers and takeovers, BMW continues to set the standard for excellence. They even made pots and pans to stay afloat during some of the toughest years!  The first BMW logo was created in 1917 honoring the original Karl Rapp logo that represented a spinning airplane propeller. In more than 100 years, that logo has changed very little. People love that logo and that’s why you see it on coffee mugs, key chains, flags, hats, and more. That way, everyone can say they own a BMW!  BMW headquarters is located in Munich where its primary manufacturing plant is located. It produces more than 200,000 vehicles a year and employs more than 9,000 people.  One of the things that makes BMW unique is its ability to adjust with the times. Through wars and negative ... read more