Auto Electrical Service: 5 Signs of Problems!

Do you know what to look for if your vehicle is starting to experience some of the symptoms listed below? Unfortunately, if you are noticing any of these signs, your car is probably in need of some kind of auto electrical service. These are signs that most likely your car has one of many possible problems associated with starters or alternators, and without a little attention, this problem can cause issues ranging from “slow” starts to a “no” start situation.

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• Warning Lights – Look at warning lights asa friend, and not something to fear when they come on. They let us know that our auto is not working properly and needs attention. Especially when the “check engine” light comes on, it is wise to seek the advice of an auto mechanic without delay.
• Dim Lights – If you notice you can’t see the road very well because your car’s headlights are dim, or if the interior lights dim periodically, this may be the sign of an electrical issue. Have an auto electrical service performed on your vehicle when possible, as alternators that aren’t working properly won’t keep a battery charged to function efficiently.
• Sight, Sound & Smell - If you are hearing unusual sounds from your car’s motor, have it checked out as soon as possible. A burnt smell or over-heating electrical connections can be the symptom of a serious electrical circuit or fuse malfunction.
• Dead Battery – One of the most common malfunctions is a dead battery, especially in the winter months when the temperatures drop low and our auto’s lights are on for extended periods of time. Or, it can also happen when headlights or interior lights are left on. A jump-start by a friend will usually take care of this problem. But, it’s wise to have your car battery inspected to see if it needs to be replaced. A strong battery can prevent future repairs to starters and alternators.
• Broken or Loose Electrical Connections – One broken single little wire or small connection can lead to a myriad of electrical malfunctions. Don’t delay in having an auto electrical service, as sometimes, simply reconnecting an on-line fuse or connection can bring life back to your car.

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Stay in Charge This Winter – Take care of your Car Battery

Learn how to keep your car battery running strong this winter so you don’t get stranded out in the cold waiting for a car battery replacement. Remember these winter car battery service tips for the best cold-temperature performance:

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• Purchase the correct car battery of appropriate size with sufficient cranking power (consult your local auto mechanic and your owner’s manual).
• Purchase one of good quality.
• Keep it clean and have it checked by a professional. Some corrosion can’t be seen.
• Have it tested at every oil change (every 3,000 miles).
• Have the cables, posts and fasteners inspected to ensure they are in good shape and secured firmly.
• Have your starting and charging system tested every six months.
• Use a battery charger to maintain charge levels.

Your car battery is one of the most important components in the performance of your vehicle. If it is not routinely checked and serviced, your vehicle’s dependability is at risk. A car battery is one of the most important auto parts that you will be required to purchase if you own your vehicle for more than two or three years. At some point in time, a car battery replacement will more than likely be necessary. When your car battery starts to fall below your vehicle’s starting requirements, be sure to purchase a quality battery that meets the manufacturer’s requirements.

A Tip to Remember: Have your car battery serviced on a regular basis to maintain a reliable vehicle that will start at a moment’s notice and not leave you out in the cold!

If you are in need of professional battery service, contact our ASE Certified Technicians today by calling (763) 389-3811, or go on-line at http://www.rumriverauto.com/ for more information. Since 1997, our auto shop Princeton, MN has served customers in Princeton, MN, and in the surrounding areas of Milaca and Zimmerman, MN.

Engine Rebuild? Prevent it with quality Engine Service!

It’s not what you want to hear from your auto mechanic after he has taken a look at your car to diagnose what is causing the clattering noise and smoking exhaust. No engine service is more major than an engine rebuild. This type of engine service usually requires a lot of time and money. Before making a decision to either replace your old engine with a new one or to have an engine rebuild, it is wise to consider the differences between them.

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Engine Replacement – A replacement typically involves either a new engine from the factory or one that has been reconditioned. The new is more expensive, but typically has a better warranty. A reconditioned engine (one that has been entirely disassembled, repaired with either reconditioned parts or new parts and reassembled) is less expensive, but generally does not have the same warranty as new. Both choices are reliable. Your decision will depend on what you can afford to pay, and how long your vehicle has to stay in the auto shop. If you plan to sell or trade your car anytime soon, it would probably be most economical to have a reconditioned engine installed instead of brand new.

Engine Rebuild – This is when the automotive shop removes the original engine from your car and rebuilds it from top to bottom. This means repairing parts that can be repaired and replacing other parts that are not salvageable with either reconditioned or new. Then, it is reassembled and reinstalled into your car. The cost of an engine rebuild depends upon the automotive service center and their resources.

Get all the facts before choosing between a replacement or a rebuild so you can make a wise and intelligent decision.

If you are in need of professional engine service, contact our ASE Certified Technicians today by calling (763) 389-3811, or go on-line at http://www.rumriverauto.com/ for more information. Since 1997, our auto repair shop has served customers in Princeton,MN, and in the surrounding areas of Milaca and Zimmerman, MN.

Vehicle Maintenance: 10 Tips for Good Car Maintenance

Yes, 10 Tips!

According to recent studies, 5 percent of all motor vehicle fatalities are clearly caused by neglecting necessary vehicle maintenance. The following simple and inexpensive preventive checks will greatly extend the life of your vehicle, ensure safer operation, and even benefit the environment. Always consult your owner's manual for individual car maintenance service schedules as requirements vary by manufacturer.

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Check out these 10 Tips for Vehicle Maintenance!

1. Change the oil filter regularly--consult your owner's manual, but a general rule of thumb is every 3,000 to 4,000 miles.
2. Have all fluids checked, including brake, power steering, transmission/transaxle, windshield washer solvent, and antifreeze. These fluids enhance the safety and performance of the vehicle.
3. Check tire inflation (at least once a month). Under-inflated tires can result in a loss of fuel efficiency. This is the least expensive form of preventive and safety maintenance.
4. Keep your engine tuned up. A fouled spark plug or plugged/restricted fuel injector can reduce fuel efficiency by as much as 30 percent.
5. Have the chassis lubricated frequently to help extend the life of the moving components of the suspension system.
6. Check battery cables and posts for corrosion and clean them as needed. The battery fluid also should be checked and filled if it is too low, unless it is a “maintenance-free” battery.
7. Check the lighting system frequently, including headlights, turn signals, brake lights and taillights.
8. Check windshield wiper blades for cracks, tears and windshield contact. Replace them at least once a year or sooner if streaking begins.
9. Inspect engine belts regularly for cracks and missing sections. Worn belts will affect engine performance.
10. Check the air filtration system frequently to ensure that the vehicle is performing at its peak condition. The air filter should be checked every other oil change for clogging or damage.

To stay safely on the road with good car maintenance, contact our ASE Certified Technicians today by calling (763) 389-3811, or go on-line at http://www.rumriverauto.com/ for more information about vehicle maintenance. Since 1997, our auto repair shop has served customers in Princeton, MN, and in the surrounding areas of Milaca and Zimmerman, MN.

Car Tune Up Princeton MN: Car Shopping Tips from the Tune Up Specialists!

If you’re tired of your old “clunker” always needing some form of auto repair or tune up, you may be ready to turn it in and head out the door to look for a reliable used car or truck. You don’t want to worry whether it needs a basic car tune up, or has some other complex problem that is lurking just under the hood.

In a recent survey by Kelley Blue Book, the majority of car shoppers plan to buy used and spend less than $15,000. The competition is fierce, making it a buyer’s market. To help you through this daunting experience, here are a few tips:

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• 
  

  THE SEARCH

  • Find the type of vehicle you want to purchase: websites, auctions, classified ads, reviews, on-line forums;
  • Locate the cars you’re interested in: selecting those within the Kelley Blue Book price range (you want to know the value of your current vehicle and the one you want to purchase);
  • Ask for a history report: this will tell you whether it’s had a regular car tune up schedule, been in an accident, or other important information;
• 
  

  THE EVALUATION

  • Ask questions. If buying from a dealership, ask about the documentation fee, or any other hidden charges. Is there a dealer’s guarantee, manufacturer’s warranty or extended warranty left on the car, and if so, is it transferrable? Does the car have a clean title?
  • Consider the mileage. The ideal used car mileage ranges from 10,000 to 15,000 per year.
  • Go for a ride—hit the brakes, listen to the road noise, gun it a little, check for unacceptable blind spots, drive over bumps, inspect it for dings, inspect tire tread, check for fluid leaks and exhaust smoke.
  • Evidence that the car may be in need of a tune up or major repairs: poor gas mileage, sluggish acceleration, rough idling or stalling, “check engine” light flashes or stays on.
  • Schedule an inspection with a certified auto mechanic if purchasing from a private party. If you’re purchasing from a dealer, an inspection and a car tune up has most likely been performed.
• 
  

  THE PURCHASE

  • Negotiate the price you want to pay and stick to it.
  • Do the paperwork. If buying from a private party, you will need to go the DMV with a bill of sale to register and transfer the title. A dealership will usually handle this for you.

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Tires Princeton MN: 3 Tips to Prevent Unexpected Tire Repair Problems

Taking good care of your tires is truly an investment in your vehicle. However, they are one of the most overlooked of all of a vehicle’s components. Checking for any potential problems on a monthly basis (especially if you have a long commute to work or school) is the best way to prevent costly tire repair or even more expensive damage from occurring to your car. Most importantly, you are maintaining the safety of you and your passengers.

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3 tips to prevent unexpected Tire Repair:

• Check air pressure and take care of any under-inflated tires immediately. The resistance of an under-inflated tire will cause heat, causing damage which could result in a tire repair or replacement, not to mention increased fuel consumption. Don’t forget to check the spare. Inspecting and filling your spare at the same time is good practice so that you will not be left stranded by the side of the road with a flat.
• Check the tread depth. Place the edge of a penny upside down in the grooves. If you can see all of Lincoln’s head, it’s time for a replacement. Is the inside groove and the outside edge wearing evenly? If not, this may be a sign that your car is out of alignment. Do you feel your steering wheel vibrating? Your tire may have lost its balance weight. Having the necessary wheel alignment or wheel balancing will help maintain the overall ride, comfort, and handling of your vehicle.
• Rotate your tires every 5,000 to 7,000 miles so that all four will wear at the same rate. If there are signs of excessive wear and tear, don’t just replace one--have all four replaced. If that isn’t possible, purchase the two front ones, or the two back ones, at the same time. Consider the climate where you live and the use of your vehicle when determining the best type to purchase.

For expert advice on care for your tires, tire repair, or for any other vehicle maintenance issues, contact our ASE Certified Tire Technicians today by calling (763) 389-3811, or on-line at http://www.rumriverauto.com/ for more information. Since 1997, our auto shop Princeton, MN has served customers in Princeton, MN and in the surrounding areas of Milaca MN and Zimmerman MN, Minnesota area.

Auto Center Standards Princeton MN? What to Look for in an Auto Shop

With today’s busy schedules of work, school, sports activities, and recreation, folks have little or no time to visit an auto shop to find the right one for their vehicle’s service and repair work. However, as you probably already know, it’s even more difficult to make do-it-yourself auto repairs in today’s newer vehicles. This is why it’s so important to make time in your schedule to find the right auto center.

Do you need some guidelines to help you find the ideal auto center? Choose an auto shop based on the standards outlined below for a service or repair.

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Here are a few easy-to-follow tips to save you time in locating an auto shop:

• Try to find an auto shop that you feel comfortable with before you actually need one. Use it for minor auto repairs or service, such as an oil change or tire rotation. If you are satisfied with the work performed on small jobs, you will more likely use them again for an even more extensive auto repair. This will help you avoid being rushed into an unnecessary, and probably expensive, auto repair with an auto shop that you don’t know very well.
• Ask for referrals from your friends for their recommendations for a reliable, well-qualified auto shop. Don’t forget to check with the Better Business Bureau. Ask if there are any complaints; what were they about, and how were they resolved.
• Choose an auto shop for more than just a convenient location, although that would be an added bonus. Sometimes driving a little further can mean better service, and may even save you money.
• Visit the auto center to see if it is kept clean and well-organized. Look at the service bays to see if the equipment is modern and well-maintained.
• Make sure the auto shop is professionally run with helpful, courteous and trained staff. Look around the lobby for any community-service awards, Better Business Bureau endorsements, ASE certificates, or plaques for civic involvement.

If you want an auto shop that has high-quality professionals to service your vehicle, contact our ASE-Certified Technicians today by calling (763) 389-3811, or go on-line at http://www.rumriverauto.com/ for more information about automotive repair. Since 1997, our auto shop has served customers with auto repair Princeton MN, and in the surrounding areas too for auto repair Milaca MN and auto repair Zimmerman MN, Minnesota area.

Automotive repair Princeton MN: 5 Car Service Tips to Maintain Your Cool

If you’re finally getting ready to take that long-awaited vacation during the last few weeks of summer, you probably don’t want to spend it being towed to a strange town for a car repair, or even stranded on the side of the road waiting for help. This situation usually means more than just a car repair bill. It can involve towing charges, lodging, rental car, extra phone calls, meals, and the general inconvenience of missed reservations. An unexpected automotive repair not only becomes expensive, but it can bring an abrupt end to vacation plans. This scenario could possibly have been avoided by a pre-vacation car service before leaving home.

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So you can enjoy the last few weeks of summer, here are 5 ways to maintain your car, and your cool!

1. Cooling System // Coolant can top 200 degrees. Have it inspected and serviced at the recommended car service intervals.
2. Air Conditioning System // Your A/C works hard in the summer heat, so have it inspected and serviced by certified technicians to make sure it’s working properly.
3. Battery // Excessive heat can take its toll on your battery and charging system. Clean off any corrosion from the battery terminals and connections and have the battery and charging system tested to be sure it’s ready for those last hot days of summer.
4. Tires// Hot weather and long road trips mean added stress on your tires. Be sure to check the air pressure and tread wear on a regular basis.
5. Oil & Filter // Dirty oil, or low oil level can lead to more costly repairs. For proper cooling and lubrication, change your oil and filter regularly.

Not only can a pre-trip car service reduce the chance of costly and possibly dangerous road trouble, it also provides an opportunity to have your car repair made at home by an auto mechanic who is familiar with your car. While no inspection can guarantee a vehicle’s performance, you will gain peace of mind knowing you took the proper precautions for the safety of your family.

So that you feel confident starting down the road, have a car service performed by a qualified auto mechanic. Contact the ASE-Certified Technicians today by calling (763) 389-3811, or go on-line at http://www.rumriverauto.com/ for more information about automotive repair. Since 1997, our auto center Princeton MN has served customers in the surrounding areas with automotive repair Milaca and automotive repair Zimmerman, Minnesota.

Are Your Brakes Stopping Your Car? Is It Time for a Brake Replacement?

If you are beginning to feel nervous that your brakes aren’t stopping your car in good time, you should have them checked out immediately for a brake replacement. You may be putting your life and the life of your passengers at risk if your brakes are not in good condition. Keeping your brake system well-maintained is crucial for any vehicle’s ability to stop safely under a wide variety of road conditions and weather. An added benefit is that your car will operate with better fuel efficiency.

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Do you know how Brakes work?

• Force is applied to the pedal (stepping down on it)
• This force generates hydraulic pressure in the master cylinder
• This pressure flows through the hydraulic lines to the wheel cylinders and calipers
• This forces the shoes against the drums, and the pads against the rotors.
• The resulting friction slows the vehicle relative to the amount of force applied (how hard you push down on the pedal).

It’s good to know that brakes are a normal wear item for any car and a brake replacement will probably be inevitable at some point in time. Your driving habits, operating conditions, vehicle type, and the quality of the lining material are some of the factors that affect wear and tear.

Here are 6 signs of wear and tear that are important for you to notice when braking:

• Your car pulls to one side
• The pedal pulsates
• A “mushy” feeling when you step on the pedal
• Noise—squealing, whining sounds
• Adding brake fluid to the master cylinder repeatedly
• The noise of “metal-to-metal” contact

When you think about the wear and tear of brakes, it is much better to be safe than sorry! You need look no further for professional service for a brake replacement, or any other complete car care service. Contact our ASE-Certified Technicians today by calling (763) 389-3811, or go on-line at http://www.rumriverauto.com/ for more information. Since 1997, our auto repair shop has served customers in auto shop Princeton, MN, and in the surrounding areas of auto repair Milaca and auto repair Zimmerman, Minnesota.

Transmission Service Princeton, MN Prevents Transmission Repair!

Whether your vehicle has a manual or automatic transmission, it is inevitable that at some point in time it may need some form of transmission repair. This may be one of the most expensive auto repairs you have to make on your vehicle. Following the vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations for transmission service not only prolongs its life but can prevent a costly breakdown and transmission repair in the future.

4 signs of trouble:

1. Leaking Fluid. Fluid is necessary to cool and lubricate the moving parts of a transmission to maintain a safe and constant operating temperature. The fluid reduces the amount of potentially damaging heat inside the transmission and helps maintain and prolong its use. If the fluid is not kept at the proper level, the pump and other components will quickly begin to wear out.Transmission fluid and filters (just like oil) need to be replaced periodically to keep it running smoothly and efficiently.
2. Check Engine Light. The “check engine” light can be an early indicator that something is starting to go wrong and you should have a transmission service performed as soon as possible. Newer cars have sensors throughout the engine that pick-up irregularities and notify the computer that something is wrong in a particular area. These sensors can detect vibrations and early problems that you may not even be able to feel or see.
3. Grinding, Shaking, Whining, Clunking, and Buzzing. A common sign of trouble in manual transmissions is a grinding sound that is abrupt and mechanical when you shift into a new gear.In automatics, you may hear a whining or buzzing sound. You may feel the car shimmy into each gear, or make a jarring transition, rather than the typical, almost unnoticeable shifts.If this is the case, your automatic may need an adjustment, or possibly some type of transmission repair.
4. Lack of Response. With a manual, you may notice after shifting that the engine will rev up, but the car isn’t moving as quickly as the engine is running. This could be caused by a worn out clutch. Or, if the shift linkage is out of adjustment, the stick shift could pop out of gear and back into neutral. Automatics can have the same lack-of-response problem, noticed when engaging the "Park" or "Drive" selection. If your automatic hesitates when shifting, then it’s likely that a transmission service will be necessary.

Do you need transmission service performed by qualified mechanics? Contact our ASE-Certified Technicians today for transmission repair advice by calling (763) 389-3811, or go on-line at http://www.rumriverauto.com/ for more information. Since 1997, our auto repair shop has served customers in auto shop Princeton, MN, and in the surrounding areas of auto repair Milaca and auto repair Zimmerman, Minnesota.

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Tires: Incorrect or Correct Tire Repair?

One of the most distressing sights you may see when you are getting into your car could be flat tires. Not only do you have to change the flat before you can drive off, you will need a tire repair. To minimize potential deterioration started by the puncture, it’s a good idea to have it repaired immediately.

Most punctures are caused by small nails and screws less than ¼” in diameter. Generally, the manufacturer’s guidelines allow tire repair of punctures in tread in an area up to ¼” in diameter. However, in the case of larger tread punctures or punctures to the tire’s shoulder and sidewall areas, a replacement is strongly recommended.

Consider these 3 things when having punctures repaired:

• Evaluate the size and scope -- Any tire repair attempted without removing it from the wheel is not correct. Punctures may look repairable from the outside, but when inspected from the inside, damage also may be found inside. Without taking if off, the damage would have been missed.

• Re-establish an airtight seal of the tire’s innerliner – Typically, a mushroom-shaped patch and plug combination will reseal the innerliner effectively on a punctured steel belted radial.

• Completely fill the path the object took through the tire -- A tire repair is complete only if it fills the path the object took. If the innerliner has been punctured, it must be cleaned, buffed, cemented, patched and coated to restore its ability to retain air. This can only be done from inside.

How do you know which procedures a mechanic uses? Ask them! A correct tire repair that follows the Rubber Manufacturer’s Association’s multi-step procedures will usually take about 30 minutes.

As a word of caution, driving on a damaged tire will cause further damage and deteriorate its strength over time. More importantly to consider, when driving at high speeds on an improperly repaired tire, it may suddenly fail, and cause loss of control of your vehicle.

For expert advice on tire repair, contact our ASE Certified Tire Technicians today by calling (763) 389-3811, or go on-line at http://www.rumriverauto.com/ for more information. Since 1997, our auto repair shop has served customers in auto shop Princeton MN, and in the surrounding areas of auto repair Milaca and auto repair Zimmerman, Minnesota.

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Auto Repair: How Do You Describe Your Auto Repair Shop?

When you are asked to describe your auto repair shop, do the words “qualified” and “trustworthy” come to mind? Are the mechanics at your auto shop qualified to perform all types of auto repair on any make or model of vehicle, domestic or foreign? Or do you have to go from one shop to another to take care of the maintenance and repairs on your car?

The professional technicians at Rum River auto repair shop specialize in complete car care for all forms of vehicle maintenance and repairs. We believe in good communication and relationship-building with our clients, and offer assistance with towing, shuttles and free loaners. For your peace of mind, all of our auto repairs include a 2 year/24,000 mile warranty.

Our mechanics will provide you with honest and professional auto repair service in a timely and cost-efficient manner. Because today’s modern vehicles are more complex than ever, our technicians and consultants have been well-trained and are highly qualified to perform repairs and maintenance on any type. With new technology always evolving in the auto industry, our mechanics are in a constant mode of training to keep pace with these advances.

Rum River Automotive was founded by Troy Minske in 1997 and became Princeton's automotive service Leader for all makes and models - both domestic and import vehicles. As an award winning auto repair shop they are able to provide full service auto repairs using the latest diagnostic equipment and friendly staff. With their ASE certified technicians, leading 2 Year / 24,000 mile warranty, Free W-Fi in the lobby, and 24 hour towing available they became the logical alternative to a dealership for vehicle owners in Princeton, Milaca and Zimmerman, MN. "Redefining Trust since 1997!"

The next time you are asked to describe your auto repair shop, you can say “Rum River Automotive.” Our professional auto mechanics can be trusted for all your auto repair needs, from a simple oil change to a major engine rebuild. Contact our ASE Certified Technicians today by calling (763) 389-3811, or go on-line at http://www.rumriverauto.com/ for more information. Since 1997, our auto repair shop serves customers in Princeton, MN, and in the surrounding areas of Milaca and Zimmerman, Minnesota.

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