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.  

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.  

Wondering How Often Should You Get Your Car Serviced?

Like most motorists, you want to take good care of your vehicle and may wonder how often should you get your car serviced?  Simply stated, follow the suggested maintenance schedule in the owner’s manual for your car.  There are two ways in which you will be reminded as to when to get your car serviced.

• In-vehicle Maintenance Reminder Systems If you drive a newer car, it possibly has an in-vehicle maintenance reminder system that makes mileage-based schedules out-of-date. These reminder systems take a number of vehicle operating conditions into account and provide an alert on the dash when it is time for an engine oil change, fluid level checks, component inspections, and other vehicle maintenance services. 
• Mileage-Based Maintenance Service Intervals Older cars have service intervals based on mileage. There are generally two different maintenance schedules, one for cars driven in “normal” operating conditions and another for those used in “severe” operating conditions, such as mainly short trips of five miles, extreme climates, stop-and-go driving, towing a trailer or carrying heavy loads.  

Tip to Remember:  Plan ahead for vehicle maintenance items by finding a car repair shop and auto technician you can trust before you need them. 

Are you wondering how often should you get your car serviced?  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 car owners in Princeton, MN and in the surrounding areas of Milaca, MN, and Zimmerman, MN.  

Caution: Kids in the Street! Safety Tips From a Car Service Center!

In the summertime, your neighborhood can be quite a hub of activity. The kids are outside, just wanting to have fun and the parents are either leaving for or coming home from work. As a reminder, a car service center wants you to remember that in residential communities, kids often play in the street, riding their bikes, throwing a football, or chasing the family pet. Drivers need to be on the lookout for small children darting out of nowhere, many times unaware of their surroundings.

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Safety Tips From a Car Service Center: Look out For Kids Playing In The Street

1.The first tip is to make sure you visit a quality car service center and have your brakes checked. Sometimes being able to protect a child means adequately being able to put on brakes. In fact, it could mean a matter of seconds! Your brakes must be able to respond to the sudden braking.

2.Pay attention to your surroundings. Look ahead of your vehicle 100 feet for children playing in residential neighborhoods. Expect to see them playing outside and in the street. Often times, most children that are hit by a vehicle occurs during the summer in a residential neighborhood.

3. Slow down! You may be running late, have to get dinner, or pick Susie up from practice, but proceeding with caution through a residential area, playgrounds, schools, or park (especially during the summer) is critical.

4. Be aware of the "children at play" sign. If you notice children at play in a particular area that doesn't have a sign, go ahead and petition for one. Remember a car outweighs a child by a couple tons. Think smart behind the wheel.

Make sure your vehicle is ready for safe summer driving by taking care of routine car service. Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Rum River Automotive for more information and to schedule an appointment for a needed car repair. Rum River also offers quality 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.

Make Regular Car Service A New Year's Resolution!

Routine car service and car repair must be your New Year's resolution so that your car will last longer. You need to make sure your car is serviced every quarter, and you are going to have to get car repair done when you know that is going to need it. People who wait for car service are going to get surprised when they get the car fixed, and you must make yourself a small calendar that is going to help you make sure that you are going to get the best results for the car.

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The car itself is going to function better when you are trying to keep the car in good shape. The car will respond better to these services, and the car is going to become the kind of place where you will be able to rely on transportation. There are a lot of people who are going to be able to use the services to keep their cars going, and you will be able to get much more life out of the car. Getting life out of the car is going to be really important, and it is going to be much easier to do when you have done the work yourself.

You must find a place that you feel comfortable going to, and you need to keep going to these places as often as you can so that you will be able to get the car to work right. You should not try to do this on your own because you can go to a mechanic who is going to handle every part of the service schedule so that you are not worried about the car working. Make a resolution to do it right this year so that you will not have any more problems.

Looking for professional car repair? Contact our ASE-Certified Technicians at Rum River Automotive for more information about car service and to schedule an appointment. Since 1997, our auto repair shop has served customers in Princeton, MN, and in the surrounding areas of Milaca and Zimmerman, MN.

Exhaust System: Got a Noisy Muffler?

Whether or not a vehicle’s exhaust system is operating properly is usually the last thing on people’s minds as they start out on their summer road trip. That is until they face the stares of other motorists as they pull in to a gas pump with a noisy muffler. Some drivers don’t understand that the work of the exhaust system does more than keep your car quiet. Don’t just turn up the radio to drown out a loud muffler.

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Do you know the four primary functions of the exhaust system? They are:

• Route the waste gases away from the passenger cabin,
• Help the engine run properly,
• Maintain optimum fuel efficiency, and
• Reduce the amount of polluting emissions into the environment.

Watch out for these signs of problems:

• Catalytic converter – A failing catalytic converter may sound like someone shaking a box of rocks when your vehicle is idling when parked or stopped in traffic. Or, if it has been stolen, you'll immediately notice a loud sound and altered vehicle performance upon startup. The catalytic converter is one of the highest priced exhaust system parts and may be prone to theft by scrap metal thieves.
• Exhaust leak – An exhaust leak can be caused by road conditions and rust, as well as just normal wear and tear. Because the muffler is mounted on the underside of a vehicle, it is exposed to a lot of road conditions that can cause it to break down over time.
• Rust -- The water vapor produced by the catalytic convertor can also be problematic. If you only take your vehicle for short trips, the water vapor produced does not have a chance to be expelled. It condenses back into water, resulting in rust. ISulfer, another by-product of engine emissions, mixes with water left in the exhaust system, can form a corrosive acid that will eat away at the exhaust system.

Note to Remember: Delaying a needed repair to the exhaust system or muffler can be costly. Continuing to drive with an exhaust leak or bad catalytic converter can damage other things in your vehicle's operating systemy.

Need an inspection of the exhaust system for 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.  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, MN and Zimmerman, MN.

Affordable Transmission Repair?

Unfortunately, the average driver knows little about transmission service. When they hear the words "transmission repair," all they can see are big dollar signs in front of their eyes! By taking time to gain an understanding of the various terms and methods of transmission repair, their fear and confusion will lessen.

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A little research on transmission service can be helpful in understanding what it means when your auto mechanic refers to a "minor transmission service" or a "major transmission repair."

Some auto mechanics want to make transmission repair a little more affordable for their customers. Some adjustments or repairs can be made without removing the unit from the vehicle--less costly than a complete overhaul or replacement. Other types of repair can only be resolved by removing the transmission from the vehicle. Take a look at some general types of transmission repair:

In-Car Repairs – Less costly than having to remove the unit from the vehicle.

• Improper shifting: A computer-controlled unit may receive the wrong signals, or it may not react properly to a computer command. The computer may simply need to be reset. In a non-computer-controlled transmission, the throttle cable can be adjusted. Or, if the vehicle has a vacuum modulator, it can be adjusted, making sure that there are no vacuum leaks. In some older transmissions, bands can be adjusted to resolve "slipping" (when an engine races while shifting from one gear to the next).
• Resealing: Most external fluid leaks can be resealed with the unit remaining in the car. An exception is the front seal—it must be removed to gain access to the leak.
• Out-of-the-Car Repairs –Because these repairs require more hours of labor and involve various components that may need to be replaced, they are more costly.
• Rebuilding: During this process, the transmission is removed and completely disassembled. Each part is inspected for wear and damage, and then depending on its condition, either cleaned or replaced. Parts that have friction surfaces (such as bands and clutches, seals and gaskets), are typically replaced.
• Replacement: This option replaces the transmission with another rebuilt or remanufactured unit. This is more expensive, but you can be on your way much faster than the first.

For affordable transmission repair, leave it to the experts! 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 transmission service. Since 1997, our auto repair 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..

8 Car Service Tips It’s Easy!

Following a regular schedule of basic car service is definitely a win-win situation. It not only helps save the environment and our natural resources, but your vehicle will operate more efficiently, increase your driving safety, prolong the life of your vehicle, and save you time and money spent on a costly car repair.

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Get started on the road to being an environmentally conscious driver with these eight car service tips:

• Check tires. Under-inflated tires or wheels out of alignment or balance will decrease fuel efficiency. The engine has to work harder to push the vehicle down the road, using more fuel. Properly maintained tires will last longer, meaning fewer tires to be scrapped.
• Observe speed limits. Driving consistently above 55 mph decreases fuel efficiency significantly. Use cruise-control as much as possible to keep a steady speed, and avoid fast accelerations and jerky stops.
• Avoid excessive idling. Turn off the engine while waiting. With today's advanced automotive technology, those 10-minute warm-ups on cold mornings are no longer necessary.
• Remove extra baggage. Less weight means better mileage. Reduce drag by storing luggage in the trunk rather than on the roof.
• Eliminate unnecessary driving. Consolidate your daily errands, join a car pool, and try to travel when traffic is light to avoid stop-and-go conditions.
• Regular Tune Up services. A misfiring spark plug can reduce fuel efficiency as much as 30%. Follow the service schedules and replace filters and fluids as recommended in your owner's manual.
• Keep your A/C in prime condition. Make sure your air conditioner is serviced only by a certified technician. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, almost one third of the gases released into the atmosphere come from vehicle air conditioners.
• Dispose of used auto fluids properly. Most car repair shops are glad to dispose of used motor oil, anti-freeze, tires, and old batteries for you. You can also call your city or county for recycling sites.

Remember: To ensure that our environment and natural resources are safe for generations to come: operate your vehicle efficiently, maintain it regularly, and dispose of used parts and fluids properly.

Need a premium car service? Our professionals will be happy to help you with any of your car 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 more information. Since 1997, our auto shop has served vehicle owners in Princeton, MN and in the surrounding areas of Milaca and Zimmerman, MN.

Learn How to Break In New Tires!

Selecting the right tires for your vehicle is an important decision. Your safety, as well as driving enjoyment over the next years and thousands of miles will be determined by this decision. To ensure you get the maximum life-span from your new tires, make sure to have a basic tire service performed on a regular basis.

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Tires are comprised of many layers of rubber, steel and fabric. Thus, a break-in period is required to ensure that they deliver their normal ride quality and maximum performance. As tires are cured, a release lubricant is applied to prevent them from sticking in their mold. Some of the lubricant stays on the surface, reducing traction until it is worn away. Five hundred miles of easy acceleration, cornering and braking will allow the mold release lubricant to wear off, allowing the other components to begin working together.

It is also important to note that your old tires probably had very little tread depth remaining when you felt it was time to replace them. As any racer who has tread rubber shaved off of his tires will tell you, low tread depth tires respond more quickly. Don't be surprised if your new tires are a little slower to respond (even if you use the exact same one as before). Their new, full depth brings with it a little more tread squirm until they wear down.

Vehicle owners should understand the importance of having the correct air pressure. Checking air pressure is a vital tire service! Maintaining correct inflation pressure helps optimize performance and fuel economy. Tire deflection (the tread and sidewall flexing where the tread comes into contact with the road) will remain as originally designed and excessive sidewall flexing and tread squirm will be avoided. Heat buildup will be managed and rolling resistance will be appropriate. Proper tire inflation pressure also stabilizes the tire's structure, blending the tire's responsiveness, traction and handling.

NOTE: Be careful whenever you explore the capabilities of your new tires. Remember that every tire requires a break-in period of 500 miles for optimum performance.

Need new tires? 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 tire service. Since 1997, our auto shop has served vehicle owners in Princeton, MN, and in the surrounding areas of Milaca and Zimmerman, MN.

Basic Auto Repair Service Equals Greater Fuel Efficiency!

Summer is just around the corner and many people are starting to plan their family road trips. This means that the price of gas and diesel will be sliding up the scale again. We would like to offer a few auto repair tips to help you save cash on fuel at the pump! The auto repair services and good-sense driving tips listed below will not only help you keep money in your wallet, but also help keep our environment cleaner as many vehicles hit the road this summer.

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Auto Repair Services = Increased MPG:

• Replace air filters. A clogged air filter causes your engine to work harder and your vehicle to become less fuel efficient. Replacing a dirty air filter can increase your mileage by 10%, or 15cents/gallon.
• Be serious about auto repair. Your car's performance depends on it. Always try to follow the manufacturer-recommended maintenance.
• Regular oil changes using the right oil. Proper oil viscosity (5w30 over 10w30) can be a 1-2% increase in mileage.
• Avoid idling. Turn the engine off if you have to sit more than a few minutes.
• Watch the speed limit. Driving over 60mph decreases fuel economy. Use your cruise control on long stretches of road to maintain a steady speed and avoid unnecessary acceleration.
• Use lower octane fuel. Buy the lowest octane appropriate for your car unless it requires premium. Pricey premium doesn't boost fuel economy.
• Don't "top off" when filling your tank. Overfilling wastes $$ on gas you won't use. Additional gas will slop and seep off.
• Tighten the gas cap. Gas evaporates if it has an escape. A loose, missing, or damaged cap can cause you to lose up to 30 gals per year.
• Correct tire pressure. Underinflated tires create more resistance and make your engine work harder, reducing fuel mileage and tire life by as much as 15%.
• Keep your engine serviced. A poorly running engine can reduce mileage by up to 4%. A misfiring spark plug can reduce fuel efficiency by 30%.
• Eliminate drag. Make sure the wheels are in proper alignment, roof racks or bicycle racks removed when not being used, and the trunk empty.
• Fuel Injector cleaning service: A clean fuel system restores performance and improves drivability, maximizing fuel economy and reducing vehicle emissions.
• To see the auto repair technicians in action at Rum River Automotive, click on this link:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pHkjmI3o0WE&feature=youtu.be

On your summer road trip, make sure you are as safe and prepared as your vehicle can be with quality auto repair. 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 out more about our auto repair services. Since 1997, our auto repair shop has served vehicle owners in Princeton, MN, and in the surrounding areas of Milaca and Zimmerman, MN.

Auto Shop Offers Tips To Survive Pothole Season!

How many potholes do you drive through on your commute to work or school? Most of them may be small, but some of them may be quite large, resulting in a very uncomfortable ride. Auto shops would like to advise drivers to be extra careful navigating the roads, especially on rainy days and at times close to dawn and dusk. Auto centers report that they see a lot of vehicles this time of year suffering from pothole damage.

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Why are there so many potholes, you ask? It's not just poor road repair! The constant freezing and thawing of water under the pavement weakens the road and causes large cracks, which when combined with the weight of vehicles, eventually turn into potholes. Thus, severe winter weather often results in roads full of potholes--and auto shops full of damaged vehicles.

An auto center offers these driving tips to help reduce the risk of incurring damage from driving over potholes:

• Leave plenty of room in front of your vehicle so you can avoid potholes without getting into an accident.
• If you can't avoid a pothole, slow down before you hit it. Braking directly over a pothole can actually cause more damage.
• If you have to drive over the pothole, hold the steering wheel firmly to avoid losing control.
• Use caution when driving over a puddle of water because it might be a deep pothole in hiding.
• Take roads you know well so you are familiar with the location of any potholes.
• At night, try to drive on well-lit roads so you can see the surface.

Running over large potholes is not good for tires. Even small potholes can cause serious damage, such as alignment problems or a blow out (especially in underinflated tires). However, damage from potholes doesn't stop at tires. Some potholes can have as much impact as a 35 mph car crash! In one quick moment, you can experience more extensive damage to your car's shock absorbers, suspension system, struts and wheel rims.

Need a trustworthy auto shop for a vehicle suffering from pothole damage? 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 center has served vehicle owners in Princeton, MN, and in the surrounding areas of Milaca and Zimmerman, MN.

Car Service: Shake Off The Winter Blues!

Spring is right around the corner and your vehicle has been working hard to get you through the harsh winter months. Because we have seen severe winter weather all around the country, our vehicles have had to work harder than usual just to get us from point A to point B. But now it is time to shake off that winter wear and tear and get ready for spring with a few basic car repair items.

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Here are some items that will need some special attention in your next car service appointment:

Spark plugs and wires -- Spark plugs fire millions of times, and inefficient spark plugs can cost you performance and fuel mileage.

Caps -- Gas caps, radiator cap, brake fluids and more. Anywhere fluids are poured should be checked for a tight seal to keep out water and debris for a smooth-running car.

Headlights -- Road salt, harsh weather, grime and other debris can leave your headlights cloudy and dirty. Clean them up so you can see and be seen! Or have them professionally cleaned during your next car service.

• Tires – Tires should be rotated at least every 7,500 miles. Changes in temperature create fluctuations in air pressure. Keep your tires properly inflated for even tread wear and for better gas mileage.
• Interior of your car -- Spring cleaning is for your car, too.
• Air filter and cabin air filter -- Let your car breathe fresh air, too.
• Fluid levels -- Checking the level of critical fluids is part of a basic car service.
• Wiper blades – They have worked hard though the cold winter months. Be ready for the spring rains by replacing your wiper blades.
• Oil Change – Regular oil changes are key to a long lasting car.

Remember: For renewed vitality and a fresh out-look for your car, be sure you schedule a spring checkup.

Looking for an auto shop that provides quality car repair? 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 service. Since 1997, our auto shop has served vehicle owners in  Princeton, MN, and in the surrounding areas of Milaca and Zimmerman, MN.

Avoid Costly Car Repair: Follow This Inspection Schedule!

If you plan on keeping your old car rather than trading it for one straight off the showroom floor, you can help avoid a costly car repair by giving it a little extra attention. By checking a few car care items yourself, you can help keep your vehicle out of the car service center and money in your pocket. This means that in the long-run, a little time and money spent now will reap benefits later by maintaining your car's reliability and increasing trade-in value.

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Following the car service tips listed below will show you what kind of professional car repair is needed so you can have confidence in the reliability of your vehicle when needed!

Each Day: 

    * Take a quick walk around your car and inspect it visually before heading out for the day. Have the tires have lost air, are there any new dents or scratches, or do you see a fluid leak? If you keep driving your car without knowing about of the issues, these little problems could become more serious problems.

Each Week:

    * Check the level of fluids (oil, coolant, brake, power steering, and windshield washer). Top off as necessary.

    * Check the air pressure in the tires (including the spare), depth of tread and overall condition. Schedule a tire repair if needed.

    * Make sure that all the lights are working--headlights, brake lights, turn indicators, back-up lights, etc., including the interior lights. Replace any burned-out bulbs.

    * Windshield wipers should be in good condition, keeping your windshield clean of streaks and smears.

    * All windows and mirrors should be clean and free of any cracks or chips.

    * Check for any damage that may cause your vehicle to operate poorly or that may cause a driving hazard (dented fenders can rub against tires and keep brakes from working properly).

    * Wash your vehicle regularly–the finish will last longer! Clean out the inside too!

Tip to Remember: Take care of your car, and it will take care of you with good car service for many miles to come!

For a quality car service, including a professional inspection of the performance of your vehicle's various elements, 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 service and vehicle detailing. Since 1997, our auto repair shop has served vehicle owners in Princeton, MN, and in the surrounding areas of Milaca and Zimmerman, MN.

Car Service: Determining when a car repair is needed after a fluid leak is suspect!

Do you have a fluid leak under your car or truck and need a car service? Before you head out for that car repair, you can be your own private investigator. If you’re not sure whether you are losing oil, transmission fluid, coolant or brake fluid, here is a simple, but effective method for finding out what it is! Knowing this increases the effectiveness of your communication so you know you are getting the correct car repair.

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Place an old white sheet or large piece of white cardboard under your vehicle overnight. In the morning you will have your answer. The different color of each type of fluid will help you diagnose the answer to help you determine what kind of car repair or car service will be required.

Check the colors listed below to give you an indication of what is leaking:

• Bright Green: radiator coolant; also slippery to the touch.
• Light or Dark Brown: Light brown; freshly changed oil, otherwise, you will see a darker brown.
• Bright Blue: windshield washer fluid. (Winter washer fluids can be orange, pink or yellow).
• Light Brown: if there is also a strong odor of rotten eggs, this is gear lube that may be leaking from the rear axle center section or the manual transmission.
• Red Fluid: Automatic transmission fluid or power steering fluid. Note where the fluid is coming from – it could be long-life coolant.
• Clear: Power steering fluid or water from the condenser on the A/C unit.
• Light Yellow: Brake fluid is light yellow when new. It becomes a dark muddy brown as it absorbs water. Brake fluid absorbs 2% water over a one year period under normal braking conditions. It’s important to change this fluid at least every other year.
• Amber: Gasoline, along with a distinct odor.

Keep a sharp eye on your vehicle; leaks can be frustrating and even dangerous. If you’re unsure if a car repair is needed, go to a professional certified mechanic for expert car service. Contact our ASE Certified Technicians today for expert advice by calling (763) 389-3811, or go on-line at http://www.rumriverauto.com/ for more information. We are open every Saturday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. to better serve our customers. Since 1997, our auto repair shop has served vehicle owners in Princeton, MN, and in the surrounding areas of Milaca and Zimmerman, MN.

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

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

If you are looking for quality tires Princeton MN your search can be over now with our Rum River car service Princeton MN shop. Also find car alignment Princeton MN to solve all your car problems.

3 tips to prevent unexpected Tire Repair:

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

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