What is the most common cause of engine failure?

The most common cause of engine failure is a lack of lubrication, often due to low or dirty oil. Without proper lubrication, engine parts can overheat and wear out rapidly, leading to severe damage. Here are other common causes of engine failure:

1. Overheating: This can result from a malfunctioning cooling system, such as a broken water pump, radiator, or thermostat.
2. Detonation: Also known as engine knocking, detonation can cause significant damage over time. It occurs when fuel burns unevenly or prematurely.
3. Lack of Maintenance: Neglecting regular maintenance, such as oil changes, filter replacements, and checkups, can lead to different engine issues.
4. Fuel Problems: Contaminated or incorrect fuel can cause engine damage or failure.
5. Timing Belt or Chain Failure: If the timing belt or chain breaks or slips, it can cause the engine’s internal parts to collide, resulting in catastrophic damage.
6. Cooling System Failures: Problems with the cooling system, such as leaks, clogged passages, or a failing water pump, can lead to overheating and engine failure.

Regular maintenance and prompt attention to any problems can help prevent engine failure and prolong the life of an engine.

Wondering about what is the most common cause of engine failure? Call our ASE Certified mechanics at Rum River Automotive for more information on engine service and to request an appointment. Our auto repair shop proudly serves residents in the community of Princeton, MN, and in the surrounding areas of Milaca, MN, and Zimmerman, MN.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Do you Know What Does an Engine Rebuild Consist of?

Most vehicle owners have heard of an engine rebuild but not many really know what does an engine rebuild consist of and why it is compulsory. There are two main reasons for an engine rebuild:  

• Worn engine bearings -- The moving parts of the engine are mounted on bearings lubricated by the engine oil so that they move freely.  When the bearings become worn, they produce loud knocking sounds and can ultimately cause failure of the engine.  The bearings are actually built to last thousands of mines, but wear is accelerated when a vehicle is not maintained correctly and is run on low levels of oil or even dirty oil.  
• Poorly-sealed piston rings -- Piston rings to seal in the expanding gasses created by the burning of gasoline within the engine. As piston rings wear, they no longer seal the cylinders correctly, resulting in a phenomenon called "blow-by.”  Blow-by occurs when crankcase oil escapes past worn rings and is burned with the fuel mixture in the cylinder. This may be the reason that older engines have an unnecessary amount of smoke in the exhaust.

What does an engine rebuild consist of?  First, the "short block" or lower half of the engine is removed, disassembled, and then cleaned so that the condition of the block can be correctly assessed. Depending on the condition of the external parts of the engine, the piston rings, bearings and occasionally the pistons themselves are replaced. The internal surfaces of the cylinders are also reconditioned to ensure that the new piston rings can form a correct seal with the cylinder walls. The cylinder head may also be renovated at a similar time.

Do you understand the benefits of an engine rebuild? First, you know that everything has been closely checked and now has new parts. Second, the worn parts are recycled to help reduce the amount of scrap in the environment.  The third, and the best, the benefit is the connectivity and compatibility with the existing ECU and electrical system. 

Do you want to know more about what does an engine rebuild consist of?  Call our ASE Certified Technicians at Rum River Automotive for more information about engine service 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.  

Is An Engine Rebuild Worth the Cost?

Periodically, it is important to have your engine serviced. However, just because it has undergone some engine repair doesn't keep it from developing any further complications. Engine repair is a significant part of car service, but if the motor develops more complications, an engine rebuild could be the solution for keeping your auto in good health.

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Before settling on which option to choose; a major engine repair or a relatively costly engine rebuild, it is vital to consider the pros and cons of each. The advantages and disadvantages range from expense to the general performance of the vehicle after the repair or rebuild. Security of the vehicle and its performance relies on that decision.

In spite of the advantages of a rebuilt engine, consider a number of factors, such as the expense that would be incurred and the residual value of the car. For instance, if it is an older vehicle, an engine rebuild may enhance the lifespan of the vehicle, but it might cost significantly more than the value of the car. Retaining the value of a newer car is important so then rebuilding the engine would probably be a wise decision as it would have increase the performance and value.

Before making a decision of whether or not to have an engine rebuild in your current vehicle, ask your engine repair technician for their professional opinion.

Do you know how to calculate whether an engine rebuild is worth the cost? Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Rum River Automotive for more information about our engine repair services. 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.

The Importance of Following the Transmission Service Schedule!

Summer provides a perfect opportunity for drivers to hit the road and enjoy a great trip. For this to happen, your car needs to be in a good running condition. It is interesting to note that most people worry more about their car breaking down in cold weather than in hot weather. However, hot temperatures can wreak havoc on your motor. The best strategy for overcoming common car problems in cold and hot weather is performing regular car maintenance, including a transmission service, and keeping a close eye on your vehicle’s performance. For instance, you can avoid the problem of overheating by checking your coolant and avoid driving when the outside temperature is above 100 degrees.

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The transmission is the heart and soul of your car. Whenever your vehicle requires transmission repair, whether a replacement or just a minor adjustment, always look for a professional transmission service technician.

The key components of the transmission system include torque converter, sensors, clutches, planetary gearset, valve body and pump. Some of the most common transmission repair issues include strange sounds coming from the engine, slipping gears and fluid leakage. For the average driver, the transmission fluid needs to be flushed after 100,000 miles.

The fluid replacement duration depends on the driver’s behavior and the type of terrain you usually use. This critical information is also available in the owner’s manual. A good transmission fluid has a clear red color while a bad one appears dark and smelly. To preserve the fluid, always avoid towing your car on overdrive because this can burn up the transmission. In addition to routine transmission service, protect your car from the summer heat by topping up all the lubricants and coolant, keep the gas cap tight and clean any corrosion on the battery. You also need to make sure your hoses and belts are free of frays and cracks.

Looking for quality transmission repair to get ready for summer? Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Rum River Automotive for more information about our transmission 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.

Get Ready for Summer with Quality Auto Repair!

It's hard to believe that summer is almost upon us. Summer season officially begins Memorial Day weekend which means families will be hitting the roads in order to take advantage of the beautiful weather and outdoor activities. It also means that the increase in vehicle use makes it necessary to plan on taking care of a needed auto repair before an incident occurs during a road trip. Seeking the advice of professionals at a trustworthy auto repair shop prior to hitting the road could save a vacation from becoming a disaster.

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Checking the tires, oil, and fluid levels should be part of any basic maintenance routine. During hot weather, over or under inflated tires could lead to a blow-out or even a roll-over. Fluids are equally important during the summer months especially during extended road trips. When it gets hot the last thing you want is an engine overheating, an air conditioner that has stopped working, or wiper fluid that is too low to clear windows when needed. Many people don't realize that air conditioners lose 5% of their efficiency for each year of operation when regular maintenance has not been conducted. Checking an air conditioning system prior to leaving for summer vacation could ensure a much more enjoyable trip.

A professional auto repair specialist will ensure that tires, oil, and fluids are filled appropriately for the conditions to be encountered while on the road. They can also repair any issues associated with squeaks, groans, or other noises that could lead to an eventual breakdown.

With more people expecting their vehicles to remain road-worthy longer than ever before, utilizing the services of an expert auto repair specialist is essential for preventative maintenance as well as needed repairs and/or upgrades that will keep your vehicle in tip-top condition throughout its lifetime. Getting your vehicle ready for the busy summer ahead should be a top priority and it should start with a certified and highly qualified auto repair specialist.

Looking for affordable auto repair? Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Rum River Automotive for more information and to schedule an appointment. Rum River 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.

Is an Engine Rebuild Worth the Expense?

As your car ages and gets more and more use, the engine can begin to experience issues. In some cases, simple engine repair is just not enough and an engine rebuild may be necessary. There are many pros and cons to going with an engine rebuild as opposed to just simple repair. Knowing these advantages and disadvantages will help you to figure out which option is best for you. Make sure you ask an expert auto repair technician for professional advice before making a decision.

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Going with an engine rebuild is obviously going to be a lot more expensive than basic engine repair. The reason for this is due to the fact that the entire engine will be rebuilt from what it once was. If your car is older and rebuilding the engine is going to cost more than what the car is worth, it is absolutely not worth it to go through with this project. If, on the other hand, you have a classic car or a vehicle that is still worth quite a bit, having the engine completely rebuilt will help to keep that car running well and also retain its value.

If you choose to go with an engine rebuild, it is vital that you have all work done by the experts. Sure, this project is quite expensive, but it is a must for classic cars and expensive vehicles that would otherwise lose value if the engine is not revamped. Be sure to contact a local auto repair shop so that the work can be done in a timely manner. Your car will be back up and running better than ever once the work is done.

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

Is it time for an Engine Rebuild?

If you’re starting to hear strange noises coming from your engine, head over to your auto shop and ask for professional engine repair assistance. If you let an engine problem go on to long without taking care of it, you may be looking at more than a simple engine repair—an engine rebuild!

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There are a variety of reasons that engine are rebuilt:

• Worn out engine bearings—worn bearings produce a loud knocking noise and eventually cause engine failure. The moving parts of the engine (such and the crankshaft, rods and pistons) are mounted on bearings that allow them to move freely. These bearings are lubricated by engine oil and are built to last many thousands of miles.  They do wear down after time, accelerated exponentially when a vehicle is poorly maintained, runs low oil levels, or the oil change schedule isn't properly followed.
• Worn out piston rings—piston rings seal in the expanding gasses created by the burning of gasoline within the engine.  As the rings wear, they no longer seal the cylinders properly.  This results in “blow-by,” which is when crankcase oil escapes past worn rings and burns with the fuel mixture in the cylinder.  

What are the symptoms that an engine rebuild is needed?

• Excessive oil consumption
• Excessive white smoke in the exhaust, especially when the engine is cold.
• Metal shavings in the engine oil (a common sign of dangerously worn bearings)
• Knocking or chattering sounds from the engine bearings.

What is an Engine Rebuild?

First, the "short block" or lower half of the engine is removed, disassembled and cleaned so that the condition of the block can be properly assessed. Depending on the condition of the internal parts, the rings, bearings and sometimes the pistons are replaced. The internal surfaces of the cylinders are also reconditioned to ensure that the new piston rings can form a proper seal with the cylinder walls. Finally, the engine is reassembled and installed back into the vehicle.  The cylinder head may also be reconditioned at the same time.

Note: A rebuild can be very expensive. A cheaper option might be swapping in a lower-mileage engine or an engine that is in better condition.

Is an engine rebuild on your horizon?  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 engine repair or other vehicle maintenance, including 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.

Automotive Repair Get Ready for Summer!

Spring is here and the temperatures will start to rise as we get closer to summer. Now is a good time to get your car ready for summer's hot temperatures. Be sure to have the appropriate automotive service performed at the recommended interval. It will not only potentially save you $$$ in automotive repair expense, it can literally be a lifesaver in hot conditions.

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5 Automotive Service Tips:

• Regular Oil Changes -- Regularly change the oil and filter, as well check the other fluids and filters (coolant, brake and transmission) and refresh at the recommended intervals. Don't skimp on using high-quality filters.
• Inspect the Brakes – Have an inspection of the braking system before heading out on a long road trip. Check the condition of the brake rotors, pads, and calipers to determine if a brake repair is necessary. Are the pads warped or cracked with deep grooves? Are the pads worn close to their minimum clearance?
• Working Lights -- Make sure all your lights are working properly. New bulbs cost only a few dollars and are fairly easy to install. If you can't do it yourself, don't delay in scheduling an automotive service for safety.
• Clean the Windshield – Be ready for those sudden summer thunder storms with good windshield wipers and a full washer fluid reservoir. If necessary, replace a cracked windshield so the safety of your passenger cabin is not compromised.
• Check the Tires -- Have your tires rotated, inspected and filled with the correct air pressure before heading out on a long road trip. If your tires are worn, it is wise to replace them. Remember to make sure the spare is in good condition so you're not stranded with a flat tire on a hot summer day.

Why spend money on quality automotive service? It will. . .

• enhance the safety of you and your passengers
• enhance the safety of other motorists
• increase gas mileage will increase
• ensure a smoother running vehicle
• ensure your vehicle will come to a stop quickly.

Need the help of automotive repair 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 information about our automotive service. Since 1997, our auto repair shop has served vehicle owners in Princeton, MN and in the surrounding areas of Milaca and Zimmerman, MN.

Car Pulling Problems? It could it be the Wheel Alignment!

If your car is pulling to the left or right, it could be one or more of several different causes. Improper wheel alignment is just one cause, and actually not the most common. A car alignment technician will check out several things before actually performing a wheel alignment.

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Causes of steering problems:

• Road Crown -- If your car pulls to the side only on certain roads; it may be the "road crown." Roads are never built perfectly level, but are intentionally designed to slant about 1/2" per foot which allows the rain to drain off. However, it will also cause a vehicle to pull slightly in the direction of the slant. A skilled wheel alignment technician will offset the car alignment very slightly to allow for a road crown.
• Conicity – Conicity is when the belts are not perfectly aligned under the tread of the tire, causing the tire to inflate in a cone-shape. This defect causes a hard pull in one direction, and is a result of poor manufacturing. Properly aligned belts inflate squarely, across the tread. This type of pull gets worse as the vehicle travels faster.
• Belt Separation – Air can force the belts to separate from the tire carcass. This is dangerous, causing the tire to fail unexpectedly. A shake or shimmy may also develop, especially noticeable at low speeds.
• Air pressure – When air pressure is lower on one side, the height of the tire changes—also changing the wheel alignment. An under- inflated tire has more rolling resistance, making the pull more noticeable. A low rear tire can also change front wheel alignment, causing a pull.
• Tread Pattern -- Different tire brands, or even the same brand with different wear patterns, do not have the same rolling characteristic. For instance, replacing one tire in a set, or putting a new tire on the front with an older tire, may cause a pull to the side. Replacing tires in pairs is ideal, generally on the rear of the vehicle.
• Tire Rotation – A pull may be noticed after rotating tires. A mismatched tire may have previously been on the rear. When rotated to the front, the problem will be noticeable. Leaving it on the rear may be the best solution if the tire is safe to operate.
• Brakes -- A brake problem or a loose suspension component may cause a pull only when braking. With a sticking caliper, wheel cylinder or even a hydraulic fault, one brake may remain applied, causing the vehicle to drift in the direction of the problem, and for the brake to overheat. A burning smell, combined with a pull, might suggest a brake-related pull.
• Worn suspension -- Worn suspension parts may also shift position when the brakes are applied. When the brake is released, a quick pull may be noticed.

Tip: Find a reliable auto shop that will check the above items before trying to sell you an unnecessary wheel alignment job!

Wondering if you need a car alignment? 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.

Engine Repair: Is Your Check Engine Light Glowing?

The average car on the road today is almost 11 years old, and even though cars are built to last longer, all that wear and tear takes a toll. In fact, 80 percent of vehicles are in need of some form of engine service or engine repair right now. If you've been ignoring that "check engine" light on your dash, you're not alone. According to CarMD.com (which tracks repair trends on cars up to 10 years old), more than 9 million US drivers have ignored their car's "check engine" light for three months or more.

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Ignoring that message, and any corresponding engine service, could wind up costing you a bundle down the road. The light is alerting you to a problem with the car's engine or related systems. A blinking "check engine" light indicates there's a more severe problem that is doing mechanical damage to your car and should not be ignored. When this occurs, the best thing to do is limit driving and have the problem diagnosed by an engine repair techecnician as soon as possible.

Virtually all vehicles manufactured since 1996 are equipped with a "check engine" light, which is part of an on-board diagnostics system that constantly checks information from the engine to the transmission sensors to emissions-related problems. It covers about 80% of the systems on most cars, light trucks, SUVs and minivans.

Common failures that could cause the "check engine" light to glow are:

• Oxygen sensor, which monitors the amount of unburned oxygen in the exhaust and tells your car's computer when there is either too much, or not enough fuel.

• Mass air flow sensor, which calculates the amount of air coming into the car and determines how much fuel to shoot into the engine.

• Spark plugs, which are responsible for igniting a car's air/fuel ratio. When they fail, they can cause an engine "misfire," reduce your gas mileage, and ultimately ruin your car's catalytic converter.

Turn the light off! Prevent car problems by having the proper engine service and maintenance performed on schedule!

Looking for quality engine 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 engine service, other repairs and maintenance, 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.

Advice From An Auto Shop: Keep Children Bicyclists Safe!

Now that school has started, remember that the number of children bicyclists has increased. On most highways, bicyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as vehicles and often share the same lane. However, Children riding bicycles create special problems for drivers because they are not nearly as capable of proper judgment as an adult when determining traffic conditions.  Be alert and avoid an urgent visit to an auto shop, or more importantly, the hospital!

One main issue is that bicycles can be difficult to see among the other vehicles. Riders are more exposed and more easily injured in an accident. The most common causes of bicycle and auto collisions are drivers turning left in front of an oncoming bicycle or turning right into the path of a bicycle. Oncoming bicycle traffic is often obscured and their speed is difficult to determine.

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To refresh your memory on bicycle safety laws, here's a reminder from an auto center:

• When passing a bicyclist going the same direction, do so slowly and leave at least a 3 foot clearance distance between you and the bicycle until you have safely passed.
• When a bicyclist is entering the intersection from the opposite direction and you are intending to turn left, wait for the bicyclist to pass before turning.
• If your vehicle is turning right and a bicyclist is approaching on the right, let the bicyclist go through the intersection first before making a right turn.
• Always use your turn signals.
• Watch for bicycle riders turning in front of you without looking or signaling, especially if the rider is a child.
• Be especially cautious in school zones and neighborhoods where children and teenagers might be riding. Watch out for bikes coming out of driveways or from behind parked cars or other obstructions.
• Check side mirrors for bicyclists before opening the door.

Remember: By following the safety tips above, drivers can help prevent auto accidents and accident-related injuries, possibly even saving a life!

Schedule an inspection at your auto shop to make sure all your lights and blinkers 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. Since 1997, our auto center has served vehicle owners in Princeton, MN and in the surrounding areas of Milaca and Zimmerman, MN.

Quality Car Service: Be Sure Your Teen is Safe behind the Wheel!

School is starting, which means that many teenagers will be getting behind the wheel to get back and forth to school and other activities. Parents have spent years protecting their children from all sorts of dangers on the road and off. They now face the fact that their teens are starting to drive on their own. One of the first steps of preparation is to make sure that all recommended car service and any needed car repair has been performed on the vehicle your teen will be driving. Teenagers generally are not experienced enough to recognize the signs indicating a pending car repair issue.

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Spell out the Rules – Surveys show that teens whose parents impose driving restrictions typically engage in less risky driving and are involved in fewer crashes. Don't just hand over the keys with no rules. Your teen should agree to the five basic rules below before getting behind the wheel:

#1: No Cell Phones - Talking on a cell phone while driving reduces reaction time, no matter how experienced you are as a driver. Texting is among the worst of all distractions, as it involves manual, visual, and cognitive actions.

#2: No Extra Passengers -- In a study analyzed by NHTSA, teen drivers were two-and-a-half times more likely to engage in one or more potentially risky behaviors when driving with a teenage peer compared to when driving alone. Research shows that the risk of a fatal crash goes up in direct relation to the number of teenagers in the car.

#3: No Speeding -- Speeding is a major factor contributing to teen drivers involved in fatal crashes. Talk to your teen about the dangers of speeding and staying in control of the vehicle. Remind them to always follow the posted limit and of the potential consequences.

#4: No Alcohol – Young drivers 15 to 20 years old are at far greater risk of death in crashes involving alcohol than adults, even though they cannot legally purchase or possess it. If lucky enough to survive a crash, the teen will have to face the consequences of breaking the law. That could include a trip to jail, loss of a driver's license, and dozens of other expenses including attorney fees, court costs, other fines, and insurance consequences. The teen will also stand to lose academic eligibility, college acceptance, and scholarship awards.

#5: Always buckle up -- Remind your teenagers that whether they are driving across town or just around the neighborhood, wearing seat belts is the absolute best way to protect themselves and their passengers. Seat belts help drivers maintain control of the vehicle in emergency situations.

Remember: As a parent, you are the #1 influence molding your young adult into a safe and capable driver. Talking is important, but action is even better. Start by modeling good habits, such as turning off your cell phone and buckling up, any time you drive them anywhere, even before they begin to drive.

To help ensure the safety of your teen's vehicle, make sure all recommended car repair has been taken care of 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 car service schedules. Since 1997, our auto repair shop has served vehicle owners in Princeton, MN and in the surrounding areas of Milaca and Zimmerman, MN.

Engine Service: Is it Time to Change the Serpentine Belt?

If you have owned your vehicle for at least two to three years, you may have heard your mechanic recommend an engine repair to replace the serpentine belt. Unfortunately, many drivers do not know what a serpentine belt is and what it has to do with engine service. A serpentine belt is an important component of the engine—it is a single ribbed belt that drives the various pumps and accessories of the vehicle; such as the air conditioner, power steering, and alternator.

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Unfortunately, a serpentine belt won't last the life of your vehicle. It needs to be inspected fairly often. If your mechanic notices that the belt is starting to fail, it can be replaced at a time of your choosing--not when the belt decides to break, requiring an urgent and costly engine repair. Check your owner's manual for the recommended interval for replacing the serpentine belt. One way to remember is to check ribbed drive belts at every oil change, and the position of the self-adjusting mechanism indicator.

Warning Signs of Trouble:

If the serpentine belt gets oil soaked or glazed, it will slip and not provide the proper circulation to keep the engine cool. If there is an oil leak somewhere, it is important to have it repaired before putting on a new belt.

If there are tear or abrasions on the belt, it is probably rubbing against a pulley flange or bolt as it winds its way around. The flange may need to be filed smooth or bent out of the way.

If there are any pinholes or bumps, it means dirt and debris is getting in between the serpentine belt and the pulleys. Turn the belt around and see if there are chunks of the ribs missing. A few, small chunks are okay, but if there are many or they are close together, it is time to replace the belt.

Engine Service Guideline: Schedule an engine service on a regular basis to have belts and hoses checked. If there are any cracks on a belt or hose [about 1/8 inch (or 3 m) apart], it may be reaching the end of its serviceable life and need to be replaced.

For quality engine 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 engine service, other repairs and maintenance, 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.

Brakes: The Payload Effect!

You've seen the commercials for pickup trucks--heavy-duty machinery hoisting construction materials so hefty that when placed in the bed, the entire back dips under the weight, and then bounces back up. Most pickup drivers want to able to carry a large payload. But are all trucks sturdy? Does payload really make a difference when it comes to the efficiency of brakes? Be sure to check with your brake service specialist for expert advice.

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What is the Payload Effect?

    * Weight - Payload is the amount of weight a vehicle can safely hold. This amount doesn't change over the life of the truck. Overloading a truck will change how it steers and brakes. Even a heavier payload that is within a safe amount puts a strain on brakes because there is a higher braking temperature. Steering can also be more difficult because of the increased weight. Think how you can move and stop when holding an empty cardboard box. Now think about trying those quick moves with 200 pounds in the box. This same concept applies to a vehicle's payload.

    * Distribution – The distribution of the cargo also plays a role in how payload affects steering and braking. The center of gravity in a truck can be shifted by placing a lot of weight in the back. Brakes and steering can be affected differently depending on what constitutes the payload--and how it is distributed. Occasionally, a heavy or oddly distributed payload can cause brakes to lock up.

    * Shifting - Cargo should always be properly secured, with padding added as necessary to keep th¬e payload from moving. Don't put any unnecessary strain on the brakes, or allow any damage the cargo.

Remember: While driving with a heavy payload, take extra care and avoid sudden or hard stops. This will help to keep the strain on brakes to a minimum. If in doubt as to the correct payload your vehicle can handle, be sure to ask your brake service technician for professional advice.

Looking for quality brake service? 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 brakes. Since 1997, our auto shop has served vehicle owners in Princeton, MN and in the surrounding areas of Milaca and Zimmerman, MN.

Engine Service: Check out 3 Critical Components!

A smart driver will have an engine service performed by a trained mechanic to ensure their automobile will continue to operate smoothly and efficiently. If you keep your vehicle for very long, even with regular engine service, it's inevitable that a major component will probably fail sooner or later, resulting in a necessary engine repair.

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The basic purpose of an engine is to convert air and fuel into rotary motion, which then turns the wheels of the car. If the air and/or fuel become blocked, you won't have any choice but to schedule an engine repair.

To keep your wheels turning, there are three main components that should be inspected in a typical engine service:

Crankshaft: The crankshaft is connected to the pistons by a connecting rod. The crankshaft rides on bearings, supporting the crankshaft and rods, connecting the pistons to the crankshaft.  A loud knocking noise may indicate that the bearings are wearing out. There may be two choices of engine repair—remove the crankshaft and machine the surface where the bearings ride, or remove and replace the entire crankshaft.

Pistons: Most motors have 4, 6, or 8 pistons which move vertically within the cylinders. The pistons have rings that keep the oil free of fuel and air and keep it from entering the combustion chamber.  The rings wear out over time, allowing oil to enter the combustion chambers. As the oil burns, grayish/white smoke is emitted from the tailpipe. Worn out rings also allow fuel and air to leak into the oil and dilute it, reducing its ability to lubricate the engine, resulting in premature wear. Replacing the rings is a fairly common engine repair.

Valve train: The valve train consists of valves, rocker arms, pushrods, lifters, and camshaft. Its job is to let air and fuel in and out of the engine at the proper time. The timing is controlled by the camshaft, which is synchronized to the crankshaft by a chain or belt.  Grayish/white smoke when you start your car may be an indication of leaking valve seals. Oil can seep into the combustion chamber and collect there until you start your car.

Whether you need a basic engine service, or a more extensive engine repair, our qualified auto mechanics can help you keep your car on the road. Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Rum River Automotive today by calling (763) 389-3811, or go on-line at http://www.rumriverauto.com/ for more information. Since 1997, our auto repair shop has served customers in Princeton, MN, and in the surrounding areas of Milaca and Zimmerman, MN.

Engine Rebuild? Prevent it with quality Engine Service!

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

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

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

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

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