Michigan Auto Repair

Road trips are not just a lot of work for the traveler; they take a toll on your car. If you're wondering whether or not you should get your car checked before a long trip, the answer is almost always yes. Here's why. What Can Go Wrong? When you're driving for long periods of time, your car is more susceptible to potential damages and incidents. Here are the most common car issues that arise during road trips: Tire blowouts Leaks Brake problems Inability to start the car Low fluid levels Malfunctioning lights Clogged filter or air conditioner Not only do these problems slow down your car and inconvenience you during a trip, but they're downright dangerous. In the best-case scenario, a worn-down brake pad, an old car battery or a broken light could result in a ticket. In a worst-case scenario, these things could lead to a car accident. Elements like a clogged air filter or broken air conditioner will make the environment within the car less comfortable, and comf ... read more

If you are a car owner, you have most likely been told that changing the oil regularly is important because it ensures that your engine is always running efficiently, which can improve the lifespan of your car. But is this claim factual or just another industry hype? For us to answer this question, we need to understand what oil does. Engine oil is responsible for cooling the engine and lubricating the moving components of the engine. Therefore, if your engine oil is inadequate or degraded, you can expect the engine to overheat and its moving parts to wear out more rapidly, which will consequently shorten the life of your car. Below are some of the ways in which regular oil change can benefit your car. Improved Lubrication The engine has so many moving parts. These parts need to be properly lubricated for the engine to perform efficiently. Poor lubrication causes more friction, which causes the moving parts to wear out more quickly, and consequently cost you more in repairs. The fast ... read more

Modern vehicles are equipped with numerous safety features such as seat belts and airbags. There are even rear-view cameras that can make blind spots more visible while you’re backing up. However, there is one safety feature that is more important than the others – the brake system. A healthy brake system ensures your vehicle can stop precisely when you need them to. The moment you notice any impact in performance, have your brakes inspected right away. Strong brake performance can potentially save a life, so drivers need to recognize the signs of brake trouble. Below are three common brake symptoms that indicate it’s time to schedule a service.  Unusual Sounds One of the first signs of brake trouble is a loud squealing or grinding noise. Most drivers may notice these sounds when they’re slowing down or backing up. Your brakes are designed to inform you when they’re starting to wear. If the brake pads have worn down to the ... read more

Most drivers are aware that vehicles need oil changes every 5,000-7,500 miles. However, most people aren't entirely sure when the power steering fluid should be changed. The power steering fluid is forgotten altogether, even though it's a significant aspect of a healthy steering wheel. The power steering fluid may take a backseat in most driver's minds unless there's a problem. The power steering fluid is a hydraulic fluid that transmits power into the steering system. The power steering fluid doesn't burn away as oil does; it gets dirty and polluted over time. Contaminated power steering fluid puts stress on the power steering pump, causing it to work harder and eventually lead to failure. Is it time to change the power steering fluid? Below are three ways to tell if it's time to schedule an appointment.   Dark Fluid After running your car for a few minutes, pop the hood and pull out the dipstick. The power steering fluid should be ... read more

You return to your parked car only to find a puddle of dark liquid underneath. Oil leaks are easy to spot. However, returning to an oil leak can be daunting—possibly the source of a significant issue. If an oil leak goes unrepaired, major damage can happen to the engine. There are several reasons a vehicle will leak engine oil; below are the six most common reasons.  The Oil Filter is Bad. Oil filters should be changed every three months or 3,000 miles, whichever comes first. Oil filters are usually changed during oil changes, but problems can occur if you neglect to do them. A dirty oil filter will not filter out oil pollutants. Additionally, if the oil filter was misplaced during an oil change, a leak may occur.  The Drain Plug is Worn. The drain plug is found at the bottom of the oil pan. It’s how automotive technicians drain the oil. If a drain plug is misaligned or worn down, oil can drip through it.   Th ... read more