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 is the importance of car maintenance for winter driving?

Winter’s cold temperatures are knocking at the door!  An important part of getting ready for winter is scheduling preventative vehicle maintenance service.  Ask your auto repair technician to perform a thorough checkup of all the systems of your vehicle and of course, be sure to have any compulsory repairs taken care of as soon as possible.  This will ensure that you can drive your vehicle with peace of mind when heading out on icy and snowy roads.

If you have not yet done so, now is the time to take care of these simple vehicle maintenance items so that you are driving as safe as possible:

• Battery--Cold temperatures reduce a battery’s cranking power.  Cranking power at 0° F is only about half of that at 80° F.  If your battery is worn out, it’s time to replace it!
• Wiper Blades--Even the best-performing wiper blades start to lose their effectiveness in as little as 6 months. Streaks expanses of glass are sure signs that the blades should be replaced.  
• Windows--Make sure your windows are clear before heading out.  You're a risk to yourself and everyone around if you can’t see.  Use an ice scraper, not the wipers, to remove ice from the windshield. If you park outside, place the wipers in the raised position to keep them from freezing to the windshield.  Keep your windshield-washer reservoir filled with a washer solution that contains an antifreeze agent.  Also, make sure the heater is functioning correctly so that plenty of warm air is being directed to the windshield in the defrost mode.
• Lights--Inspect that all the vehicle's lights are working correctly and that the lenses are clean so that you'll have optimum visibility at night and other drivers can see you.
• Oil--Oil thickens when cold, making it harder for the engine to turn over. Normally, you should be using multi-viscosity oil that has a "W" in the viscosity index, providing good oil flow at low temperatures.
• Radiator, Hoses, and Belts--Have the radiator and heater hoses inspected for cracks, leaks, or contamination from oil. The hoses should be firm yet pliable.  Try to keep your coolant mixture in a 50/50 ratio of antifreeze and water to keep it from freezing until temperatures are well below zero.  Ask your mechanic for the correct mixture for your climate.
• New Tires--Your safety depends on tire traction.  If your area gets occasional snow, a new set of all-season tires rated to perform well in snow and ice tests should be fine.  If you live where snow and ice are continually present, consider buying winter tires which are made from special rubber compounds and tread patterns to grip snow and ice for optimum traction.  Keep your tires correctly inflated, as tire pressure declines with the thermometer.
• Brakes--Make sure your brakes are working correctly to meet the challenges of wet and icy roads.  If you feel any vibration, hear screeching, or the brake pedal feels “soft,” have your brakes checked and repaired as soon as possible.
• Emergency kit--Even if going a short distance, carry a supply of water, snacks, jumper cables, flashlight, road flares, first aid kit, blanket, and cell phone and charger.

Are you looking for a quality vehicle maintenance service?  Call our ASE Certified Technicians at Rum River Automotive for more information about the importance of car maintenance 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.  

Wondering How Often Should You Do Car Maintenance?

Do you want to know how often should you do car maintenance and why?  Many vehicle owners don’t understand why following a schedule for vehicle maintenance is so vital.  As long as their car gets them from point A to point B, they think all is fine.    

Adhering to the preventative vehicle maintenance schedule makes sure your vehicle keeps operating smoothly and efficiently!  Always refer to your owner's manual or your auto mechanic for the specific service intervals required for your vehicle.  

So how often should you do car maintenance?  Here is a common guideline provided by vehicle manufacturers:

• Every 3,000--7,000 Miles.  Change the oil and filter according to your service manual.  At each oil change, have the transmission fluid, coolant, power steering fluid, windshield washer fluid and wipers, tires and all exterior lights inspected.
• Every 15,000--30,000 Miles.  Replace the air filter every 15,000 miles. Every 20,000 miles check the battery and coolant. Replace the fuel filter every 25,000 miles. Every 30,000 miles, replace the power steering fluid and air filter. Check the coolant, radiator hoses, HVAC system, brake pads, and suspension components.
• Every 35,000--50,000 Miles.  Inspect the battery and replace it if it is not holding a charge or if it 3 to 4 years old. Every 40,000 miles replace the spark plugs and plug wires and check the ignition system and suspension.
• Every 60,000 Miles.  Replace brake pads and fluid, coolant, radiator hoses, power steering fluid, and timing belt. Check the HVAC, suspension components and tires.  Have the engine, transmission, cooling, brakes and suspension components thoroughly checked. 

Tip to Remember:  Keep a vehicle maintenance log.  Maintaining the maintenance schedule can optimize the resale value of your car, help prevent costly repairs, avert potential roadside breakdowns, and increase the driving safety of your vehicle. 

Need to how often should you do car maintenance?  Call our ASE Certified Technicians at Rum River Automotive for more information about the suggested vehicle 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 Car Maintenance Needs To Be Done?

There is still plenty of winter weather to come so remember it’s vital to make sure your car can continue to meet the challenge of hazardous winter driving!  Preventative vehicle maintenance is vital in any season, but knowing what car maintenance needs to be done for winter should take top priority.  Ask your mechanic about the items that should be on the winter vehicle maintenance checklist to help prevent an emergency on the road.

What car maintenance needs to be done to finish out winter in safety?  

1. Use winter wipers – These wipers are equipped with rubber that keeps ice from collecting on them.  Replace them when spring arrives as they are heavier than regular wipers.
2. Winter/snow tires – These tires use special compounds engineered to resist hardening in cold temperatures, thus providing better traction.  Inspect the tread and air pressure commonly.  Keep chains in the trunk and know how to install them.
3. Keep washer fluid reservoir full – You will be using a lot of windshield washer fluid when driving in snow and ice.  Keep a spare bottle in the trunk.
4. Winter safety kit – Include an ice scraper, bag of sand, shovel, flares, extra antifreeze, flashlight and batteries, tool kit, including jumper cables, and lug wrench and jacks for changing a tire, blankets and extra warm clothing and boots, plus non-perishable food and water.  Don’t forget a charger for your cell phone.
5. Recommended vehicle maintenance – Have that needed oil change, a new battery, radiator inspection, and make sure you have the correct antifreeze to water ratio.  Inspect all belts and hoses, spark plugs, wires, and cables.
6. Fill up the tank – A full fuel tank can help prevent gas line freeze ups. If you get stranded, your engine may be the only thing to keep you warm until help arrives.
7. Keep rear-window defroster in working order – Being unable to see behind you could create unsafe driving conditions. 

A Word to the Wise:  It’s true that something can happen any time of year, but it is especially hazardous in winter!  If the roads are too dangerous, stay home if at all potential.  Don't risk an accident!

Need to know more about the winter vehicle maintenance checklist?  Call our ASE Certified Technicians at Rum River Automotive about what car maintenance needs to be done for winter driving 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.  

Brake Service: What Leads to Brake Repair?

Many drivers may not really think about their brakes as these aren’t one of the most luxurious parts of your car – but they are one of the most important. Pay attention to your car and the signs that indicate you need brake service which can mean the difference between enjoying a peaceful drive and having a horrible car accident.

If you are looking for Brake Service Princeton MN than find our dedicated Car Maintenance Princeton MN Services shop. Also find Car Battery Princeton MN to have safe driving.

There are obvious signs that you might need brake repair, such as the brake light flashing in the car’s dashboard, or when you realize it’s taking longer than usual to come to a stop. If you're noticing these signs, and possibly a few others, schedule a brake service as soon as possible.

Here are four signs that your brakes may be failing, even if the brake light doesn’t come on:

1. Brake Pads - Over time, your brake pads begin to wear thin and become less effective at stopping the car. Check the thickness of the brake pads every once in a while. The should be at least a quarter of an inch thick.

2. High-pitched Squeal - There is a sound your brakes will start making when you need to replace them. It is a sound that is loud enough to be heard even when the windows are up but may not overpower a loud stereo sound system, so be sure to turn the stereo down once in a while to listen.

3. Rapid Braking - If you have anti-lock brakes you know how quickly they will grab. When you experience this rapid type of braking under normal conditions, it’s time to schedule a good brake service.

4. A Mushy Pedal - Another sign of problems is when your brake pedal goes mushy. When the pedal practically hits the floor before you start to brake then you could have a problem with the pads or other parts of the braking system. You should see a brake repair specialist immediately.

Looking for quality brake repair? Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Rum River Automotive for more information about brake 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.

Don't Forget A Needed Engine Repair Before You Leave Home!

The engine in your car is more likely to have problems in the summer.  You could find yourself in bad shape if you go on a trip without having the engine checked. You can usually have small engine repair jobs done fairly quickly, and hopefully you won't find yourself in some strange place looking for an engine rebuild just to get home. The story sounds like it is out of the movies, but it could happen to you if you are not careful.

If you are looking for Engine Rebuild Princeton MN than find our dedicated Car Maintenance Princeton MN shop. Meet our expert Car Shocks Princeton MN for engine rebuilds service.

Your engine repair technician can inform you of the the most basic things that are going on with the engine. You will learn if there is anything that needs to be done to the engine today, and you can leave for your trip knowing that the engine is in better condition.

You might need to take care of an engine rebuild before you leave home, and now is the time to learn that you need to do these things. Getting the car serviced today prevents problems in the future, and it will help prevent any further damage to the engine, making it worse than it is today. Not only are you investing in preventing a nightmare scenario on your trip, but you are also investing in the life of your car. Cars last longer when they are serviced correctly, and you will get tens of thousands more miles out of the engine.

You might not have planned to get the engine serviced before you left home, but it is the only wise thing to do. You don't want to be stuck somewhere far from home with a broken car, paying higher prices than normal, and waiting for parts. Although most mechanics are trustworthy, don't get left relying on one who does not know you or your vehicle!

Worried about a potential engine rebuild? Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Rum River Automotive for more information about engine repair 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 andZimmerman,MN.

Quality Oil Changes Pay Big Dividends!

Everyone is looking for a return on their investment. As a vehicle owner, your vehicle is one of the biggest purchases you may make (outside of your residence).  Some people try to skimp on oil changes, believing they are saving money. They think that because they aren't having any car problems they don't need to pay the price for high-quality oil changes.

If you are looking for Oil Changes Princeton MN Replacement than find Rum River Auto caring with best Car Maintenance Princeton MN services. Also find Air Conditioner Repair Princeton MN to have safe driving.

The truth is, it is possible for problems to exist before any symptoms are noticeable. Using inferior oil can cause damage that may not be noticed until later down the road, costing more in the long run with engine problems.

A big pay-off for quality oil changes is that your auto mechanic can check out the other systems of your car for any pending problems at the same time.

Why use high quality oil?

Inferior motor oils can deposit harmful contaminants into the engine's lubricating system. Even before there are any visible symptoms of problems, damage may have already occurred, and the engine's performance level may not be brought back to normal. For maximum engine protection, it's worth the extra cost for a high quality, warranty-backed oil change. Regular oil changes ensure better lubrication for the protection and longevity of your engine.

Good-quality motor oil keeps contaminants separated and held in suspension. Poor quality oils can contribute to sludge build-up formed by a combination of dirt, soot, partially burned fuel, oxidized motor oil, leaked coolant and condensed water vapor produced during combustion. Regular oil changes will drain these contaminants out with the oil, rather than left behind to create sludge.

A Rule of Thumb: Your vehicle should have an oil change service about every 3,000 miles, or every three months. If in doubt, check your owner's manual or ask your auto mechanic for guidance on oil changes and other maintenance issues.

Looking for quality oil changes at affordable prices? 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 and to find our oil change coupons. Since 1997, our auto repair shop has served vehicle owners in Princeton, MN and in the surrounding areas of Milaca and Zimmerman, MN.

Heating Repair Needed? Find Quality Air Conditioner Service!

Winter was tough! During the frigid temperatures of winter, your A/C/heating unit received a lot of use. It may be time for a heating repair to get your cooling system in order before getting into the hot days of summer. Heating repair may simply mean that you need to add fresh coolant to the radiator. Prevent an urgent air conditioner service later down the road as the temperatures soar

If you are looking for Air Conditioner Service Princeton MN service than find our Car Maintenance Princeton MN. Also meet our Chassis Princeton MN mechanic for your vehicle’s safety.

Because heating repair may be expensive, drivers often want to put off a needed air conditioner service as long as possible. With the introduction of computerized parts, today's A/C system has become more complex. Also, studies have proven the damaging effect of refrigerant to the ozone layer, and its production and use has been limited by law. Because of the environmental regulations governing air conditioning service, auto mechanics are required to be certified and auto shops must use specialized equipment to ensure that harmful chemicals are contained.

Basic knowledge of the A/C system is important. Take a look at the following descriptions of each component:

• Compressor – Compresses and transfers refrigerant gas by a belt-driven pump fastened to the engine.
• Condenser – Designed to radiate heat and is usually located in front of the radiator. Hot compressed gases are cooled, condensed, and then become a high pressure liquid as it exits the bottom of the condenser.
• Evaporator – the heat absorption component which removes the heat and humidity from the inside of your vehicle.
• Pressure Regulator – Designed to sense the temperature and pressure, and regulate the refrigerant flow to the evaporator.
• Metering Device –The primary function is to keep the gas and liquid separate, as well as remove moisture and debris.

We recommend an air conditioning service heating repair to make sure that all the parts of your A/C system are working properly. 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 heating repair. Since 1997, our auto shop has served customers in Princeton, MN, and in the surrounding areas of Milaca and Zimmerman, MN.

Vehicle Maintenance Is Your Vehicle Safe to Drive?

As school started a few months ago, five crucial driving rules for the safety of your teenage driver were discussed. There is another important step to make sure your teen is safe behind the wheel. Because an inexperienced teen driver may not recognize signs of car maintenance issues, it is vital that all recommended vehicle maintenance be performed at the appropriate intervals.

If you are looking for quality Car Maintenance Princeton MN than find our dedicated Auto Center Princeton MN shop.Also meet our Wheel Alignment Princeton MN mechanic for your vehicle’s safety.

Basic vehicle maintenance includes the following items:

• Keep spark plugs and wires clean.  Dirty and corroded spark plugs decrease vehicle performance and fuel mileage.

• Tighten all caps (fuel tank, radiator, brake and transmission fluids). To keep water and debris out of the fuel, or other fluids, make sure all caps are tight and seals are in good condition.

• Clean cloudy and dirty headlights. You want to see and be seen on dark cloudy days.

• Check the Tires. Properly inflated tires wear more evenly and increase gas mileage. Check the inflation pressure frequently as changes in temperature can make it fluctuate. Rotate tires on a regular basis to prevent premature tread wear.

• Clean the Car. Teach your teen driver to keep the car clean (both exterior and interior), wash floor mats, windows, interior lights, and dash board. They will learn to appreciate it as they get older.

• Change the air filter. Have it checked and changed as necessary to keep the circulating air clean.

• Check fluid levels. Have the level of all critical fluids checked frequently and top-off as needed.

• Replace wiper blades. Replace wiper blades about every six months. Make sure the washer fluid reservoir is filled and clean.

• Regular oil changes. This is key for a longer lasting car.

A parent or guardian is the number one influence in molding a teen driver into a safe and capable driver. Act as a role model for safe driving practices, and teach your young driver about good car maintenance.

Need affordable and quality 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 about our car maintenance and other services. Since 1997, our auto repair shop has served vehicle owners in Princeton, MN and in the surrounding areas of Milaca and Zimmerman, MN.

Is Your Muffler Too Noisy? Your Exhaust System Needs Help!

Are you noticing loud noises coming from your muffler, or is your car starting to idle rough or the motor die at a stop light? Maybe the "check engine" light flicks on and off, or stays illuminated. These are common problems in vehicles that have a leak in the exhaust system. Your exhaust system may need some help from an auto repair technician.

If you are looking for Car Maintenance Princeton MN then your search can be over now with our Rumriver Automotive Service Princeton MN  shop. Also find Exhaust Systems Princeton MN repairs. 

If you have the right tools and a little assistance, you may be able to determine if there is a leak in your vehicle's exhaust system and also pinpoint the location and source yourself. By following the advice below, you can save valuable time and money spent in an auto shop:

• First, before touching anything, make sure the car is cool while you look under the hood. Especially because metal expands as it heats up, any small leaks will get smaller, making them difficult to detect.
• To force the exhaust through any possible leak, cover the muffler temporarily. Starting at the engine, follow the exhaust system, feeling for hot air escaping through the pipe, especially at the connectors as these areas commonly have leaks. The muffler will get hot, so be careful not to touch it.
• Remove the plastic engine cover in order to inspect the exhaust manifold for cracking or warping. This is a common problem typically found in older cars.
• Check the gaskets for cracking. You may feel hot air escaping as well as a strong smell of fumes. In older cars, it is common for the gasket connecting the manifold to the cylinder head to crack just through normal wear and tear.
• Check the muffler for rust. If it is just on the surface, or if it goes all the way through the metal. Leaks can occur in areas weakened by rust.

Of course, make sure to have your auto repair technician inspect the exhaust system if you're not comfortable conducting these tests yourself. Most auto shops will run diagnostic tests free of charge in order to recommend the appropriate repair service.

Got a noisy muffler? 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 exhaust system maintenance. 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: 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.

If you are looking for car repair Princeton MN your search can be over now with our Rum River auto repairs Princeton MN shop. Also find car maintenance Princeton MN to solve all your car problems.

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.

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.

If you are looking for auto repair Princeton MN your search can be over now with our Rum River automotive repair Princeton MN shop. Also find car maintenance Princeton MN to solve all your car problems.

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.