How Do You Know If Your Car Has Electrical Problems?

If your vehicle is starting to act a little strange, such as a dash light coming on for a brief moment, dimming headlights, flickering gauges, or maybe an odd smell, it could one or more of some causes.  So how do you know if your car has electrical problems?  Without getting the right diagnosis, this issue can cause car trouble ranging from slow starts to a car that won’t start all.  Take your car into your auto repair shop for a diagnostic test as soon as possible so you don’t find yourself stranded wherever on a cold winter day.

The truth is, the alternator is often the culprit for electrical issues.  It is a relatively simple part but it plays a critical role in a car's operation.  The mechanical energy of the engine's rotating crankshaft is turned into electricity through the alternator, which then powers your car's accessories as well as keeps the battery charged.

A failing alternator can show itself in some different ways:

1. Dashboard Warning Light – This little light serves as a warning that there are issues looming with the alternator.    
2. Strange Sounds – Strange sounds coming from under the hood indicates that the pulley in the alternator could be bad. 
3. Burning Smell – A burning smell could be caused by an over-heating alternator, worn-out wires, or a circuit or fuse malfunction.
4. Dim Lights – The car battery isn’t getting a charge from the alternator to run the lighting system.
5. Dead Battery – This is especially common during the winter months when lights are on for longer and more often or if the lights are left on after turning the car off.  Although a jump-start to the battery took care of the instant issue, remember to have your battery and alternator checked in case they are starting to go bad.
6. Electrical Malfunctions – Broken connections a little wire can lead to malfunctions in the electrical parts, such as power windows, door locks, and accessories, just to name a few.  Simply reconnecting an in-line fuse can bring life back to your car.  

Are you worried about how do you know if your car has electrical problems?  Call our ASE Certified Technicians at Rum River Automotive for more information about alternator issues and to request an appointment.  Our automotive shop has served car owners in Princeton, MN, and in the surrounding areas of Milaca, MN, and Zimmerman, MN.  

When Do You Need To Change Your Brakes?

Experienced car owners understand that correctly working brakes are important for driving safety.  It’s often tempting to postpone replacing parts as long as possible because of tight budgets.  Though, the complex hydraulic mechanisms and multiple parts in the braking system are continuously working as you drive and will want to be replaced fairly regularly. The sorry truth is, delaying a need brake repair often means a costly brake replacement will more than likely become compulsory.  Worse yet, a serious accident could occur because of failing brakes.

Here are several brake maintenance tips that can help prevent a premature and expensive brake replacement:

• Schedule Regular Brake Service -- Brake maintenance includes installing new brake pads, reappearing rotors, or replacing dirty brake fluid. Remember to find a qualified brake repair specialist and use parts specifically designed to fit your vehicle's braking system. 
• Use High-Quality Parts -- It is smart to use high-quality replacements for brake pads and rotors. Although they cost a little more, they will last you longer and be more effective.
• Practice Good Driving Habits -- By simply slowing down earlier, avoiding abrupt stops, and not riding the brake pedal, these simple and cheap methods will help increase the performance and long life of your brakes.
• Rebuilt vs. brand-new calipers -- It may be possible to use rebuilt calipers rather than brand new ones.  Many car drivers don’t know that rebuilt calipers are half the cost of new ones and there is no recognizable difference in braking performance. 

Remember:  Keep your brakes in good condition before your safety is compromised.  Spending a few dollars upfront on brake service will save you money in brake repairs!

Are you wondering when do you need to change your brakes?  Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Rum River Automotive to make an appointment and to find out more about brake repair service.  Since 1997, our auto repair shop has served car owners in Princeton, MN, and in the surrounding areas of Milaca, MN, and Zimmerman, MN.  

What Happens When Your Axle Breaks?

The answer to this question is relatively simple.  If your car shocks or struts are becoming worn, hitting a bump in the road could cause damage to the car axles.  It could even cause them to break. Because axles are constantly rotating and flexing to accommodate different road conditions, they can wear out and fail.  

Axles are involved in the steering, driving, and braking of the vehicle, linking the power from the engine to the tires, plus carrying the whole weight of the vehicle and its parts.  The performance of your vehicle's wheels and suspension system is essentially dependent on the condition of the axles.  If an axle is bad, it puts extra stress on the shocks or struts, causing them to wear out prematurely. Bad axles can also result in excessive wear on your tires. 

Even though most people don’t keep a vehicle long enough for a car axle to break, it’s still good to know what happens when your axle breaks.  Here are several fairly obvious signs:

• A sudden clanking sound heard when you put your vehicle into gear
• Feel vibrations in the car when driving, braking, or going around a bend.
• Power is not being transmitted from the engine to the wheels.

You may also be wondering what causes a broken axle:

• Overload. When there is too much load, such as too much cargo or too many passengers, the axles may not have enough strength to hold the wheels in place.
• Metal fatigue. As cars age, the axles become more brittle and/or corroded, thereby reducing the strength of the axles.
• Off-Road conditions.  Again, because axles carry the weight of the vehicle, excessive stress and force caused by bumps in the road can cause axles to break.

So that your vehicle will keep performing as it should, schedule regular inspection of the suspension system to make sure it is in good shape, especially the axles and shocks or struts.

What happens when your axle breaks?  Call our ASE Certified Technicians at Rum River Automotive for more information suspension systems and to make an appointment to check the axles and shocks or struts.  Since 1997, our auto repair shop has served vehicle owners in Princeton, MN, and in the surrounding areas of Milaca, MN, and Zimmerman, MN.  

Why Vehicle Maintenance is Important for Fall?

With summer almost behind us and cooler days on the way, it’s time to start thinking about getting your car ready for fall. Here are several easy car maintenance tips that will help keep your vehicle in tip-top condition so that you are driving as safe and relaxed as possible:  

• Car Battery – Fall is a good time to check your car battery, making sure the cables and terminals are tight for good contact. If you are going to store your vehicle for an extended period of time, you may want to invest in a trickle charger. 
• Headlights – As cars age, the headlights can become cloudy, especially if you routinely park outside. Cloudy lenses compromise your night vision and reduce the effectiveness of your headlights by up to 80 percent.  Headlight restoration kits are available for very little cost.
• Tires – Proper maintenance and responsible driving can enhance the number of miles you will get out of a set of tires. Monthly tread inspections are important. If you notice that your tires have less than 1/8-inch of tread left, it’s time for new tires.  All-season tires provide well-rounded performance and may be enough for your climate.  If you live in a snowy climate, snow/winter tires may be what you want.  
• Wash and Wax – Wash your car to clean off summer’s dead bugs, bird droppings, and tree sap.  You can then wax it as it will help keep your car’s finish looking new, although waxing may want to be done about every 2 or 3 months.
• Windshield Wipers – If your wipers are leaving streaks of water on your windshield, then it’s time to replace them—or clean them. Wipers deteriorate quickly and usually want to be replaced every 6 to 12 months. 
• Potential issues – Pay attention to signs of potential issues, such as vibrations or uneven noise, or if your car starts to “drift” to the side of the road.  Inform your auto mechanic of your observations so that they can be checked out and fixed to prevent small issues from turning into big issues.   

Need to know more about why vehicle maintenance is important for fall?  Call our ASE Certified Technicians at Rum River Automotive for more information about the recommended car maintenance schedule and to make an appointment.  Since 1997, our auto repair shop has served vehicle owners in Princeton, MN, and in the surrounding areas of Milaca, MN, and Zimmerman, MN.  

What Causes a Car Battery to go Bad?

If your battery is starting to fail, you may be experiencing issues, such as your vehicle won’t start, move, or power the electrical accessories.  You may be wondering just what causes a car battery to go bad?  There are various reasons, such as: 

1. The battery connections and cables may be loose, broken, corroded, or calcified, 
2. The fluid level in the terminals may be too low,
3. An electrical current from an accessory or operating system is drawing power from the battery even when the car is turned off.
4. Extremely hot or cold Weather will weaken your battery if it is already starting to die.
5. The automatic stop-start technology in newer cars places additional strain on your car battery.  
6. The powerful computers found in today’s cars are operating continuously, even when the vehicle is turned off, drawing energy from the battery at a slow, steady rate. 
7. The charging system, which includes the starter and alternator, maybe going bad.    

Under normal driving conditions, car batteries can become worn down and inefficient between 3 to 5 years.  It may be almost completely unreliable once it reaches the 4-year mark.  A weak battery can have a negative effect on all the components of the auto electrical system, such as headlights, power windows, radio, etc.  Just like a cell phone battery becomes less efficient with every charge, so it is with your car battery.  Every time you drive your car the alternator is recharging the battery, diminishing its effectiveness.

Here are several signs that it may be time for a car battery replacement:

1. Your engine cranks but it doesn’t start. 
2. Clicking sound when you turn the key 
3. Your vehicle may One day it starts fine, then the next day it won't start at all.

Remember:  Add car battery maintenance to your maintenance checklist, along with changing the oil, air filter, tire rotation, and windshield wipers.   

Need more information about what causes a car battery to go bad?  Consult our ASE Certified Technicians at Rum River Automotive for more information about a car battery replacement and to make an appointment.  Since 1997, our auto repair shop has served vehicle owners in Princeton, MN, and in the surrounding areas of Milaca, MN, and Zimmerman, MN.  

What Can Cause a “Service Engine Soon” Light to Come On?

Regular engine service is the best way to make sure your vehicle provides you with reliable transportation as long as you want it to.  If you think you are starting to experience engine issues, the “Service Engine Soon” light illuminating on the instrument panel could be the first warning sign.  Unless your car doesn’t run at all, head to your auto repair shop and ask for a diagnostic test.  Your auto mechanic will plug a small computer underneath the dashboard to “read” what is happening under the hood.  Potential issues can be diagnosed while they are small problems before they turn into a major engine repair.  

If you’re wondering what can cause a “service engine soon” light to come on, there are few reasons. It could be an easy fix or something more serious is happening under the hood.

1. A Loose or Faulty Gas Cap – If the gas cap is loose, fuel vapors leak out and can throw the complete fuel system off, reducing gas mileage and increasing toxic emissions.  Replacing the gas cap may take care of the issue.
2. Faulty Oxygen Sensor – The oxygen sensor monitors the unburned oxygen from the exhaust, and how much fuel is burned.  If the sensor is faulty, it cannot provide the right data to the computer, thereby reducing gas mileage and increasing toxic emissions. 
3. Failing Catalytic Convertor – The catalytic convertor reduces exhaust gases by converting carbon monoxide and other harmful materials into harmless emissions. If it fails, your gas mileage decreases, and your car won’t accelerate when you step on the gas pedal. 
4. Mass Airflow Sensor is Faulty – The mass airflow sensor tells the car's computer to add the proper amount of fuel based on the air going through to the engine.  If it fails, toxic emissions will increase, the vehicle may also start to stall, and gas mileage will poor. 
5. Dirty Spark Plugs and Wires – The spark plug seals the combustion chamber and provides a gap for a spark to jump across and initiates combustion in your engine.  If they are going bad, they will misfire.  They simply want to be replaced.

Now, do you understand what is “key” to a well-running engine?  To put it simply—take care of all service items as recommended by the manufacturer, thus helping prevent a major and costly engine repair.  

If you want to know more about what can cause a “service engine soon” light to come on, consult our ASE Certified Technicians at Rum River Automotive about a needed engine repair and to make an appointment.  Since 1997, our auto repair shop has served vehicle owners in Princeton, MN, and in the surrounding areas of Milaca, MN, and Zimmerman, MN.  

What Are the Signs of a Bad Muffler?

Many drivers want to keep their vehicles running at the highest performance level potential.  This means that all car maintenance items should be kept up-to-date, including the muffler and exhaust system.  Today’s newer vehicles have a computer sensor that monitors fuel economy and overall performance, pinpointing an issue before it gets serious.  The exhaust system is most effective when it is operating quietly in the background.  Inappropriately, this means it is often “out of sight; out of mind” until an issue starts to develop.  

What are the signs of a bad muffler?  When mufflers become worn out, they are unable to effectively "muffler" the sound of the vehicle's exhaust.  Mufflers normally last 5 to 7 years, but they can become worn out prematurely due to some problems.  Here are 3 common issues that you will notice:

1. Noisy Muffler – A good exhaust system should keep your car running quietly and not sound like a roaring lion.
2. Decreased fuel mileage – If your fuel efficiency has decreased and you find yourself filling the tank more often than normal, have the exhaust system checked out.    
3. Obnoxious odor – Toxic emissions should be directed outside and away from your vehicle through the muffler.  If you smell exhaust fumes inside your car, there is a leak or some other issue that wants to be checked out. 

How does a muffler gets damaged, you wonder?  There are some causes of issues that could develop in exhaust systems, some of them unavoidable:

• Exposed to the salt used on icy and snowy roads, or the ocean.
• Driving too fast over speed bumps, low clearance potholes, or other objects in the road
• Excessive use or custom fabrication not recommended by the manufacturer.
• Condensation from the exhaust pipes rusting out the seams of the muffler so starts to leak exhaust gases and noise.

Do you want to know more about what are the signs of a bad muffler?  Consult our ASE Certified Technicians at Rum River Automotive for more information about mufflers and exhaust systems and to make an appointment.  Since 1997, our auto repair shop has served vehicle owners in Princeton, MN, and in the surrounding areas of Milaca, MN, and Zimmerman, MN.

Are Oil Changes Necessary?

Many Auto mechanics may hear this question from new and inexperienced drivers.  You don’t have to own a vehicle for very long to hear it said—oil changes are necessary if you want to keep your car running.  In addition to your trusted auto mechanic, the best way to find out what kind of oil to usage and the correct mileage interval recommended by the car manufacturer is to read the owner’s manual.

So why are oil changes necessary?  Because oil deteriorates and loses its efficiency, you may start to notice one or more of the warning signs below of a needed oil change:

1. Dirty Oil – Clean fresh oil is amber in color, but as it collects dirt and particles as it circulates through the engine, it will look dark and dirty.  
2. Noisy Engine – When the oil starts to break down, it loses its efficiency in lubricating the engine. You may start to hear knocking, rumbling, or even roaring coming from the engine.
3. Oil Change Warning Light – This little light indicates that the level of oil is too low. Even though you may get by for a little while by adding quart oil, it’s time for an oil change, especially if the oil has turned dark.  
4. Exhaust Smoke – Smoke coming from the muffler, could be an indication of oil leakage or that there are damaged or faulty parts in the engine. 
5. Smell of oil – If you smell oil while inside your car, it means there’s a leakage. If the smell is mixed with the smell of gas, your vehicle is overheating and oil is burning in the exhaust area.  If left unattended, serious damage could be taking place in the engine. 

Here are some of the benefits of keeping up with regular oil changes:

• Extends the life of your engine
• Optimizes your car’s performance
• Prevents excessive engine wear and tear
• Keeps engine parts lubricated
• Prevents engine overheating

Even though oil changes are relatively simple and cheap, a lot of car owners neglect this service, thinking they are saving money.  Though, the cost of engine repair is far greater than the cost of an oil change service. Many auto repair shops offer oil change coupons for their customers so be sure to take advantage of these savings.

If you’re still wondering why are oil changes necessary, consult our ASE Certified Technicians at Rum River Automotive about our oil change coupons and to make an appointment.  Since 1997, our auto repair shop has served vehicle owners in Princeton, MN, and in the surrounding areas of Milaca, MN, and Zimmerman, MN.  

How Many Miles Should You Get New Tires?

Purchasing a new set of tires for your vehicle is a big investment.  Thus, many drivers want to know about how many miles should you get new tires.  Most vehicle manufacturers state that the tires that come on their new vehicles will last around 50,000-60,000 miles.  Tire manufacturers also provide a mileage guideline for each of their tires so that vehicle owners will know what to expect out of their new tires.

Of course, there are some factors that will determine at about how many miles should you get new tires, such as:

• What kind of car you own and how you drive, 
• How you maintain your tires
• Quality of the tire
• All-purpose or all-season tire
• How the tire is mounted on the car. 
• Manufacturer’s stated length of tread life. 

Tire repair is quick, easy, and relatively cheap, and seemingly insignificant.  But tires that are in good condition are important for your driving safety.  Here are several maintenance tips to remember: 

• Inspect air pressure – A properly inflated tire will ensure optimal contact with the road, increase fuel economy, and help the tread wear more evenly. 
• Visual Checkup – Measure the amount of tread remaining, check tires for slashes, visible wires, or damage to the sidewall.
• Tire rotation – About every 6 months (or between 6,000 to 8,000 miles), rotate your tires around to a different position on the vehicle to make sure they wear in an even pattern.  
• Wheel Alignment – Wheel Alignment refers to an adjustment of the vehicle’s suspension so that the angles of the tires affect how they make contact with the road.  Misalignment wears out tires irregularly, decreasing the life of the tire and compromising the safety of your vehicle.
• Tire Balancing – Tire balancing will help achieve the smooth rolling of the tire. 

Tip for Drivers:  The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration recommends that tires be replaced every 6 years regardless of the number of miles driven. 

Are you wondering how many miles should you get new tires?  Call our ASE Certified Technicians at Rum River Automotive about our tire repair services and to make an appointment.  Our auto repair shop has served vehicle owners in Princeton, MN, and in the surrounding areas of Milaca, MN, and Zimmerman, MN.  

Why is my car air conditioning not working?

The weather is getting warmer and you may find yourself wondering, “Why is my car air conditioning not working?”  During the warm temperatures of summer, your AC unit will receive a lot of use.  Thus, it is vital that you take care of your car air conditioner so that you aren’t stranded on the road looking for car AC repair.

In addition to hoses and refrigerant charging ports, the AC system consists of 5 major parts:

• Compressor
• Condenser
• Receiver dryer 
• Expansion valve
• Evaporator

How does the air conditioner keep you cool?  As the refrigerant is compressed in the compressor, it turns into a hot gas which is cooled to a liquid state and travels to the expansion valve.  The Freon returns to a low-pressure gas as it passes through the expansion valve and is rapidly cooled in the evaporator.   A small fan blows over the evaporator, cooling the air that eventually blows out your car vents.

So why is my car air conditioning not working?  Here is a list of several typical issues:  

• The coolant has lost its efficiency due to exposure to the excessive heat of the engine, road debris, dirt, vibrations, quick stops, and even run-ins with curbs.
• The AC’s compressor can’t create a high enough pressure to correctly cool the refrigerant.  This could be caused by a block in the system, or cracks in the unit have developed cracks that allow the refrigerant to escape.
• The cooling fans could be burned out, poorly mounted, a fan blade is chipped, or there is a blown fuse or burnt-out relay.
• An electrical issue could be sending a faulty signal caused by a broken wire, bad module, or bad sensors.

If you have not already scheduled an auto AC service, make sure to do so before heading down the road on a hot summer day. The benefits include improved gas mileage, a more environmentally-friendly vehicle, and a more relaxed drive.

If you’re looking for quality car AC repair, Call our ASE Certified Technicians at Rum River Automotive for more information about why your car air conditioner may not be working and make an appointment.  Since 1997, our auto shop has served vehicle owners in Princeton, MN, and in the surrounding areas of Milaca, MN, and Zimmerman, MN.  

What Causes Car Alignment Problems?

When your vehicle comes brand-new from the manufacturer, it is good to know that the wheels have been aligned, tested, adjusted, and verified.  But, if you have owned that car for very long, you may be noticing that the wheels have lost their alignment.

What does misalignment mean, you ask?  It means that the tires on your car are not pointing in the similar direction as the steering wheel, affecting crucial steering and suspension parts. Not only does this shorten the life of your tires by many miles, but it also compromises the safety of your vehicle.

Are you wondering what causes car alignment problems?  Misaligned wheels are the result of worn or damaged suspension parts due mostly to poor road conditions.  If you are consistently driving on bumpy roads, hit potholes and speed bumps too fast, run over curbs, or are involved in an accident, your car alignment will be affected.  You will find yourself working hard to drive straight down the road without veering to one side or the other, trying to right the steering wheel!  

Drivers who are inexperienced may not realize how misalignment negatively affects their driving.  It impacts the safety of your vehicle, and adds extreme wear to your tires, suspension system, and steering system.  Remember that a wheel alignment service is much less costly than buying a new set of tires!

Here are several major benefits of maintaining the proper wheel alignment on your vehicle:

• Enhance the handling and safety of your car.
• Increase fuel efficiency,
• Prevent damage to other components (such as brakes and shocks), and 
• Extend the lifespan of your tires.  

Remember to have your wheel alignment inspected about every 6,000 miles.  Or sooner if you are noticing signs of premature tire and tread wear. 

Need to know more about what causes car alignment problems?  Call our ASE Certified Technicians at Rum River Automotive for more information about a car alignment service and to make an appointment.  Since 1997, our auto repair shop has served vehicle owners in Princeton, MN and in the surrounding areas of Milaca, MN and Zimmerman, MN.  

What Does a General Car Service Include?

Most people have started their spring cleaning.  Don’t forget your automobile to make sure it is ready for the warm temperatures on the way.  Ask your car repair technician about what does a general car service include? It is vital to have a thorough inspection performed on all the systems and components of your vehicle so that you are driving as safe as possible.  

So what does a general car service include?  In addition to regular vehicle maintenance items, listed below are 8 common car service items:

• Car Battery-- Warm weather means high temperatures under the hood, accelerating corrosion inside the battery as well as water evaporating out of the battery.  You could end up with decreased battery capacity which means a weakened ability to start the engine, and a shorter battery life. The battery connections should be kept clean, tight and corrosion-free. Get your battery tested before heading out on a warm summer day.  A tired battery may want to be charged, or simply replaced.
• Windshield and Wiper Blades--Wiper blades normally start to lose their effectiveness in as little as 6 months. If there is streaking areas of glass, they should be replaced.  
• Lights--Inspect that all the lights are working and clean so that you'll have optimum visibility at night and that other drivers can see you coming.
• Oil-- Normally, a multi-viscosity oil that has a "W" in the viscosity index can be used year round as it provides the best oil flow at either warm or cold temperatures.  If you frequently drive on dusty roads, change the oil and filter more frequently than normal.  Also, inspect the oil level frequently
• Radiator, Hoses and Belts--Have the radiator and hoses inspected for cracks, leaks, or contamination from oil or grease. The hoses should be firm yet pliable.  Ask your auto mechanic to inspect the coolant mixture in your radiator.  About every 2 years, flush your radiator and add new coolant.
• Tires--If you use snow or all-season tires, you may want to switch to summer tires which are made from a special rubber softer in consistency than snow or all-season tires. These tires will increase vehicle performance, but they are more costly and want to be replaced more frequently than other types of tires.  
• Keep your tires correctly inflated--Inspect inflation pressure every month.  Under-inflated tires generate more heat due to excessive sidewall flexing, adversely affecting handling and fuel economy, plus wearing out the tire faster.
• Brakes--If you feel any vibration, hear squealing, or the brake pedal feels “soft,” have your brakes checked and repaired as soon as possible for better stopping performance.

Need to find quality car repair?  Call our ASE Certified Technicians at Rum River Automotive for more information about what does a general car service include and to make an appointment.  Since 1997, our auto repair shop has served vehicle owners in Princeton, MN and in the surrounding areas of Milaca, MN, and Zimmerman, MN.  

How do you know if your brakes are going out?

If you’re wondering how do you know if your brakes are going out, more than likely you are starting to notice braking issues.  Because there is not a set schedule as to when to replace brakes, frequent inspections are a necessity.  As a conscientious vehicle owner, have your brakes checked at every tire rotation service, which is usually about every 6 months (or every other oil change service).  

How long your brakes last actually depends upon several factors, including:

• Driving conditions – Do you drive a lot of stop-and-go miles (such as in the city), or mountainous terrain with steep declines, or a straight and level highway?
• Vehicle weight – How many passengers do you usually carry in your car as well as how much extra cargo is loaded into the trunk?
• Brake materials – Do you use higher quality brake pads and rotors, or do you go with the cheapest you can find?
• Purpose of vehicle – Do you tow a trailer, boat or other recreational vehicle, or do you just drive to work and shopping?

So how do you know if brake repair is needed?  What you hear from your brakes will usually let you know if your brakes are going bad.  Listen for squeaking, squealing, or metal-on-metal grinding when you step on the brake pedal.  Some cars have built-in wear sensors that scrape against a brake disc when the pads needed replacing, or a dash warning light that illuminates when the brake pads reach the minimum thickness or the brake fluid is too low.  An easy brake repair to clean the brakes can eliminate some minor noises, but persistent, prominent noises typically mean parts are worn out.

Tip to Remember: A visual inspection by your auto mechanic is the best way to determine the amount of life left in your brakes, such as the thickness of the pads, and the condition of the rotors and calipers!.

Do you want to know how do you know if your brakes are going out? Call our ASE Certified Technicians at Rum River Automotive to make an appointment and to find out more about brake repair.  Since 1997, our auto repair shop has served vehicle owners in Princeton, MN and in the surrounding areas of Milaca, MN, and Zimmerman, MN.  

How Often Should You Replace a Car Battery?

Are you tired of trying to find the jumper cables all the time you want to start your car? How often should you replace a car battery?  This is a question that many car owners ask because they are worried about being stranded in a parking lot or on the side of a road.  A dead car battery is a frustrating inconvenience that can be avoided.  The best time to replace your battery is before it dies.

But how do you know how often should replace a car battery?  There are several signs that indicate it is time for a car battery replacement, such as:

• Slow engine crank
• Illuminated check engine light
• The Bloated, misshaped battery case
• Battery fluid leak

The typical lifespan of a car battery is between 3 to 5 years. Depending on the climate where you live and your driving habits, you may be looking at a car battery replacement before the end of 3 years.

• How does climate affect your battery?  The heat of summer can lead to the evaporation of water in the car’s battery acid, resulting in decreased performance, subpar starting power, and a shortened lifetime.  When the temperatures are chill, your battery wants to work harder to generate enough energy to keep your car running smoothly. Icy weather can also result in thicker engine oil, which puts an additional strain on your battery.
• How does your driving affect how long your battery will last?  If you consistently take short trips like daily drives to the office and the grocery store, your battery doesn’t have enough running time to recharge fully between stops. Also, if your car sits in the garage for extended periods of time, the battery continues to drain passively even when the engine isn’t on.

Even without any warning signs, a general rule of thumb is that you should replace your car battery about every 3 years.  

Are you wondering about how often should you replace a car battery?  Call our ASE Certified Technicians at Rum River Automotive for more information about a car battery replacement and to make an appointment.  Since 1997, our auto repair shop has served vehicle owners in Princeton, MN and in the surrounding areas of Milaca, MN, and Zimmerman, MN.  

How Do You Know If You Have a Bad Starter?

Just what is a starter, you ask?  The starter is a small motor, powered by the battery that starts your engine.  A starter relay sits between the battery and the starter motor, transmitting power. Without a correctly working starter relay and motor, you can’t even move your car an inch!

So how do you know if you have a bad starter?  

1. Something doesn’t sound “normal.”  One of the symptoms of a bad starter is a clicking noise when you turn the key or push the start button. Though, a starter can die without making any sound at all.
2. Lights only.  When trying to start the engine and only the dashboard lights come on, you possibly have an issue with the starter.
3. The engine doesn’t crank.  If your engine won’t start, even after a jumpstart, it’s time to call roadside assistance.  Remember this important note.  If a jump start won’t fire up your engine, nothing other than a certified technician can!
4. Smoke coming from your car.  As part of your vehicle’s electrical system, the starter is subject to blown fuses and short circuits. When you’ve been trying to start your car some times, the starter can overheat making electrical problems—and the accompanying smoke—more likely.  Call for help!
5. Oil has soaked the starter.  Pop the hood and look at your starter.  If it’s drenched in oil, you have an oil leak.  This can be a costly problem so keep an eye out for oil leaks to avoid starter problems.

So what causes starter issues?  There are some reasons, including:

• Loose wiring to and from the starter
• Dirty connections
• Battery corrosion
• worn-out parts in the starter system
• Oil leaks

Doesn’t delay to get strand somewhere before having your starting system checked out—even if your issues are off and on?

Need to know more about how do you know if you have a bad starter?  Call our ASE Certified Technicians at Rum River Automotive for more information about starters, alternators and to make an appointment.  Since 1997, our auto shop has served vehicle owners in Princeton, MN and in the surrounding areas of Milaca, MN, and Zimmerman, MN.  

Wondering what is Included in a Major Car Service?

Most car owners have procrastinated at some point in time in taking care of required maintenance service or needed car repair because of their busy schedules or tight budget.  They think that by extending a required service interval they are saving money.  Or, as long as their car can get them from point A to point B, they put off a needed car repair.  Though, they may actually spend more money on an emergency car repair than the cost of the maintenance service.

Taking your car to an auto repair shop for an inspection is just like us humans going to the doctor for an annual checkup.  We want to make sure that all in our bodies are running smoothly, and the same goes for our car!  The reason that vehicle manufacturers publish a service schedule is to make sure that the car operates reliably and safely for many miles.  Not only will regular car service prevent costly car repair, but it is also crucial for keeping your car safe and roadworthy, protecting yourself and other drivers.  

The best place to find out what type of service your car requires is your car owner’s manual.  It lists the mileage or time interval for every service, as well as the relevant details of each service.  There are usually 3 levels of car service:

• What is included in a Basic Service?  This basic service usually includes an oil and filter change and a visual checkup of the components of your vehicle.  Fluids (such as washer fluid, brake fluid, antifreeze, and steering fluid) will usually be topped-off.  Also, your auto mechanic should check key components (over 35 of them) of your car to ensure itis in the best condition potential.  This will include brakes, tires, etc., and also recommend any additional work needed.
• What is included in a Full Service?  This Full service usually consists of all the basic service work listed above plus an extra 15-30 additional inspect on the car’s components (compared to the basic service).
• What is included in a Major Car Service?  This major service includes all covered in the basic and full service.  A major car service is the most complete service available.  It also includes all wear, service and maintenance items recommended by the manufacturer.

The cost of major car service will vary depending on your type of car. Please ask your auto repair mechanic to provide you with a cost estimation before beginning any work.

Are you wondering what is included in a major car service?  Call our ASE Certified Technicians at Rum River Automotive for more information about our car repair services and to make an appointment.  Since 1997, our auto repair shop has served vehicle owners in Princeton, MN and in the surrounding areas of Milaca, MN, and Zimmerman, MN.  

When should shocks and struts be replaced?

Are you having issues with your car suspension and wonder when should shocks and struts be replaced?  The components of the steering and suspension systems work together to keep your ride smooth and safe.  But these components do wear out over time as the miles add up.   Just like most of the other automobile parts and systems, shocks and struts have a specific maintenance schedule.  

So when should shocks and struts be replaced?  The lifetime of shocks and struts will depend a great deal on how and where you drive. If you consistently travel over bumpy streets and adverse road conditions, then they will want to be replaced more often than if you drive just short distances daily. Because of these factors, the range of when shocks and struts need to be replaced is between every 50,000 to 100,000 miles.  

So what are the signs of a bad car suspension?

• Poor steering response.
• When turning lanes, you feel the car sway to one side or the other.
• Your vehicle bounces excessively when driving.
• Braking performance is unbalanced.
• Vehicle nose “dives” when braking.
• Tire "Cupping" as the rubber wears off the tire all the time it hits the ground.
• Hydraulic fluid is leaking from inside the shock.

If you notice that there’s something not quite right about how your vehicle handles on the road, have the car suspension checked out.  When it fails, the impact can be risky.  If you want to improve your stopping ability, increase the safety of your vehicle, and increase the control of your vehicle, it may be time to have the shocks and struts replaced.  

Are you wondering when should shocks and struts be replaced?  Call our ASE Certified Technicians at Rum River Automotive for more information about car suspension problems and to make an appointment.  Since 1997, our auto shop has served vehicle owners in Princeton, MN and in the surrounding areas of Milaca, MN, and Zimmerman, MN.