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.  

Are you Asking, “What Happens When a Starter Goes Out?”

What do you hear when you turn your key in the ignition?  Does your engine start-up smoothly and quietly?  Or do you just hear clicking sounds?  At last, the engine turns over and you’re on your way.  If this has happened to you, you will need to know more about what happens when a starter goes out.  Ask your mechanic to inspect the condition of the starter and let you know if you are looking at a pending auto electrical repair. 

The starter system is designed for repeated use under a variety of weather and road conditions. But the wear and tear of everyday use, extreme conditions and lack of maintenance can all create issues.  There are some symptoms that can indicate a bad or failing starter—many of which can also be caused by the alternator or the battery, key components of the auto electrical system. 

What happens when a starter goes out?  Here are six signs to look for:

1. Slow and intermittent starting.  If the issue is intermittent, it could be loose or dirty wiring or a damaged electrical component that is failing.
2. Your vehicle won’t start.  When you turn the key, you may hear no sound at all or you may hear a clicking or clanking noise.
3. The interior lights dim.  This could be a sign of a short circuit in the starter motor’s internal wiring.  If you notice a chugging sound along with the darkening lights, the bearings in the motor may be failing.
4. You hear grinding noise when the car is starting or running.  This is an indication of a mechanical issue---the gears in the starter motor may be worn or not engaging properly; they may not be disengaging after the engine starts.
5. A burning smell. The starter system is both electrical and mechanical.  Thus, a malfunction often combines electrical issues with overheated metal components, lubricated with grease, giving off a burning smell.
6. The starter is soaked with oil. The starter system sits near the bottom of the engine and gets very burning.  If motor oil leaks into the starter motor, it may cause permanent damage. 

Need to know more about what happens when a starter goes out?  Call our ASE Certified Technicians at Rum River Automotive for more information about auto electrical repair and to make an appointment and to find out more about signs of car starter going bad.  Since 1997, our auto repair shop has served car owners in Princeton, MN and in the surrounding areas of Milaca, MN, and Zimmerman, MN.  

How do I know if my car battery is dying?

Are you noticing issues when you start up your car in the mornings?  How about when driving at night and your headlights are too blurry? You may be wondering, “How do I know if my car battery is dying?”  When a battery fails it’s a serious issue that wants instant attention, and commonly not at a convenient time or place.  Ask your mechanic to inspect your battery to see if it’s time for a car battery replacement.

If you’ve had to pay for a premature car battery replacement and want to keep it as long as possible, here are six simple tips to help extend its lifespan. 

1. Combine trips – Consider joining a carpool. 
2. Keep the battery tightly fastened – A loose battery can jiggle connections and cause intermittent electrical connections. 
3. Turn off the lights – When you arrive at your destination, be sure to turn off all lights and unplug electrical devices that use power, such as a cell phone.
4. Keep the battery terminals clean.  Corrosion inhibits the electrical current that flows from the battery to the engine and other electrical accessories. 
5. Check-up – Have the charge in your battery tested on a regular basis and top-off the cells with water if necessary.
6. Limit electronic use when idle – This causes a heavy pull of electrical current from the battery and the alternator may not be able to keep up recharging the battery.

Are you asking, “How do I know if my car battery is dying?”  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 car owners in Princeton, MN and in the surrounding areas of Milaca, MN, and Zimmerman, MN.  

Auto Electrical Repair: The Alternators Effect!

The alternators is an essential part to ensuring that your car runs correctly. It keeps the battery charged via the alternators belt. This is why it is so important to check the alternator and belts first thing when you are trying to diagnose a problem or perform a potential auto electrical repair.

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To determine whether or not you will need to proceed with auto electrical repair, your mechanic will run a test on the alternators. This diagnostic test is performed with the motor running to make sure the belts are spinning properly. If they are not spinning there is a chance that the belt has snapped.

The next thing your mechanic will do to diagnose the problem is check the voltage that is coming from the right source. If things are working like they should, the meter should read something around 14 V. If it reads higher than 14 or 15 Volts, chances are that it is time for a needed auto electrical repair.

By performing these tests first, your mechanic can rule out other problems and ensure that the right components are being repaired or replaced. You do not want to spend money unnecessarily guessing what is wrong.

Is your alternators acting up? Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Rum River Automotive for more information about auto electrical repair and to schedule an appointment. Since 1997, Rum River has served vehicle owners in Princeton, MN and in the surrounding areas of Milaca and Zimmerman, MN.

Brake Service Tips for Safe Driving!

The ability to stop your vehicle's momentum and power while driving is crucial to safe driving. If you can't quickly and efficiently stop your vehicle, you run the risk of getting into an accident. Maintaining your car's braking system at least once a year will prevent accidents and prevent costly brake repair as well. Most brake service experts would agree that you should have the brakes serviced at least once a year.

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Here are some of the signs that brake repair may be needed on your car:

• Screeching, grinding, or whistling noises when the brakes are used.
• The car pulls to one side when using the brakes.
• You have to apply extreme force onto the pedal before the brakes will engage.
• The brakes vibrate or pulse when in use, even in normal braking situations.
• You have to push the brake almost to the floor before the brakes will function.

Some cars now have a metal piece in the brakes that will chirp upon brake application when the pads are getting low. Many cars even have an indicator light that will tell you when it's time for brake service.

Neglecting brake repair can lead to more than just a minor annoyance when they start to squeal. It can lead to not having any brakes at all, potentially causing a serious accident on the road.

Need quality tire repair? Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Rum River Automotive for more information about tire service and to schedule an appointment. Rum River also offers quality auto repair and auto detailing services. Since 1997, our auto shop has served vehicle owners in Princeton, MN and in the surrounding areas of Milaca and Zimmerman, MN.

When Should I Get New Tires?

It’s inevitable that all tires, over time, get old and worn out. It can be puzzling in trying to determine when it’s time to purchase new tires. Many drivers want to wait as long as possible before putting out the expense.

Other than a tire specialist’s opinion, there are several visual signs indicating that new tires are necessary.

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Five Visual Symptoms to watch for:

1. Tire tread depth less than 1/16th of an inch – If you regularly drive on wet or slick pavement, more than this is better and safer. If there is less than 1/16th of an inch depth remaining, take your car into a tire service center and ask about purchasing new tires.
2. Newer tires have tread wear indicator bars. These bars gradually begin to appear as the tread wears down. They appear as flat rubber bars running perpendicular to the direction of the tread itself. If more than one or two of these are visible, the tread is getting low and it’s time to have your tires checked.
3. Tracks or cuts in the sidewall - Do a visual check of the sidewalls or your tires looking for grooves or cracks. This could be a sign that your tire is developing an air leak (or worse, ready to blow out). If the cracks in the sidewall are starting to look serious, have them checked. You may need new tires.
4. Bulge or blister on the outer surface of the tire – If you see these, it means the tire is beginning to weaken. This weak spot can cause a sudden blow out, and cause you to lose control of the car. So keep a close watch on any tire bulges and blisters that are apparent.
5. Extensive vibration while driving - There can be any of a number of causes for the vibration, but it could indicate an internal problem in a tire. Even if the tire isn't the root cause of the vibration, the vibration could damage the tire and wear it prematurely. If this is the case, have your tires checked.

Be sure to take care of your tires before something goes wrong! A tire failure while you're driving can be catastrophic-- causing your car to go out of control or leaving you stranded in the middle of nowhere.

Need a set of high-quality tires for safe summer driving? Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Rum River Automotive by calling (763) 389-3811, or go on-line at http://www.rumriverauto.com for more information. Rum River offers quality auto repair and detailing services. Since 1997, our auto shop has served vehicle owners in Princeton, MN and in the surrounding areas of Milaca and Zimmerman, MN.

Alternators: Related to Auto Electrical Repair?

A reliable vehicle depends upon the starting and charging systems to work together in harmony. These two systems should be checked regularly by an auto electrical repair mechanic so you don't find yourself stranded with a car that won't run due to a failing alternator and a dead battery.

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Take a moment to familiarize yourself with the purpose of alternators, starters and batteries below. The next time your mechanic says your vehicle is due for auto electrical repair, you will understand what it means.

• Alternators: formerly called electric generators, are mainly used for recharging batteries. An alternator converts mechanical energy to electrical energy which in turn produces an alternating current.
• Batteries: store electrical energy, used to power the electrical loads (power accessories) of vehicles.
• Starters: convert the energy stored in the battery into mechanical force that turns the engine when starting.

The primary function of alternators is to replace the electric current that the starter used up to start your car.  It also supports the electrical loads for the accessories.  Simply stated, alternators, starters, and batteries should work together in harmony to ensure a car that starts every time!

Have questions about starters and alternators? Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Rum River Automotive by calling (763) 389-3811, or go on-line at http://www.rumriverauto.com for more information about auto electrical repair issues. Since 1997, our auto repair shop has served vehicle owners in Princeton, MN and in the surrounding areas of Milaca and Zimmerman, MN..

Car Tune-up Checklist.

When you take your vehicle to an auto shop for a tune-up, you are essentially asking technicians to inspect your engine, analyze vehicle performance, and make adjustments as needed. The engine tune up checklist should include both preventative and restorative engine assessment, and final maintenance recommendations. These will vary from vehicle to vehicle based on age, mileage and unique manufacturer recommendations.

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To give you a better idea of what happens during a car tune up, here is a basic tune up checklist:

1. Check visual appearance of spark plugs.  Are they worn? What color are the insulator firing noses? An engine in good condition should have spark plugs with light tan or gray insulator firing noses. Any other color could be the sign of an engine problem.

2. Test the performance of spark plugs. What color is the spark? Is the spark properly igniting the fuel?

3. Check spark plug wires to make sure they are not hard or cracked.

4. Check the fuel filter to make sure it isn't clogged or dirty.

5. Check the engine's fuel pump for proper function.

6. Inspect the engine's fuel injectors to make sure dirt or other deposits are not restricting the amount of fuel that can be delivered to the engine.

7. Make sure fuel injector buildup isn't affecting how the spark plugs fire.

8. Adjust the engine timing and idle if necessary.

9. Check that the PCV valve isn't clogged or leaking.

10. Inspect the vehicle's points and condenser.

Since the age of the vehicle, number of miles, and maintenance history all uniquely affect a vehicle's service needs, it's important to remember that there is not a one-size-fits-all tune up procedure. Remember that some vehicles will require analysis of more engine components than those listed above.

To learn more about the tune up procedure that's right for your vehicle, contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Rum River Automotive 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 vehicle owners in Princeton, MN and in the surrounding areas of Milaca andZimmerman, MN.

4 Safety Tips for Winter Driving from an Auto Center.

With winter at our doorstep, you may be planning to head out and visit family and friends for the holiday season. You will certainly want a reliable vehicle! Ask your auto shop to perform a standard inspection to prevent a roadside emergency and sabotaging your arrival at your holiday destination. Don't get stranded in a strange town looking for an auto shop for an emergency repair.

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These four tips from an auto shop will help you stay safe during your holiday travels:

1. Adhere to the schedule of maintenance services: Check all the fluids, and change or top-off as necessary. (i.e, oil, brake and transmission). High quality filters will make for a smoother ride. Be sure to have the brake system inspected, which includes the condition of the rotors, pads and calipers. Make sure all the exterior lights (headlights, brakes, back-up lights, blinkers, and fog lights) are all working properly. You want to see and be seen on a dark winter's night! Finally, check your wiper blades and replace them as necessary.

2. Clean out your car: For a more comfortable trip, clean out the interior of your car before you head off to grandma's house. All-weather floor mats will help protect your carpets and are easy to clean or replace. Clean your windows so there is nothing obstructing your view. Remove unnecessary items from the trunk and backseat to increase your vehicle's fuel efficiency, as well as make room for all your holiday food and gifts!

3. Check the tires: To avoid an unexpected flat tire, make sure all your tires have the proper air pressure. Inspect them for abnormal wear. If necessary, have a tire rotation, or if the tread is too shallow, you may need to purchase new tires. Remember to check the spare too.

4. Inspect the Radiator: Make sure the ratio of anti-freeze is adequate, and the hoses checked for cracks or bulges. This is especially important when driving in cold, freezing temperatures.

If you take care of these routine maintenance services, not only will your gas mileage and driving performance increase significantly, it will help you have a trouble-free holiday road trip. Don't spend your holiday in an auto shop!

Our staff here at Rum River Automotive would like to thank all of our customers for allowing our auto shop to take care of your vehicle throughout the year. As you head down the road to spend the holidays with friends and family, we wish you a safe and happy holiday season filled with family, friends and joy.

Need a dependable auto center for standard vehicle maintenance? Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Rum River Automotive by calling (763) 389-3811, or go on-line at http://www.rumriverauto.com for more information. Rum River offers quality auto repair and detailing services. Since 1997, our auto shop has served vehicle owners in Princeton, MN and in the surrounding areas of Milaca and Zimmerman, MN

Auto Electrical Repair: How to Diagnose Problems!

Accurate auto electrical diagnosis is one of the most difficult challenges when working on today's automobiles. Considering the large number of systems in a vehicle that uses electricity in order to operate, it is critical to be able to quickly diagnose problems to perform the correct auto electrical repair. Whether you are having problems with an engine control issue, an automatic ride height system, or a power window issue, or starters and alternators, the electrical systems all utilize the same principles.

Because auto electrical problems are so difficult to diagnose, you can help your mechanic determine where to look first for problems. The appropriate auto electrical repair can then be taken care of to get you back on the road again.

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• Verify the problem --

This is more challenging than it sounds. Sometimes duplicating the auto electrical problem can be the most challenging aspect of the diagnosis, especially if it occurs only intermittently. Collecting as much information about exactly when the problem occurs will help your technician, to duplicate and confirm a problem.

Useful information for the auto electrical repair technician includes:

• How often does the problem occur?
• How long after the vehicle is started does the problem occur?
• Does the problem occur only over bumps or when turning corners?
• Does weather and temperature have any effect on the problem?
• Does the car have to be idling, driving, in reverse, moving forward, be in gear, etc.?

Try to be as exact as possible in collecting information.

• Determine related symptoms --

This serves to help you isolate which circuit, or which part of the circuit, has the problem that needs to be repaired. By identifying related symptoms you can often eliminate unnecessary diagnostic procedures. Knowing an approximate area where the problem is gives your technician a definite direction in diagnostic testing.

Need help with auto electrical repair issues? Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Rum River Automotive by calling (763) 389-3811, or go on-line at http://www.rumriverauto.com for professional advice about starters and alternators. Since 1997, our auto repair shop has served vehicle owners in Princeton, MN and in the surrounding areas of Milaca and Zimmerman, MN.

Vehicle Maintenance: It Doesn’t Pay To Ignore It!

Unless you are experiencing noticeable problems with your brakes or steering, it is tempting to ignore basic vehicle maintenance, thinking you are saving yourself money. You will probably spend more in the long run with unexpected auto repairs. You can't afford to wait for something to go wrong before you tend to car maintenance items.

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Save yourself some dollars (as well as frustration and stress) by taking care of any car issues before you start experiencing problems.

Here are five vehicle maintenance tips that every driver should take note of:

Check Your Oil – Potential problems ranging from oil contamination to full-on engine seizure could result from worn-out seals in the engine, thereby allowing oil to seep out. Make it a habit to check the dipstick several times between oil changes. If the oil level is consistently lower than it should be, report the problem to your mechanic before the "change oil" light comes on. Don't just "top it off" with an extra quart and hope for the best.

Check Your Tires -- Your tires pay a large role in your vehicle's ability to stop and turn effectively. Every 1,000 miles or so, check the tire pressure. Invest in a tire pressure gauge and a couple of minutes of your time. This could mean the difference between stopping quickly, or slamming into the car ahead of you! You will get better mileage too. To promote uniform tread-wear, have your tires rotated regularly. If the tread dwindles down to the wear bars, it's time to purchase a new set of tires.

Check Your Brakes -- Brakes work together with tires to ensure safe stopping distances. Every time your vehicle is in the shop, ask your mechanic to check your braking system. It shouldn't cost you anything, unless there is a problem that needs to be corrected. Be on the look-out for signs of brake failure, such as squealing noises, pedal softness, or vibration.

Check the Transmission – Don't let transmission problems take control of your vacation by stranding you in a strange town looking for a transmission repair. Because most mechanics do not road-test transmissions (except as part of a major vehicle maintenance service), it's up to you to report any signs of problems.

Perform All Recommended Services – Even though scheduled car maintenance can sometimes cost more than you would like, it will prolong the life of all the systems and parts that make your car function safely.

Remember: Regular vehicle maintenance will save you dollars, and give you confidence behind the wheel!

Whether you are just heading out for the day, or planning an extended road trip, contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Rum River Automotive 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 vehicle owners in Princeton, MN, and in the surrounding areas of Milaca and Zimmerman, MN.

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.

Need expert auto electrical service? Contact our ASE Certified Technicians today by calling (763) 389-3811, or go on-line at http://www.rumriverauto.com/ for more information on starters and alternators. Since 1997, our auto repair shop has served customers in Princeton, MN, and in the surrounding areas of Milaca and Zimmerman, MN.