Serving All Makes & Models Since 1947
651-228-1316
982 Grand Ave • St. Paul, MN 55105
Mon-Fri: 7am - 6pm
982 Grand Ave • St. Paul, MN 55105
Mon-Fri: 7am - 6pm
Keeping your Car Cool in the Summer
Coolant Inspection
Keeping your vehicle cool is important for your comfort as you drive. In the summer during the heat and warm temperatures, you will want to make sure you keep your vehicle cool and comfortable. You will want to make sure to bring the vehicle in for regular maintenance inspections so that we can check it for any sign of issues or problems. This way we can look for anything that might be starting to wear out, and have it replaced before it fails completely.
Keeping the car cool
It is important to make sure that you do not overwork your vehicle on extremely hot days. Driving in heavy traffic while also having the air conditioner cranked to the highest fan can put extra strain and stress on your vehicle. Keeping the fan running at a comfortable speed or slightly lower will reduce the chance your vehicle will start to overheat. If steam comes from under the hood of the vehicle, make sure that you turn it off as soon as you can. Also remember to make an appointment to have it checked.
Temperature Gauge
It is important to pay attention to the temperature gauge on the dashboard of your vehicle. Keeping an eye on it alerts you to issues. If it starts to rise, then the engine could be getting too hot. When it gets into the red warning area, make sure to pull your vehicle over when you can, and turn the engine off so that the vehicle can cool down. During the summer, remember to check the coolant level in your vehicle. The indicator line that is on the reservoir can show the level. If it is too low, make sure to add more too it. Adding coolant often could indicate that there is a leak in the system. If you notice this, remember to contact us to schedule an appointment for your vehicle.
Cooling System of the Vehicle is Important
The cooling system is important for your vehicle when you drive. The engine creates a lot of heat while you are driving. It is important that this heat is removed immediately. If it is not than there can be problems in oil degradation and possible overheating of your vehicle. This is why it is important that you are maintaining your cooling system. This can help prevent damage to the engine, as well as other parts. If you notice that the vehicle overheats, make sure to bring it in as soon as you can. This can reduce the chance of an unexpected breakdown. There are also some other things to notice when you drive. If you notice an issue, make sure to bring the vehicle in. Doing so can help prevent further problems.
Inspect the Cooling system and Radiator of the vehicle
The radiator is where the coolant goes after it has been through the engine. This is a large grate which allows air to move through it. There is a fan which blows against the radiator along with the air flow that you will be able to get from driving your car. As air moves over the grates, it removes the heat from the coolant and moves it away. If there is a problem with your radiator, it can cause the coolant to not be able to flow through it.
Hoses and Connections should be inspected
There are two hoses which are connected to the radiator which are responsible for bring in the coolant and drawing it out. The upper hose and the lower hose are integral to the operation of the cooling system. Without them, the flow of coolant will cease. This is why if there is a problem with one of the hoses, it will need to be replaced as fast as possible. There is also a line which will allow hot air to escape from the radiator and to the exhaust. This will allow the hot air a place that it can go to. This will help the vehicle to maintain a constant and regular temperature.
Regular Tire Maintenance for your Car
Regular tire inspections are needed. Having the tires properly inspected and maintained will have several benefits for you and your vehicle. Not only will it benefit your vehicle, but it also helps you to have a smooth and comfortable ride. Since the tires are the only part to have contact between the surface of the road and your car, you will want to make sure that they are in the best condition. Always make sure to check the air inflation of them. Before taking a long trip or driving a long distance, check the air pressure. Also remember to check the air when the vehicle has been sitting for several minutes. If you check the air pressure right after driving, you could get a false reading from the heat that is built up.
Also remember to have the tires aligned regularly. That helps the vehicle to travel straight when you drive. If you notice the vehicle pulling off in one direction when you keep the steering wheel straight, it could be caused by the tires. One reason could be if the tire is low on air pressure. Another reason it pulls could be poor alignment of the vehicle. If the tires are not aligned, then the tread will wear unevenly as well when you drive. This can result in the tires to be replaced sooner than they otherwise should. If the tread wears down, then the grip on the road will decrease as well.
Regular rotations
Check the tires to see when they need a rotation. This will help the tires to wear evenly on both sides, while also keeping the rubber in the best condition. If you are not sure when a tire rotation would be needed, make sure to contact us and we can advise a schedule for you.
Noises When you Apply the Brakes
Noticing brake noises should always be taken seriously. If you ignore it, then the vehicle will be less reliable and safe when you drive. Make sure to have the brakes inspected on a regular basis so that we can check how all the parts are working, and also wearing. We can also advise when regular maintenance should be done for the brakes. If you notice any issues with the brakes, such as an odd noise, make sure to contact us to schedule an appointment.
Noises from the brakes
You may notice noises that include the brakes making a squealing noise when you apply them. This could mean that the brake pads have worn and are in need of being replaced. They will start to wear against the brake rotors, thus making the squealing or screeching noise. You may also notice a rattle noise as the brake pads start to wear down and wear against the brake rotor. Any other noise that you hear when driving should always be brought to our attention. Contact us to schedule an appointment for your brakes.
There might also be a knocking noise from the brakes. This happens when the brake pads rattle in the brackets. You can determine this if you apply the brakes lightly going over a pothole or bump in the road. If the noise does not occur, the brake pads will be moving. It is always best however, to get a professional opinion.
Notice how the vehicle handles as well when you apply the brakes. Sometimes you may notice the vehicle swerves or jerks suddenly in one direction or the other. This could mean there is an issue with the brake system. It could also mean there is a steering issue. We can test drive the vehicle and inspect it for what the cause may be. Having the vehicle maintained can help keep you safe on the road.
Be Prepared for Spring Showers by inspecting the Windshield Wipers
Spring weather and your car
You will encounter several spring showers and thunderstorms now that spring is here. It is important to make sure that the windshield wipers are able to clear and clean off the windshield as you drive. Without proper working wipers, you will have poor visibility as you drive down the road. There are several different things to look for if you suspect the wipers are starting to deteriorate. One of the first signs is if you notice that the wipers are leaving a smear or streak mark across the windshield as they operate. The main cause is if the rubber on each blade is brittle and worn out.
Remember to turn on the Lights
Also remember that you should have the headlights on for your vehicle if you are using the windshield wipers. This is important because it will not only help you to see the road in front of you, but it will also help others to see where you are as well. It can improve the safety and visibility as you drive when the weather is less than ideal out. This is also true if you notice the weather is foggy or if it is getting dark and your visibility is less than ideal.
Some vehicles also come equipped with a back windshield wiper. You will also want to check this and make sure it is in the best condition possible as well. The rear windshield wiper is designed to help you see behind you clearly, especially when backing up. Sometimes the rear windshield wiper becomes brittle and damaged because of the lack of use compared to the front ones. When you change the windshield wipers, make sure to replace the back one as well. You can also bring the vehicle in and we can see what type of wipers are needed for your vehicle.
We Must Be Doing Something Right…
Lloyd’s Automotive has earned the respect of thousands of vehicle owners since 1947. We have also earned many awards for the quality of our work and the positive comments people make about their experience at Lloyd’s Automotive. We understand that customers are our greatest asset, and awards can come and go, but we wanted to share with you some of the awards that Lloyd’s Automotive has earned in recent years:
AAA Top Shop 12 times…this is an award that is presented when AAA members submit reviews to AAA about their experience at Lloyd’s Automotive. We have to receive a 95% or higher customer satisfaction rating from AAA members. We also have to meet several facility requirements.
4.7 rating on Facebook…a big thank you to all of you that have shared your positive experience on Facebook. Our reviews have quickly become the number 1 reason that new customers are choosing Lloyd’s Automotive.
5.0 stars on Yelp…much like Facebook, Yelpers have been very supportive of Lloyd’s Automotive’s approach to the business of car repair.
Over 100 reviews on Google with a 4.8 rating…Google is the largest factor in new customers choosing Lloyd’s Automotive.
Next-Door Neighborhood recommendations…this is a newer service, but we are very thankful to our neighbors who live in and around the Grand Avenue area that have recommended Lloyd’s Automotive as their favorite auto repair facility.
ASE Blue Seal…There are auto repair facilities that are ASE and there are a select few who are ASE Blue Seal. The Blue Seal means that Lloyd’s Automotive recruits the best employees, constantly support their training, and insist on having the best equipment available in our shop.
Most of these awards are a result of the support, feedback, and reviews provided by our customers. Thank you!! We will never take any customer for granted and we appreciate all the feedback.
Oil Changes are part of Regular Maintenance to Follow for your Vehicle
Why oil changes are important for your vehicle
Oil changes should never be ignored, or forgot about when you own a vehicle. Keeping your vehicle properly maintained is important for the overall longevity. Following regular maintenance tasks are able to help keep the vehicle operating as efficiently as possible. You can check the vehicle owner’s manual to see when certain tasks should be done for your vehicle. Tire alignments, rotations, oil changes, and inspections are needed. Also you will notice that the fluids in your vehicle may need to be changed or flushed. Oil changes should be part of this as well. The oil will help keep the engine running at the best performance it can. If you are not sure how often certain maintenance should be done for your vehicle, you can also contact us. That way we can help get the vehicle on a schedule that will help the efficiency and performance of it.
Engine Performance
Oil changes are needed in order to keep the engine operating efficiently for the vehicle. This will properly lubricate the engine so it runs smoothly. Older oil will make it difficult for the engine to operate smoothly when you drive. You may also start to hear noises or odd sounds from under the hood. If there is a clunking noise, make sure to schedule an appointment with as soon as possible. This way if there is a part that is failing, we can inspect and repair it before it becomes worse. If you ever suspect an issue, always make sure to contact us as soon as possible.
Extra Oil
Remember to have extra oil in your vehicle incase you run low when driving. That way you will be able to add some to the reservoir and reduce the chance of damaging the engine of your vehicle. If the dashboard warning light comes on, make sure to have this looked at as soon as possible. If the light starts to blink, the vehicle should be shut off as soon as you can. Then try restarting it after the vehicle has been turned off for a few minutes. If you run the vehicle without oil in it, you can end up in the engine failing.
Having the Best Visibility Possible when you drive
After a long winter, you may need to replace the windshield wipers. This is because during the winter, the wipers will operate at removing ice, snow, and frost. They will even go over ice chunks that could rip or damage the blades. If this continues without being replaced, then the wipers will no longer be efficient at clearing the windshield. When there is an issue with the wipers, you will start to notice that they chatter or vibrate against the windshield. This will also indicate that the wipers are not properly operating against the windshield. You can also notice that there are smear marks on the windshield as well.
Improve the Visibility by Cleaning the Windshield Wipers
Ideally the windshield wipers should be changed every six months or after summer and winter. This way you can help ensure that the wipers are always in the best condition and able to operate and clear the windshield effectively. You should also make sure to check the rear wiper of the vehicle if there is one. By inspecting the rear wiper, you can help to ensure the best visibility as you look behind too. The wipers can become damage just by sitting outside as well. The sun can cause the rubber portion of the wiper to dry out and crack.
You should also make sure to check the windshield washer fluid in your vehicle as well. This should also be at the proper amount indicated on the reservoir. If you notice that the fluid is going low, often, make sure to schedule an appointment with us. That way we can inspect it for any leaks or damage to the system. If there is any issue, always make sure to have it repaired as soon as possible so it prevents further cost and issues.
Keeping the Tires in the Best Condition
The tires on your vehicle should be inspected on a regular basis. This helps to ensure your vehicle is safe and reliable. If the tires have an issue, your vehicle may be more prone to an unexpected breakdown. Always check the air inflation to ensure it is at the correct amount. When tires have less air in them, they are more prone to blow out. If the tires have too much air, then they can pick up sharp objects on the road. The result would be causing damage to the tires. When the tires are losing air on a frequent basis, there is an issue. Make sure to bring the vehicle in so we can inspect it for you. This will help improve the reliability of the tires and your vehicle as well.
Tread Check for the Tires
Checking the tread of the tires should also be done on a regular basis. You can take a penny and place it upside down in one of the tread grooves. By seeing the top of Lincoln’s head, then you will know that the tread is not at the proper amount that it otherwise should be. Make sure to bring the vehicle in so we can inspect the tread and how it is wearing. If it is wearing unevenly, then a tire alignment or rotation may be needed.
If you Tow Anything
In the spring, you may plan on towing a trailer, you will also want to check the condition of the wheels on that as well. As the tires sit without use, they can start to crack or show signs of dry rot. If a tire loses air pressure while sitting, the tire could be at risk for developing a flat spot on it. Before you take your boat or camper out, always make sure to check the vehicle over so it is in the best operating condition.
What to Inspect on your Vehicle before Towing a Trailer
During the spring and summer, you may want to tow a trailer behind your vehicle. This could include a boat, another vehicle, or even a camper. You will want to make sure your vehicle is in the best operating condition so that it will be able to tow it efficiently and without any issues. If there is an issue with the vehicle, ignoring it will only make it become a bigger problem. Always contact us so that we can inspect the vehicle for you. When there is a problem that we notice, this will help give you time to have it repaired and resolved as soon as possible.
Check the tires before towing
The tires will need to be inspected on your vehicle before towing a trailer. They should be at the proper air pressure. Tires that are under inflated or over inflated can lead to poor fuel mileage of your vehicle. You can also increase the chance of the tire blowing or it picking up sharp objects on the road. Also check the tread wear of the tires as well before driving. If the tread is low, then the vehicle will have poor traction and grip while on the road. You can check the tread by placing a penny upside down in the groove of the tire. If you can see the top of Lincoln’s head, the tread has worn.
Inspect the electrical system
Also remember to make sure that the electrical system is working correctly. You will want to taillights, brakes, and blinkers to work properly. If the trailer is not hooked up correctly to the vehicle, then the lights will not work on it. This can decrease your safety because drivers around you will not know which direction you are turning or if you have to apply the brakes suddenly.