Ronald Norat serves as Master Technician at MasterClass Automotive; specializing in the European luxury and exotic vehicles.
COVID-19 Update

Ensuring Safety First (COVID-19 Update)

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Updated as of 11:00 a.m. March 18, 2020.

At MasterClass Automotive, we take the health and safety of our customers and staff seriously. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, we have taken a number of precautions to better minimize exposure and propagation of this dangerous virus.

  • We have removed all customer seating in our lobby area. We will no longer be allowing “customer-wait” repairs, inviting customers instead to drop-off and pick-up BY APPOINTMENT ONLY.
  • Antibacterial gels have also been placed throughout our lobby area, for our customers’ convenience.
  • Vehicle intakes and delivery prep will now involve the application of protective covers to the steering wheel and shifter knob (in addition to plastic seat covers and paper floor mats which have always been our standard), as well as the use of disinfectant spray — used for the safety of both our customers and our staff.
  • In our “back-of-the-house” operations, we have enacted social distancing protocols as well as the use of protective gloves and face masks.

While forced closures and other restrictions have been placed on various local industries, we hope to remain open while it continues to be safe to do so. We realize vehicle repair and maintenance remain an important factor for many in our community, especially in view of the inherent risks associated with public transportation and ride-sharing.

The vast economic impact this pandemic is having on Miami-Dade County has yet to be fully calculated, but as a family-owned and operated small business, we are doing everything in our power to minimize that impact to our team members and their respective families.

Should you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment, feel free to contact us by phone (305) 351-2012 or via email: info@masterclassauto.com

Stay safe and God bless!

Rolls-Royce Repair Miami

Rolls-Royce Phantom / Drophead Coupe – Electrical Problems

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Several Rolls-Royce Phantom and Drophead Coupe owners have complained about a problem with their audio system, Bluetooth connectivity and/or back-up camera. After further investigation, we identified that in most cases it was caused by water leaking into the rear of the cabin. We found that water can make its way through the door seals. This damages the fiber optic system that is housed underneath the rear seats.

Continue reading “Rolls-Royce Phantom / Drophead Coupe – Electrical Problems” →

Rolls-Royce Suspension

Rolls-Royce Phantom / Ghost – Air Suspension Problem

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The Rolls-Royce Phantom and Rolls-Royce Ghost are known for their beautiful styling, handcrafted luxury and ultra-smooth ride. Its Airmatic system consists of four air struts and a compressor. While these are very reliable vehicles, these air suspension parts often fail. You may find your vehicle leaning to the left or right, usually in the front.

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Bentley Continental Maintenance – 36 Month Unlimited Plan

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Bentley Continental owners out of factory warranty can now enjoy no hassle maintenance through Masterclass Automotive’s 3-Year (36 Months) Unlimited Maintenance plan.

Applies to 2004-2018 Bentley Continental GT, Bentley Continental GTC and Bentley Continental Flying Spur models. Includes three annual scheduled maintenance services: two regular maintenance and one full tune-up over the life of the program PLUS unlimited electronic diagnostics at any point during the program period.

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Engine Performance & Fuel System Treatment

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Simple 3-Step Solution

Over time, your vehicle’s interior engine components can get dirty and clogged. Residue in the fuel injectors, valves and pistons can can cause poor engine performance and be responsible for hard starting, rough idling and even decreased gas mileage. 

If your European vehicle has over 40,000 miles, MasterClass Automotive offers a very convenient, highly-effective and cost-efficient solution for the ongoing maintenance and performance of your engine’s combustion system.

With the combination of three high-quality, Liqui-Moly products (Made in Germany), this simple 3-step solution is designed to:

  • Protect Against Ethanol-laced Gasoline
  • Enhance your engine’s overall performance
  • Protect against viscosity and friction

Liqui Moly Engine TreatmentJECTRON
Low-quality fuel and fuel with increased ethanol percentage can be negatively affecting your vehicle’s performance; increasing engine contamination and corrosion. Jectron can help enhance your engine performance IMMEDIATELY while cleaning your engine’s fuel system.

VALVE CLEAN
Low-quality gasoline can also affect your engine’s combustion system; leaving damaging carbon residue. Valve Clean helps clean your engine’s pistons, values and overall combustion system. It’s a powerful dose in a small container.

MOS2
This is one of the very best products for engine anti-friction. MOS2’s high-molecular graphite liquid penetrates friction areas within your engine’s parts; enhancing engine performance and overall fuel economy.

While local dealer service centers are charging over $200 for the same treatment, MasterClass Automotive offers this product bundle at a fraction of the cost.

 

 

The Benefits of Tire Balancing

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Minimizing Vibration and Maximizing Tire Durability & Overall Drive Safety

Over time, through day-to-day tire treadwear, your wheels and tires will experience changes in the distribution of their weight. While normal, if gone unaddressed, it could cause uneven tire wear as well as vibration in the steering wheel, seat, and floorboard.

Tire balancing can ensure a smoother, more comfortable ride, reduce tire and treadwear and help preserve your vehicle’s suspension. Most tire manufacturers recommend tires be balanced every 3,000 – 6,000 miles.

MasterClass Automotive provides tire balancing services using the latest digital-enhanced equipment. Beyond traditional balancing, we use Road Force® technology that measures radial and lateral tire forces and helps solve ride and handling problems such as tire pull and wheel vibration that traditional balance and wheel alignment machines cannot fix.

Hunter Road ForceOur Road Force® equipment applies over 1,200 pounds of pressure to simulate the weight of the vehicle on the tire as it rolls down the road. Using multiple electronic sensors, it measures variations of tire stiffness, radial runout of the wheels, and improper bead seat of tire to rim. This allows our technicians to match the tire and wheel position with the utmost accuracy and precision, while eliminating the need for excessive wheel weights.

To schedule an appointment for Road Force® tire balancing for your vehicle, Contact Us today.

 

Pre-Purchase CSI (Car Super Inspection)

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When a CarFax is not enough, get a Pre-Purchase CSI.

A lot has changed in the car-buying process over the years. Through technology and improved record keeping, a VIN (vehicle identification number) can track important vehicle history information that can prove valuable to a potential buyer before the final handshake.

Carfax pioneered the “Vehicle History Report” process in 1986 – when it would send the reports to customers via fax. Since then, it has become a valuable tool for buyers to make a well-informed decision when looking to purchase a pre-owned vehicle either through a dealership or private sale.

However, a vehicle history report can only reveal so much…

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ON SALE: Original BMW & Mini Wheel Sets

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For a limited time we are offering a wide selection of Original factory wheels with premium RUN FLAT tires — balanced with valves by the factory. Premium Package, Sport Package & Performance Wheel Sets for almost any BMW and Mini model.

Our inventory includes BRAND NEW as well as lightly-used wheel and tire sets. These are dealer take-offs being offered at significant discount. This is your opportunity to upgrade to some great looking wheels with RUN FLAT tires — for the price of the tires alone!

We have too many sizes and models to list and inventory is running out fast. Visit us or call us today!

In-Residence 360° Maintenance Program

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MasterClass Automotive is now offering a vehicle maintenance program designed for South Florida’s seasonal residents

Ideal for seasonal South Florida residents looking for ongoing up-keep of their luxury vehicle, MasterClass Automotive’s signature maintenance program, “In-Residence 360°,” ensures you’ll never arrive back home with your vehicle in less than optimal condition.

50-Point Inspection
Our monthly, door-to-door service includes a 50+ point inspection of the vehicle’s mechanical components; checking for leaks; monitoring battery life – checking battery and alternator voltage; reviewing condition of belts and tires. Also includes electrical scan; checking for any fault codes or warning lights.

Wash & Detail
As part of our service visit, we provide an exterior detail service, including wax and polish; plus a cleaning and shampooing of the vehicle’s interior, including upholstery, carpet, side panels and armrests. Doorjambs are waxed. Interior is deodorized and sanitized to perfection.

Real-Time Reporting
During our maintenance call we record and document all inspection and service items and provide an electronic report for your reference. Our custom report includes electronic scan codes as well as time-stamped photo and video references for your record-keeping and overall peace-of-mind.

Monthly program starts at $250.
$175 for each additional vehicle. Custom packages also available.

Another Five Stars

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 The most honest, knowledgeable, sharp mechanic you will come across. Pleasant to deal with, always with integrity. I brought my 2007 BMW 327i in, and they went above and beyond with the service required. My car was full of realtor gadgets, signs, papers, and I received it with nothing out of place. Totally trustworthy, explain everything clearly…. can’t say enough great things about these guys!!

Now Carrying Interstate Batteries

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MasterClass Automotive is proud to be an authorized retailer of Interstate Batteries. As “America’s No. 1 replacement-brand battery,” Interstate Batteries are guaranteed “factory fresh” at the time of purchase and their receipt-free warranties are backed coast to coast.

We currently carry in-stock a wide selection of automotive and light truck batteries that are optimal for Audi, Bentley, BMW, Ferrari, Lamborghini, Land Rover, Mercedes-Benz, Mini and Porsche vehicles.

Interstate Batteries’ Performance Warranty is one of the best in the industry; providing up to 4-year FREE replacement with a pro-rated discount for up to 6-years. See the graphic below for more details:

Contact Us to find the Interstate Battery model that is right for your vehicle.

Ferrari F1 – Common Failures – F1 Hydraulic Pump

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A common failure we have found on the Ferrari F430, Ferrari 599 and Ferrari 360 is a malfunction with the hydraulic pump. As a result of this mechanical failure, car owners may find: vehicle won’t start; the vehicle starts but gears don’t shift; and/or car will drive but gears stop working after a certain period of time.

These can all be related to a fault in the F1 hydraulic pump. This pump delivers highly pressured hydraulic fluid to the gear actuators. It’s a constant working unit critical to the vehicle performance.

Actually, Ferrari recommends that this electric motor be replaced as a preventive measure in every car older than 5 years and/or after 10-15K miles.

Unfortunately, for vehicle owners, the F1 hydrolic pump retails for approximately $3,000 + labor.

At MasterClass Automotive, we have repaired numerous Ferrari vehicles experiencing this common failure. Luckily, we have been able to save their owners thousands of dollars in repair costs – as compared to dealer service. MasterClass Automotive offers competitive prices on all original parts and guarantee our labor for one year.

If you are tired of paying extravagant dealer rates and still not getting the personal service you demand, we invite you to CONTACT US.

Mercedes GL-Class – Common Failures: Rack and Pinion

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A common problem on the Mercedes GL350, Mercedes GL450 and Mercedes GL550 is the steering rack and pinion mounting bushing.

Mounting bushings secure the rack and pinion to the body of the vehicle. These rubber components can deteriorate over time due to oil, wear or age. When cracked or torn, drivers will usually hear a hard clunking noise when turning the vehicle.

At MasterClass Automotive, our Mercedes-Benz factory-trained master technicians can repair this problem using original MB parts. CONTACT US for a complimentary vehicle inspection today. We trust you will find our service and professionalism matches if not exceeds that of your local MB dealer service center (and our prices are much more competitive too).

Don’t Just Take Our Word For It…

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My wife and I own a Mercedes Benz 500SL and a ML500 and we only felt comfortable taking them to the the local Mercedes Benz dealer for service, even though we felt that they were overpriced and the service mediocre at best. About a year ago a relative told me about Masterclass Automotive. Even though I was hesitant at first I did take my wife’s ML500 for a second opinion. The local dealer had recommended major repairs to correct a transmission fluid leak. Without telling the technician at Masterclass what the dealer had recommended he confirmed the problem, but at a fraction of the cost. I have been going there ever since. They are all very knowledgeable, friendly and professional. The place is very clean, and if you make an appointment you will be in and out in no time. I highly recommend them.

— Enrique Ruiz via Google+

Bentley Continental GT, GTC & Flying Spur: Common Problems

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The Bentley Continental GT is definitely an elegant, British beauty. With craftsmanship and design cues that stay true to its legacy, the Bentley GT also pushes the limits of luxury and performance. First released in 2003, replacing the Rolls-Royce-based Continental R and Continental T, it has quickly become a fast-selling model throughout the U.S. and China.

Air Suspension Problems

With all its beauty, though, there are some common issues to note. The Bentley Continental’s Continuous Dampening Control (CDC) is an adjustable air suspension that helps deliver vehicle stability and agility. But at 5,456 pounds, The Bentley Continental GT’s curb weight can put a lot of pressure on the shocks. Many owners have experienced problems with their air suspension even when their vehicle is still at very low mileage.

The list price PER SHOCK at a local dealership can be as high as $3,200.00 NOT INCLUDING labor costs. Therefore, it is not atypical to see a full air suspension job for a Bentley Continental GT to run as high as $16,000! *It is important to note: these types of suspension products must be done in pairs (front/rear). So you can’t just replace one!

At MasterClass Automotive, a leading independent European automotive repair facility in Miami, Florida, they see these problems often. “Air suspension is one of the most common and potentially most expensive repairs we see with Bentley vehicles,” says Ronald Norat, owner and Master Technician at MasterClass Automotive. “Luckily, however, we recently partnered with Arnott Industries, the worldwide leading authority in air suspension products, to offer our customers with a more affordable alternative.”

Arnott offers completely rebuilt, OE front air shocks for the 2003-to-present Bentley Continental, GT and the 4-door 2006-to-present Bentley Flying Spur. Their made in the USA shock features a new rubber air spring bladder manufactured by Continental Contitech along with a new CNC machined aluminum upper housing. Not only will Bentley drivers find these shocks to be up to 50 percent more affordable than the original, but they also come with a Limited Lifetime Warranty and 90-day money-back satisfaction guarantee.

Maintenance Tips

  • When parking your vehicle overnight (especially if for more than a few days) set the adjustable air suspension to the lowest ride setting. This can help alleviate pressure on the air suspension and potentially increase their lifespan.
  •  Test the adjustable air suspension regularly. Maintaining movement in the suspension ensures flexibility in the rubber materials and help prevent the pneumatic parts, valves and sensors from failing due to lack of use.
  • Listen for air leaks coming from the shock area and check for warning lights on the console. Addressing these issues early may help prevent additional damage to surrounding parts in the vehicle.

Out of Warranty Doesn’t Mean Out of Options for Luxury Car Owners in Miami Disgruntled Over Local Dealer Service

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Social media sites reveal top luxury car dealerships in South Florida have some of the lowest customer ratings in the industry for their Service Department operations. Reports of unethical practices, over-billing and poor quality control are leaving local car owners asking questions and looking for alternatives.

For the past decade, South Florida has ranked third behind New York and Los Angeles for total volume of luxury car sales. But it holds the number one spot when calculated on a per-capita basis. Despite the economic downturn, South Florida remains a bling-centric market, with over 30,000 new luxury cars – priced $40,000 and up – sold per year, according to Miami Today.

With historic low-interest auto loans and the now famous “Sign and Drive” promotions offered by many local dealerships for entry-level models, BMW, Mercedes-Benz and Audi brands are no longer just for the one percent.

While new vehicles are under manufacturer warranty – usually for the first four years or the first 50,000 miles – maintaining them is not much of a concern. The service centers of large dealerships will repair most mechanical malfunctions free of charge; sometimes even including scheduled oil service and tire rotation gratis.

But once these luxury vehicles pass the manufacturer’s warranty threshold, repair and maintenance can be a very costly endeavor. Large dealerships across Miami-Dade and Broward typically charge between $120 and $160 per hour for the diagnostics, service and repair of car brands including BMW, Mini, Mercedes-Benz and Audi. For higher-end “exotic” brands like Porsche, Maserati, Bentley and Rolls-Royce that hourly rate can be as high as $180.

You would expect these large franchise dealerships to have the most experience and deliver the best service but that is not always the case. Consumer rating sites like Yelp.com and Google Reviews reveal that many car owners are frustrated with the high rates and poor service they are receiving. Recently the Miami New Times reported the scathing allegations of a former service advisor of one of South Florida’s largest BMW dealerships; adding more questions to the integrity of local dealer service centers.

“For many dealers, it’s a numbers game,” says Tony, a Miami resident who owns two BMWs. “Service advisors keep customers from interacting with the technician actually working on the vehicle and you never really know if your car needs the high-priced repairs they want to bill you for.”

The alternative to dealer service is an independent mechanic. However, most modern European automobiles run on complex electronic systems and require costly computer equipment to diagnose and program them using up-to-date software from individual car brands.

“An independent repair facility could be a good alternative,” assures Ronald Norat , owner and master mechanic of MasterClass Automotive. “But there are a few things to look out for,” he adds. “First, make sure they are certified and specialize in the particular car brand you own. Second, go online and check the review of previous customers. Third, ask to speak directly with the technician to make sure they are knowledgeable and have the equipment they need to properly diagnose the vehicle. And lastly, be sure to ask for a written estimate prior to any work beginning.”

ABOUT MASTERCLASS AUTOMOTIVE: MasterClass Automotive is a leading auto repair facility specializing in high-line, European vehicles. Its master technicians are factory-trained and certified with BMW, Mini, Mercedes-Benz and Bentley among others. Located at 1721 NW 23rd Street in the Allapattah neighborhood of Downtown Miami, MasterClass Automotive is setting a higher standard for personal service and quality workmanship. For more information, visit http://masterclassauto.com or call (305) 351-2012.

RECALL: 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012 BMW X5

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BMW X5 recall: Automaker announces about 35,000 SUVs may have power-assisted steering problem

BMW is recalling about 35,000 X5s from 2009 through 2012 due to an issue that could cause a loss of power-assisted steering. No injuries or accidents have been reported from the problem. BMW is recalling about 35,000 X5 SUVs in the U.S. and Canada because a bolt can break and cause the loss of power-assisted steering.

The recall affects X5 xDrive 35d models with diesel engines from the 2009 through 2012 model years. The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration says the bolt holding a belt pulley can loosen and break. If that happens the SUVs can lose power-assisted steering, increasing the risk of a crash.

So far no crashes or injuries have been reported from the problem. The trouble was discovered last year in Canada. BMW dealers will replace the bolt and tighten it to the proper specifications. They’ll also add a coating that keeps the bolts from coming lose. U.S. owners will be notified about the recall in January.

RECALL: 2005-2007 BMW 7 Series

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BMW is recalling certain model year 2005-2007 7-Series vehicles, equipped with both Comfort Access and Soft Close Automatic options, and manufactured August 23, 2004, through September 3, 2007. Due to a software problem, the doors may appear to be closed and latched, but, in fact, may inadvertently open.
Consequence:

The door may unexpectedly open due to road or driving conditions or occupant contact with the door. The sudden opening may result in occupant ejection or increase the risk of injury in the event of a crash.

Remedy: BMW will notify owners and dealers will update software. The recall is expected to begin in November 2012. Owners may contact BMW at 1-800-525-7417 or email BMW at CustomerRelations@bmwusa.com.

Potential Number of Units Affected: 7,485