Showing posts with label vehicle maintenance Princeton MN. Show all posts
Showing posts with label vehicle maintenance Princeton MN. Show all posts

Friday, 11 September 2020

Why Vehicle Maintenance is Important for Fall?

why vehicle maintenance is important

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.  

Thursday, 19 December 2019

What is the importance of car maintenance for winter driving?

importance of car maintenance


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.  

Thursday, 31 October 2019

Wondering How Often Should You Do Car Maintenance?

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.  

Saturday, 16 March 2019

What Car Maintenance Needs To Be Done?

Vehicle Maintenance Priceton MN


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.  

Sunday, 11 December 2016

Sliding Down the Road? You May Need New Tires!

Tires Princeton MN


There are several reasons to check your tires before winter arrives in full force. You may need new tires for the harsher winter conditions. There are advantages and disadvantages of snow tires, especially because of the extra traction they provide. These tires are different from all-season wheels, composed of a high-quality rubber compound with studs for greater grip on the pavement.

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Snow tires have...

Better Grip

When roads are covered in snow or ice, snow treads are indisputably superior. They are specifically built for maximum grip. Deeper treads and hard studs combine to provide better traction. If you drive in harsh winter weather, snow treads are essential.

Superior Braking

When conditions are poor, braking is compromised by thin threads, and versatile all-season models can lock up and skid. New tires with winter treads dig into snow and ice to break quickly and safely.

Protect yourself and your family. Check air pressure often and if you need to get new tires do not put it off, especially in the winter months. Because air expands when heated and contracts when cooled, it is critical to check the air pressure in the fall and early winter months. As the temperatures drop, the pressure will also go down.

The rule of thumb for temperature change is that for every 10 degrees Fahrenheit, tire pressure changes by 2 percent. Inflation goes up with hotter temperatures and down with colder temperatures. In most of the U.S., the summer and winter temperatures vary by 50 degrees Fahrenheit. This results in a drop of 5 psi (pounds per square inch) in the dead of winter. This is enough to compromise the handling, traction and longevity of your tires. Check your pressure in the morning for most accurate readings.

Need a set of high-quality winter tires? Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Rum River Automotive for more information about the kind of new tires needed for your vehicle. 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.

Wednesday, 23 March 2016

Give Your Car Some TLC with Quality Vehicle Maintenance!

Vehicle Maintenance Princeton MN


A car is a wonderful thing to own. Besides your house a vehicle might be the single largest purchase that you ever make. Let's face it, buying a vehicle regardless of whether that vehicle is new or used, can be costly. This is a reason to make sure that you follow the good vehicle maintenance rules. Car maintenance will save you a small truckload of money in the long run and it so easy to do. Still many people simply forget or don't understand the major benefits it offers.

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One of the benefits of good maintenance is that your vehicle will run better even as it ages. When you take the time to repair the old or broken parts, it's like making the car well again. Keeping a vehicle well maintained will also help you to get better gas mileage.  Even though the price of fuel has gone down, getting better gas mileage is a concern for many people. Things like simple monthly check-ups, specific tests, and proper diagnostics can save you time and money over the years. Let's face it, having a car is a virtual necessity for almost everyone and when you car fails it creates nothing but frustration and unneeded stress.

Here are some ideas to think about: Every month check the oil level, hoses and belts, tire pressure, the coolant and the air filter; every three months have an oil change, have the oil filter replaced, check windshield washer fluid, the horn, brakes and spare tire; every six months check the exhaust system, lights and shock absorbers. Doing these little things will help to make sure your vehicle is in the best condition and running for a long time.

Remember the bottom line: If you give your car some tender loving care with quality vehicle maintenance, it will show you love in return by providing many great years of service.

Looking for quality vehicle maintenance? Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Rum River Automotive for more information about car maintenance 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.

Thursday, 17 September 2015

Save Money with Routine Vehicle Maintenance.

Vehicle Maintenance Princeton MN

Many vehicle owners are interested in saving money. There are some simple ways to stretch your dollar at the pump and also protect the environment. Taking care of routine vehicle maintenance is one of those ways. Some drivers don’t realize that fuel efficiency is directly related to car maintenance, whether it’s good or bad.

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6 Vehicle Maintenance Tips to help you save money:

  • Regular Tune-Ups: Regular tune ups can improve gas mileage by an average of 4 percent.
  • Correct Tire Pressure: Keeping the correct air pressure in your tires can improve gas mileage by up to 3.3 percent.
  • The Right Motor Oil: Using the grade of motor oil recommended by the manufacturer can improve gas mileage by 1 to 2 percent
  • Change the Air Filter: Replacing a clogged air filter can improve fuel economy, performance, and acceleration.
  • Tighten the Gas Cap: A damaged, loose or missing gas cap allow gass to vaporize into the air.
  • Fix what’s wrong: Addressing a serious maintenance problem, like a faulty oxygen sensor, can improve mileage by as much as 40 percent.

There are several other ways that drivers can increase fuel efficiency (thereby saving money) in their vehicle:  

  • Modify driving habits (observe the speed limit and avoid quick stops and starts),
  • Consolidate trips,
  • Avoid excessive idling, and
  • Remove unnecessary items from the trunk.
Looking for quality vehicle maintenance services?  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 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 ZimmermanMN

Saturday, 31 January 2015

Need New Tires for Safe Winter Driving?

Don't be stranded out in the cold with an unexpected break down. Take a few extra minutes of your time and make sure your winter driving is as safe as it can be. Before you head out for that skiing trip, or even for your daily commute, take time to get a standard inspection service to make sure that your vehicle is up for the task of the cold weather and miles still to come. This inspection should include checking all fluids (transmission, brakes, battery, power steering, radiator), a needed oil change, inspection of your tires (purchasing new tires or snow tires may be necessary if you're headed to the slopes), braking system, and steering and suspension systems. Don't forget to check the spare too!

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


  • Depth of Tread -- The tread on your tires should be at least 1/16 of an inch (1.6 millimeters) in depth. Don't let it get any thinner than that, and twice that much is better if you regularly drive on slick, wet surfaces.
  • Cracked Sidewalls – This could be a sign that your tire is developing a leak.
  • Bulges and Blisters – This is an indication that the outer surface of the tire has begun to weaken.
  • Excessive Vibration – This can be caused for several reasons; tires out of alignment or out of balance, failing shock absorbers, or a problem in internal structure of the tire.
As much as you try to be prepared and your vehicle has received a clean bill of health, the unexpected can happen, such as engine problems, flat tires, accidents, road closures, and other issues. Make sure you carry a roadside emergency kit in the trunk. These are readily available at most retailers and auto part stores. Don't forget to add a couple of blankets, snacks, and water.

Need a set of high-quality tires for safe winter driving? Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Rum River Automotive by calling (763) 389-3811, or go on-line at http://www.rumriverauto.com for more information. Rum River offers quality auto repair and 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.

Tuesday, 23 December 2014

Car Alignment Problems?

"Ouch! I've just hit a pothole!" We've all said those words after hitting a deceptively deep pothole hidden by a puddle of water. Is your car now pulling or drifting to the left or right, or is there too much "play" in the steering? By endeavoring to pinpoint tire problems, the candor and castor of your front-end alignment, and taking your car for a road test, your auto mechanic can determine what kind of problem you are experiencing and then perform the right service, whether it's to correct the wheel alignment, or a tire rotation.

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4 Steps to Diagnosing Steering Problems:
1. Eliminate tire problems. Before attempting to diagnose a wheel alignment problem, eliminate the possibility that your tires are the cause of steering problems:
    • Make sure all four tires are inflated to the recommended pressure.
    • Check to see that the tread and tire size are the same on both front wheels. Don't drive with a snow tire on one side and a normal highway tire on the other side.
    • Check for unusual tread wear or damaged tires. A good time is when you have a tire rotation or the air pressure checked.

2. Examine your front-end alignment. There are different aspects to front-end alignments for rear-wheel drive vehicles:
    • Toe-in. The front of each tire, when driving straight, points slightly to the centerline of the vehicle. This gives an advantage when cornering so each tire has equal traction (bite), but if it is angled inward too much, the OUTSIDE of the tire's tread wears more quickly.
    • Castor. This is the vertices angle of the centerline of the tire from front to back. Unless the ball joints, control arm bushings, or king pins are seriously worn, the castor doesn't vary too much.
    • Camber. This is the vertical angle of the centerline of the tire perpendicular to the cross-section of your car.

3. Road test. While driving on a flat, level, smooth highway, on a dry and calm day, perform the following tests:
    • Loosen your grip on the steering wheel enough to let the car proceed on its own. If the car pulls to the left or the right, you may need a wheel alignment.
    • Listen for sounds from the front end of the car while driving slowly. Scraping, whining, or grinding sounds may indicate excessive friction as the tire tread rubs against the road.
    • Have someone follow you to observe the front to back wheel alignment. If the front wheels are not tracking in the same groove as the back, you may have a bent frame.

4. Abnormal tread wear. Besides a car alignment problem, there are also other causes of unusual tire wear, including.
    • Worn struts or shock absorbers.
    • Worn out or loose wheel bearings.
    • Worn or damaged tie-rod ends, ball joints, upper and lower control arm bushings, and other steering components.
    • A worn or damaged steering gear box.
    • Poor driving habits—uneven distribution of heavy loads, hard cornering, braking, or swerving.

Important Tip: After you have had your front end checked and realigned, repeat the tests above to make sure the car alignment has been done correctly.

Wondering if you need a wheel 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 about our car alignment service. Since 1997, our auto shop has served vehicle owners in Princeton, MN and in the surrounding areas of Milaca and Zimmerman, MN

Friday, 20 June 2014

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Check the Transmission – Don't let transmission problems take control of your vacation by stranding you in a strange town looking for a transmission repair. Because most mechanics do not road-test transmissions (except as part of a major vehicle maintenance service), it's up to you to report any signs of problems.
Perform All Recommended Services – Even though scheduled car maintenance can sometimes cost more than you would like, it will prolong the life of all the systems and parts that make your car function safely.
Remember: Regular vehicle maintenance will save you dollars, and give you confidence behind the wheel!

Whether you are just heading out for the day, or planning an extended road trip, contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Rum River Automotive by calling (763) 389-3811, or go on-line at http://www.rumriverauto.com/ for more information about vehicle maintenance. Since 1997, our auto repair shop has served vehicle owners in Princeton, MN, and in the surrounding areas of Milaca and ZimmermanMN.

Thursday, 6 October 2011

Car Tune Up Princeton MN: Car Shopping Tips from the Tune Up Specialists!

If you’re tired of your old “clunker” always needing some form of auto repair or tune up, you may be ready to turn it in and head out the door to look for a reliable used car or truck. You don’t want to worry whether it needs a basic car tune up, or has some other complex problem that is lurking just under the hood.

In a recent survey by Kelley Blue Book, the majority of car shoppers plan to buy used and spend less than $15,000. The competition is fierce, making it a buyer’s market. To help you through this daunting experience, here are a few tips:

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  • THE SEARCH

    • Find the type of vehicle you want to purchase: websites, auctions, classified ads, reviews, on-line forums;
    • Locate the cars you’re interested in: selecting those within the Kelley Blue Book price range (you want to know the value of your current vehicle and the one you want to purchase);
    • Ask for a history report: this will tell you whether it’s had a regular car tune up schedule, been in an accident, or other important information;

  • THE EVALUATION

    • Ask questions. If buying from a dealership, ask about the documentation fee, or any other hidden charges. Is there a dealer’s guarantee, manufacturer’s warranty or extended warranty left on the car, and if so, is it transferrable? Does the car have a clean title?
    • Consider the mileage. The ideal used car mileage ranges from 10,000 to 15,000 per year.
    • Go for a ride—hit the brakes, listen to the road noise, gun it a little, check for unacceptable blind spots, drive over bumps, inspect it for dings, inspect tire tread, check for fluid leaks and exhaust smoke.
    • Evidence that the car may be in need of a tune up or major repairs: poor gas mileage, sluggish acceleration, rough idling or stalling, “check engine” light flashes or stays on.
    • Schedule an inspection with a certified auto mechanic if purchasing from a private party. If you’re purchasing from a dealer, an inspection and a car tune up has most likely been performed.

  • THE PURCHASE

    • Negotiate the price you want to pay and stick to it.
    • Do the paperwork. If buying from a private party, you will need to go the DMV with a bill of sale to register and transfer the title. A dealership will usually handle this for you.
If you need our assistance to inspect your “new” used car, 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 shop Princeton MN has served customers in Princeton MN and in the surrounding areas with Milaca MN automotive repair services and Zimmerman MN automotive repair services, Minnesota area.

Saturday, 2 July 2011

Tires: Incorrect or Correct Tire Repair?

One of the most distressing sights you may see when you are getting into your car could be flat tires. Not only do you have to change the flat before you can drive off, you will need a tire repair. To minimize potential deterioration started by the puncture, it’s a good idea to have it repaired immediately.

Most punctures are caused by small nails and screws less than ¼” in diameter. Generally, the manufacturer’s guidelines allow tire repair of punctures in tread in an area up to ¼” in diameter. However, in the case of larger tread punctures or punctures to the tire’s shoulder and sidewall areas, a replacement is strongly recommended.
Consider these 3 things when having punctures repaired:

  • Evaluate the size and scope -- Any tire repair attempted without removing it from the wheel is not correct. Punctures may look repairable from the outside, but when inspected from the inside, damage also may be found inside. Without taking if off, the damage would have been missed.
  • Re-establish an airtight seal of the tire’s innerliner – Typically, a mushroom-shaped patch and plug combination will reseal the innerliner effectively on a punctured steel belted radial.
  • Completely fill the path the object took through the tire -- A tire repair is complete only if it fills the path the object took. If the innerliner has been punctured, it must be cleaned, buffed, cemented, patched and coated to restore its ability to retain air. This can only be done from inside.

How do you know which procedures a mechanic uses? Ask them! A correct tire repair that follows the Rubber Manufacturer’s Association’s multi-step procedures will usually take about 30 minutes.

As a word of caution, driving on a damaged tire will cause further damage and deteriorate its strength over time. More importantly to consider, when driving at high speeds on an improperly repaired tire, it may suddenly fail, and cause loss of control of your vehicle.

For expert advice on tire repair, contact our ASE Certified Tire 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 auto shop Princeton MN, and in the surrounding areas of auto repair Milaca and auto repair Zimmerman, Minnesota.

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