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.

Common Facts about Oil Changes!

Did you know that regularly scheduled oil changes are an important part of preventative vehicle maintenance? Heat is created through the friction caused by the parts of an engine as they work together in constant motion. An oil change keeps the oil and filter clean, so that these critical parts are kept lubricated, cleaned and cooled. Otherwise, the heat generated by that friction can melt the metal components of an engine together.

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Why are oil changes so important?

Dust, metallic shavings, condensation, and even antifreeze can contaminate motor oil. Even additives, which break down over time, are also subject to contamination. Just the normal wear and tear of driving generates heat that breaks down the oil so that it no longer effectively protects, cleans, cools, and lubricates the engine. Most manufacturers recommend a regular schedule for oil changes about every 3,000 miles to keep an engine protected from damage. This will help your engine running with greater fuel efficiency and protected from the damage of contaminants.

Is your car becoming difficult to start? Are you starting to hear strange new noises? These may be signs that an oil change is due. An auto mechanic will generally inspect the over-all condition of your vehicle during an oil change service. They can keep you informed of any other auto repairs that may be looming in the near future, recommended at a certain mileage point, or possibly even urgent right now. Having regular oil changes will increase the efficiency of the operation of your vehicle, save you money, and prolong the life of your vehicle.

If you’re looking for reputable and money-saving oil changes, 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 and to find our oil change coupons. We are now 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.