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
Fluids to check in your vehicle
On a regular basis, make sure to have the vehicle’s fluids checked and changed if necessary. By doing this, you can help to keep your vehicle in optimal running form. November is a good time to do this before the winter temperatures really set in. Maintaining the essential level of each fluid is easy, and can help to extend the life of your vehicle by thousands of miles.
Check the Oil in the vehicle
The oil is essential to help the engine run efficiently. It is also critical to long performing motor life. Make sure to bring your vehicle on a regular basis so that the oil can be changed. This can help provide the best-conditioned oil for your vehicle as you drive. It is also important to have the oil filter changed as well. The filter will collect any contaminants that are in the oil, before it passes to the engine.
Make sure there is sufficient Anti-Freeze
Anti-freeze is designed to prevent your vehicle from overheating in the summer, as well as prevent it from freezing up in the winter. If you wait to long to inspect or change the anti-freeze, the used coolant can harm the system of your vehicle. This can result in it not performing the way it should. If you are unsure about the condition of the anti-freeze, make sure to bring your vehicle in. We can inspect it and ensure that it is good condition. This can help you to have a more safe and reliable ride.
Check the Automatic Transmission Fluid
Bring your vehicle in and we can inspect it or change the fluid, depending on the condition. It is important to have this done on a regular schedule, which we can help set you up with. Research has shown that ninety percent of transmission failures are caused by it overheating. Most of these can be blamed on fluid that has been worn out and should have been replaced.
The Brake Fluid is important
When the brake fluid needs attention, it is a good idea to bring it in to a professional. They can inspect it for the condition it is in. If it is no longer able to help be effective to your vehicle, they can change and replace the fluid. This can help to keep the condition of the master cylinder and brake calipers in the best condition possible as you drive. It is a good idea to do this before winter, where there is a greater friction on all parts of the vehicle from cold starts.
Don’t forget about the Power Steering Fluid
The power steering fluid should also be inspected on your vehicle. It should be in the most optimal condition before heading into the cold winter temperatures. By bringing your vehicle in, we can check all the fluids in your vehicle and the condition they are in. This can help your vehicle be more efficient when it runs. It can also help provide you with ease of mind when driving this winter.
Tips for driving on snow and ice
In order to drive safe on roads this winter, it is likely you will have to change your driving habits. Driving on roads in the winter is different than driving in the summer. If you notice any ice or snow covered roads, make sure to slow down to avoid an accident. If you notice roads in less than ideal conditions, try to leave earlier to allow ample time to reach your destination.
Allow your vehicle to warm up
It is a simple tip that people sometimes ignore, but you should warm up your vehicle before driving when it is cold out. Letting the vehicle warm up is important for its own running efficiency. Driving a cold vehicle and going over bumps can cause damage to it, but if has had the chance to warm up, it can absorb the drive better. A warm vehicle also benefits you, as you will not be shivering while trying to drive. When you start your vehicle, also take the time to clear it off. If there is any snow or frost on the vehicle, make sure to brush it away. By scrapping the windows you can also help provide the best visibility possible when you drive.
Warm up the brakes
If possible, when you get ready to go, use your brakes while giving your vehicle a little gas to warm them up. This can also help scrape off any frost that might be on them. The brake can get as cold as everything else for your vehicle. If the roads are covered, you will want to make sure the brakes are in the best condition possible.
Allow yourself enough room to stop
As you drive in the colder temperatures, make sure to keep enough space between you and the vehicle in front of you. Normally it is recommended to keep a three second distance, but if the roads have precipitation on them, you should double or triple the distance. This can allow for more time and distance to stop your vehicle safely. It is also recommended to slow down early for any stop signs or intersections you might be approaching. Equally as important is to not slam on the brakes. Instead, gently apply the brakes to help control your vehicle.
Make turns at a slow speed
Give yourself a wide arc when making turns if you are able to. Angling the wheels too sharply may result in your vehicle sliding rather than turning. Also make sure to do this at a slow and cautious speed. Even if you think the roads are perfect, it is always best to go at a slower speed.
Do not panic if the roads are bad
If the roads are less than ideal, do not panic. Always slow down and go a speed that you are comfortable at. This can help calm any nerves, as well as helping to keep your vehicle under control. If the road has some traffic on it, turn on the hazard lights on the vehicle. This will let other drivers know that you are traveling slower and they can adjust their driving accordingly.
How to have a more Fuel-Efficient vehicle
Going to regular scheduled maintenances is important to help keep the vehicle in the best condition possible. We can inspect the vehicle for any parts that are damaged or worn and need to be replaced. Having regular inspections can help provide you with a safe and reliable vehicle as you drive.
Change your driving habits
To help get better mileage, a change in driving habits may be in order. The easiest thing to change is the speed that you travel. While going fast can be tempting, it can decrease your mileage as you drive. Driving sixty miles per hour instead of seventy miles per hour can save you two to four miles per gallon on your trip. This can add up to huge savings over time. It is also important to not accelerate too quickly or slam on the brakes. Instead, try to anticipated stoplights and signs. Rapid accelerating or braking can waste fuel, as well as causing wear and tear on the brakes. Keeping the windows up can also help to provide better fuel efficiency. Having the windows down can create aerodynamic drag that can cause the engine to work harder.
Have your vehicle well maintained
Inspect the air pressure of the tires on a regular basis. The tires should be inflated to the amount recommended in the vehicle owner’s manual. If the tires are underinflated, there could be concern for a blowout when you travel. Tires that are overinflated can pick up sharp objects on the road and puncture the tire. Improperly inflated tires can also cause uneven wear on the tire, resulting in the need to replace them sooner than necessary. Also make sure to have the air filter inspected and changed as recommended. Air filters that are clean can save up to ten percent on fuel costs. Another beneficial thing you can do is to remove any unneeded weight you might have in the vehicle or trunk. A worn part can cause poor fuel mileage and may have the potential to cause damage to other parts. We can inspect it and replace any part that has become worn or even damaged.
Alter your driving mentality
If you have to go on errand runs, try to combine them into one trip. Going out two or three times a day can cause wear and tear on your vehicle, as well as resulting in poor fuel mileage. Go to the stores all at once to reduce the starting, driving short distances, and stopping of the vehicle. If the stores are fairly close to one another, walk from one store to the other to help save on fuel. Also, when filling up with fuel, try to do it in the mornings or the coolest part of the day. Fuel is denser when the temperatures are cooler out. Since the fuel pumps measure by volume, you will get more for your money if you fill when it is cold.
Maintenance for your vehicle this fall
\Fall is a great time to get your vehicle in for any maintenance that may need to be done. It is always important to go to regularly scheduled maintenances for your vehicle. This way you can help to ensure it is the most efficient working order that it can be in. If you are unsure of how often your vehicle should be brought in for inspections, we can help set up a schedule that works. We can examine the vehicle based on the schedule to see if any parts have worn or been damaged. If parts need to be repaired or replaced, we can advise you on the options you have.
Make sure the lights are working properly
One component of the vehicle that is commonly overlooked until it is needed is the lights. The lights on your vehicle can increase the visibility when you drive. This is especially important to have good visibility when you drive at night, when the range of vision is greatly reduced. The lights also help for other drivers to see where you are.
Top off all the fluids
The fluids of your vehicle should be checked regularly, especially before any long road trip you might take. The fluids should all be topped off to ensure your vehicle could work at an efficient level. One of the most important fluids to top off is the oil. The oil helps to power your vehicle by keeping the engine cool and lubricated. The washer fluid reservoir should be filled with wiper fluid that is better suited for the colder weather. The washer fluid helps to remove any dirt, bugs, road grime, or any other kind of debris from your windshield. Washing away debris and obstructions from the windshield can help to improve the visibility as you drive.
Inspect the Windshield Wipers before winter
The windshield wipers should also be inspected before the winter weather comes. It is recommended to replace the windshield wipers at least once a year. If you notice any cracks or tears in the wiper blades, they should be replaced as soon as possible. A blade in poor condition will not be able to clear way precipitation on the window effectively. If you notice any smudges or streak marks that the blades leave behind when they are in use, you should have the blades replaced before winter arrives. If you are unsure about the condition of the wiper blades, you can always bring your vehicle in and we can inspect them for you.
Inspect the tires on your vehicle
The tires on your vehicle should also be inspected. The air pressure should be checked to ensure it is at the recommended amount. A tire that is underinflated has the risk of blowing out while you are traveling. Tires that are overinflated are more prone to picking up sharp objects that may be on the surface of the roads you travel on. Also inspect the tires for any cracks or puncture marks that might be on it. By having tires in good condition, you can help improve the fuel efficiency of your vehicle.
Noticing if your Transmission is the problem
Making sure to bring your vehicle in for proper scheduled maintenances can help it last as long as it can. A common issue with older vehicles is the transmission. The transmission can start to go out because of any leak or any damage that is done to the torque converter. Keeping your vehicle maintained can help conserve the parts and have them working the most efficient way possible. This can also help to preserve the transmission of your vehicle.
If your vehicle has low fluid levels or leaks
Check and refill the transmission fluid on a regular basis. When you are finished checking the fluid, refasten all the parts and tighten them to make sure there is a proper seal. Fluid lines being punctured can cause leaks under the hood. Worn transmission pan gaskets, poorly secured bolts and seals, as well as other parts wearing out can cause these leaks to start forming. If you notice the fluid levels are low, or that you have to replace them frequently, bring your vehicle in and bring it to our attention.
Check the Torque Converter in the vehicle
Through normal age and miles, the torque converter for your vehicle can sustain damage to its bearings. This is most noticeable because an odd grinding sound can be heard when your vehicle is in gear. If you hear this sound, check the torque converter while the transmission fluid is being changed. You can also bring your vehicle in, and let us know the sound that your vehicle is making. We can inspect your vehicle over and look at the transmission and other connecting parts.
Inspecting the Solenoid for your vehicle
The solenoid in your vehicle manages the flow rate of the transmission fluid. This should be checked if a transmission issue is in question. If there is no evidence of any leaks but the transmission is rough while changing gears, make sure to bring your vehicle in as soon as you can. This way, you can help to prevent any improper wearing or damaging to parts of your vehicle.
Having issues with the Clutch
The clutch that is inside the torque converter can jam when the transmission starts to wear out. You can notice this by the gears becoming sluggish when your vehicle is shifting. You may also start to feel the vehicle shake as the gears shift. Another sign could be the engine temperature starting to rise as you are driving. A jammed clutch can become a serious issue if it is not inspected quickly.
Other issues with the Drive Train
A universal joint may start to become defective and interfere with the power reaching the drive wheels. This is usually determined by a loud squeaking sound that your vehicle makes when it is idling. This has the possibility to cause the transmission mounts to become damaged, resulting in the gearshift slipping. Regular maintenance is an important part to keep your vehicle running in the most effective way possible.
5 Signs that may lead to the wearing out of the Suspension system
Your vehicle’s suspension system is made up of numerous components that work together in order to give you a smooth, even, and stable ride. The suspension system takes a lot of road abuse, as it will absorb those bumps you hit. With age and miles, the parts will begin to wear out and even break. You may notice some signs of parts that are being worn down on your vehicle, and if they are ignored, they can affect the suspension system as well. If your vehicle is not riding or sounding like it used to, make sure to bring it in so we can look at it. It is important to go to regular scheduled maintenances to help keep your vehicle in the best condition possible.
If your vehicle pulls to one side while driving
While you are driving or applying the brakes, you may notice your vehicle pull to one side or the other. Over time, this can begin to damage the suspension system of your vehicle. If you notice this, check the tires for uneven air pressure. Make sure it is at the proper amount recommended by your vehicle’s manufacturer. Also look at your tires for even wear. Sometimes the tire will begin to wear unevenly, and cause your vehicle to pull. This can lead to improper wear of your suspension system, as it is trying to use more power to rotate the wheels correctly.
If you feel the wheels shimmy or wander
When you drive, you may start to notice that your wheels are having a vibrating feel to them. They may also feel like they are beginning to wander. This can be caused from low or uneven air pressure in your tires. Your tires may also be out of balance and alignment, which will put unnecessary friction to rotate. It may also be any steering components that have worn away.
Excessive bouncing over uneven roads
If you notice your vehicle bouncing more than normal over rough roads, it may be time to bring your vehicle in for an inspection. You may also notice your vehicle dipping or diving when you go over any bumps. This can be caused from wearing or worn shocks and struts. When the shocks or struts go out, it will lead to wear and tear on the suspension system, as they are no longer there to support the bumps. Another sign of worn shocks or struts can be any clunking or knocking noise you hear as you travel over bumps or cracks in the road.
Steering wheel that is hard to turn
You may notice that the steering wheel will become hard to turn and steer, especially when you are driving at slow speeds. This can be from low steering fluid or a loose power steering belt. A vehicle that is hard to turn can lead to issues with the suspension system with time.
Steering wheels vibrates when driving
Noticing the steering wheel vibrating at any speed can be a sign of a worn vehicle part. Your tires may be wearing unevenly or excessively when traveling. A warped brake rotor may also cause this because of poor brake pads. No matter what the issue is, make sure to bring your vehicle in so we can inspect it for your safety and comfort while traveling.
Ways to keep your vehicle’s Battery in good condition
To have a proper working vehicle, the battery should be in proper working order as well. A battery that has a clean connection and is fully charged can help benefit you and your vehicle. If the battery is starting to get weak and it is hard to start your vehicle, this may be an indication your battery is starting to fail. When you bring your vehicle in for regular scheduled maintenance inspections, a battery test can be done to determine what condition your battery is in. We will also provide you with some options and recommendations.
Why it is important to keep the battery clean
The most important thing you can do to help maintain your battery is to make sure it is clean. It is equally important to make sure all of the battery’s components are clean and clear as well. If the battery is showing signs of corrosion, a replacement may be needed in the near future. If any dirt or debris on the battery starts to form, it may cause the battery to drain. This is especially common in tight spaces of the battery. It is also important to clean the terminals of the battery where the connections are. The harness clamps should also be looked at and cleaned if needed. During a regular scheduled maintenance, we can inspect and clean the battery for you, which can be helpful as we may notice areas that you cannot see or have forgotten to look at.
Making sure the battery is holding a charge
An important part to a well working battery is to make sure it is holding a charge properly and efficiently. You should have your battery brought in to have it tested if you start to notice that your vehicle is starting slow, or does not start at all. It is possible to have a battery that is overcharged, which will result in it not working as well or efficient as it should be. This can be hard to diagnose because an overcharged battery will act like a battery that is losing power. By brining it in, we can help to determine what the issue with the battery might be.
The importance of a battery for your vehicle
Without the battery for your vehicle, you will not even be able to start your vehicle. It is important to know that the summer’s heat will end up doing more damage to your vehicle’s battery than the winter actually does. This is because the heat will react with the chemicals in the battery, which may result in the battery losing charge or failing all together. If your battery fails when you are traveling, it can be a stressful and inconvenient issue. By keeping the battery in good condition and making sure it, as well as all of its components, is clean you can help to preserve the life of the battery as long as you can. If you are experiencing any issues with starting your vehicle or the battery losing charge, bring your vehicle in so we can inspect the battery to see what the issue might be.
Is the Transmission the problem?
One of the most expensive procedures to have done on your vehicle is a full transmission replacement. However, it is also one of the most important ones too. If you have your vehicle in for scheduled maintenances and catch transmission issues early on, they can normally be fixed relatively easily and inexpensive. If the mechanic notices your transmission is starting to fail, you will be advised of the options you have available.
What to expect if your transmission needs rebuilding
If you notice trouble with the transmission slipping gears or a slight hum from under your hood, it is time to get your transmission looked at. Today, transmission issues offer more options then those in the years past. If your transmission issue requires more than a maintenance flush to correct the concern, you can choose to install a “remanufactured” transmission. Another option is to repair the already existing transmission for your vehicle. Our service advisors will review the pros and cons of the different options you have available to restore your transmission to proper working order.
Signs your transmission needs repairing
There are several warning signs to look for if your vehicle’s transmission is performing badly. Regularly changing your vehicle’s transmission fluid or getting the transmission flushed helps avoid several problems. You should check with your mechanic to set up a maintenance schedule. One single mechanical failure can cause the engine to quit entirely and disable it. It is important to take your car in if you notice any of the warning signs. If you notice your transmission slipping between gears while driving, or even popping back into neutral, this is a sign that that you need to schedule service for your vehicle. Also, you could hear unusual grinding, clunking, or humming noises, or a grinding or thumping noise when the transmission shifts. You may also notice the transmission fluid starting to smell like it is burned. A delay between gear changes and higher than normal RPM’s for any given speed also will indicate your transmission has issues. If problems are caught early enough, many times only minor repairs will be needed, helping to save your transmission as well as saving you money.
Tips to keep your transmission running smoothly
One key thing to do is to make sure you get your vehicle in for it’s scheduled maintenances. Also make sure to check the fluid levels regularly; it is quick and easy to check. When you check the fluids, the first thing to notice is the amount in it. If you notice that you have to keep adding transmission fluid, it is likely there is a leak somewhere. You will also want to make note of how it smells. Also note if there is any color change to the fluid. If you notice either smell or color change, it is time to have your transmission fluid changed. Having the scheduled maintenance of changing your transmission fluid according to the manufacturers mileage intervals will help keep your transmission in the best condition possible.
The Cooling System for your vehicle
Making sure your cooling system is working properly is key in maintaining a well working vehicle. The most important job of the cooling system is to keep the engine from overheating. It moves the heat away from the engine to the surrounding air to prevent your vehicle from overheating. Most of the vehicles on the road today use liquid to cool the engine. You should always make sure it is maintained and that the coolant levels are kept up at the correct levels.
What is the Cooling System?
The cooling system of your vehicle is highly important. This system will make sure your engine and other parts under the hood stay cool and will work as well as possible. If your engine overheats it can cause serious damage to your vehicle, and have a costly bill to have it repaired. Also, the engine in your vehicle will run the best at a fairly high temperature. When the engine is cold, the components will wear out faster and the engine is then less efficient and emits more pollution. Another job the cooling system does is to allow the engine to heat up as quickly as possible, then it helps to keep the engine at a constant temperature. Having the engine operating at the correct temperature will maximize the efficiency of it.
Why you need your Cooling System checked
Keeping the cooling system maintained is important for your vehicle to run efficiently and smoothly. Checking the coolant level regularly and making sure the amount in there is correct, is absolutely essential for your vehicle. You should check this regularly to make sure the fluids are at the level they should be. If you notice the level is low, you should top it off. If you notice the levels are going down significantly and often, make sure to get your vehicle in as soon as possible to have it inspected for any possible problems it may have.
Signs to look for
Most of the time if your vehicle is beginning to overheat, you may notice that the temperature gauge or warning light on your dashboard comes on. This is an indicator that your vehicle is overheating. Even a slight overheating can have a negative effect on your vehicle’s performance and the longevity of your engine. Overheating of your vehicle can be caused by several problems, one being low or worn out coolant. It is always best to have your cooling system inspected regularly rather than to deal with an unexpected failure or issue that could have been prevented by inspections.
Do You Know What to Do if Your Tire Blows Out?
A scheduled maintenance check will sometimes help prevent it
Tires will blowout for a number of reasons, and sometimes it is how many miles the tires have gone. The most common reasons are over-inflation, under-inflation, overloading the weight in your vehicle, or by driving over a road hazard that is sharp and puncture the tire. The tires also wear out naturally after traveling a certain amount of miles. By going to regularly scheduled maintenance checks, you can make sure your vehicle and tires have been examined so they are in proper working order. The tires should be inflated to the proper amount needed to ensure good rotation and wear evenly. Also check the tires to make sure the tread has not worn away, leaving bald tires.
What to do if the tire blows out?
The most important thing to remember is not to step on the brake. This becomes an issue because with a flat tire, this transfer of weight can lead to the loss of control of the vehicle. Instead, when you hear the tire pop, gradually release the accelerator and correct the steering as necessary to stabilize your vehicle and regain control. Once you have it under control, continue to slow down and pull off the road where it is safe to do so. When you are completely off the road, turn your hazard lights on and open the hood and trunk of your vehicle to make yourself more noticeable.
How to fix a blown tire
The first way you can repair it is with a water-based sealant. This can be injected into the tire through the valve stem. You can also use a patch to repair the tire. Placing a patch on the tire involves removing the tire, applying rubber cement and the patch to the inside of the tire, and then pressing it to the surface. The last option is a tire plug, which can be used to repair the tire without actually having to remove the tire. The puncture is removed from the tire and a plug coated in rubber cement is then inserted. All are good temporary fixes until you can get your car in.