Wednesday, December 18, 2019

How Often Do You Get Your Car Serviced?

how often do you get your car serviced


Are you confused by the different types of car services available and wondering how often do you get your car serviced?  All you know is that you want to avoid unexpected and costly car repair.  How do you do that, you ask?  What you ask for depends on what your car needs.  

First, there is a basic service package that is generally suggested every 6,000 miles or every 6 months. This typically includes oil changes, including the oil filter, and a check of the main components of the car, which means your brakes, tires, lights, and battery.  This will help ensure that you are aware of what your car may want and whether or not it is an urgent matter. 

Second, a full service is generally suggested every 12 months or every 12,000 miles. This includes everything that is in a basic service plus additional filter replacements; in-depth brake inspects and checks of the engine. This is especially vital if you think your car is not performing well. 

Third, a major service is generally suggested every 24 months or every 24,000 miles and is the most vital service that your car will receive--basically a complete overall inspect of the vehicle.  At this point, certain components and systems will have experienced wear and tear or even some damage.  In addition to the problems included in a full service, there are even more in-depth inspects, spark plugs changed, brake fluid, suspension check, and replacement of other filters. 

Why should you have your car serviced? Here are 5 good reasons:
  • Longer life expectancy. 
  • Avoid expensive car repairs
  • Save money on fuel.   
  • Retains good re-sale or trade-in value.
  • Insurance companies can use service history to determine pre-accident value. 
Are you wondering how often do you get your car serviced?  Call our ASE Certified technicians at Expert Car Care today for more information about car repair and to make an appointment. Our auto repair shop proudly serves residents in the community of West Allis, WI, and the surrounding area.

Friday, December 13, 2019

Why is Wheel Alignment Important?

why is wheel alignment important


If you’re wondering why is wheel alignment important for your vehicle, let’s first consider what will happen if your vehicle is not correctly aligned.  Here are four common problems you will start to notice:
  1. Uneven tread wear
  2. A steering wheel that is off-Centre when driving straight
  3. Car pulling off to the left or right
You might think you can wait a while to have the front alignment inspected, but if you wait too long, there will be significant repercussions, such as:  
  • You will have to replace your tires sooner than usual;
  • You will start having to fill up the fuel tank more often due to poor fuel economy; and
  • Damage could be occurring to other vehicle components, such as brakes, shocks, and suspension.
So why is wheel alignment important? Here are a few benefits of keeping your car in correct alignment:
  • Boosts your car’s handling and safety,
  • Increases fuel efficiency,
  • Tires are wearing unevenly,
  • The steering wheel feels loose or sloppy.
  • Extends the life of your tires.
  • The car pulls to one side or direction while driving straight,
  • Strange vibrations
Need to have the front alignment checked out on your car?  Call our ASE Certified technicians at Expert Car Care today for more information about wheel alignment and to make an appointment. Our auto repair shop proudly serves residents in the community of West Allis, WI, and the surrounding area.

Wednesday, November 20, 2019

Wondering what are the Symptoms of a Bad Battery?

what are the symptoms of a bad battery


The battery is the heart of your vehicle--without it, your vehicle doesn't have the power to start, move, or operate the accessories. The battery stores electrical power generated from the alternator while your car is running. It also sends electrical currents to the engine and other electrical components.  It is easy to just start up your car every day without any thought about the battery until all of a sudden, your vehicle won’t start.  Is the battery the culprit?

What are the symptoms of a bad battery?  
  1. Dim headlights. The headlights dim when they are not getting the power they want to shine as brightly as they should. If your headlights are not as bright as you remember them being before, you may want to consider having your battery inspected.
  2. The engine doesn’t crank or turn over and the lights don’t come on.  When you turn the key, the starter just clicks and is unable to turn the engine ended.  The lights and other electrical accessories don’t work at all.  It could be a permutation issue involving your alternator.
  3. Vehicle randomly starts one day then doesn’t the next.  If starting is an intermittent issue, two things are suspect, 1) battery terminals are loose, corroded, broken or 2) something is drawing electrical power from the battery even when the key is out of the ignition.
  4. Use jumper cables to start the engine.  Even after a jump start, the car battery doesn’t seem to get charged. 
Note to Remember:  A car battery replacement is relatively inexpensive when considering the stress and hazards of a roadside breakdown.

Do you want to know what are the symptoms of a bad battery?  Call our ASE Certified technicians at Expert Car Care today for more information about a car battery replacement and to make an appointment. Our auto repair shop proudly serves residents in the community of West Allis, WI, and the surrounding area.

Thursday, October 17, 2019

When Should You Get New Tires For Your Car?

when should you get new tires for your car


There are a few signs that are indicators as to when you should get new tires for your car, such as:

  • Uneven tread wear. This means the front tires may wear faster than the rear ones, or there is an irregular wear pattern on one of the front tires.
  • Unusual vibrations.  At speeds of 45 mph and upper, you may feel a vibration due to uneven tread wear. Your Vehicle tires may want to be rotated, balanced, or the wheels aligned.
  • Loss of air pressure.  If a tire is losing air faster than any of the others, it may have too much pressure put on it. The tires may want to be rotated, or a tire could want a repair for a small puncture.

Do you really want to have regular tire rotations?  Are you noticing uneven tread wear in many places on your tires?  Inexperienced drivers may not realize exactly what rotating tires even means.  Simply stated, a tire rotation service is moving the tires around to a different position on the vehicle so that the tread wears in an even pattern on all four tires.  For example, the front tires will be moved to the rear of the car and the rear tires to the front. 

Remember:  Most tire repair technicians recommend that tires be rotated about every 6,000 to 8,000 miles, or about every other oil change.  Remember that regular tire service is one of the most critical and important aspects of maintaining a safe vehicle.

Have questions about when should you get new tires for your car?  Call our ASE Certified technicians at Expert Car Care today for more information about tire rotations and other tire services and to make an appointment. Our auto repair shop proudly serves residents in the community of West Allis, WI, and the surrounding area.

Tuesday, October 1, 2019

Wondering What Does An Automotive Service Technician Do?

what does an automotive service technician do


How do you know if you are getting the best automotive repair potential when you take your vehicle to your favorite auto shop?  Most vehicle owners are aware that specialists change oil, repair tires and check brakes, but are you conscious of the extent of the training and knowledge that they acquire in order to become master technicians?  

Consider the typical work performed by a certified automotive repair specialist.   By knowing their expertise and training, you can have peace of mind knowing that your vehicle is taken care of by specialists!  

So what does an automotive service technician do?  

  • Uses specialized diagnostic equipment to recognize existing issues so that maintenance and repairs are done right the first time.
  • Knows maintenance checklists to ensure that all critical parts of your vehicle are thoroughly checked on a regular basis.
  • Endorses and performs vehicle maintenance at the right service intervals, including oil changes, tune ups, tire rotations; transmission flushes belts, A/C units, and much more.
  • Repairs worn-out parts, such as brake pads, wheel bearings, air filters, and much more.
  • It can disassemble, clean, and reassemble major vehicle parts, such as transmissions, radiators, and engines.
  • Receives specialized training to realize and repair computer-controlled auto electronic systems.
  • Knowledgeable about vehicles that run on alternative fuels, such as ethanol and electricity.
  • Knows how to explain to customers in easy-to-understand terms their vehicle issues, the automotive repair wanted, as well as the cost and time required.

Let your certified automotive repair technician take care of your vehicle so that you are driving as safely as potential!   

Do you know what does an automotive service technician do?  Call our ASE Certified technicians at Expert Car Care today for more information about our automotive repair services and to make an appointment. Our auto repair shop proudly serves residents in the community of West Allis, WI, and the surrounding area.

Monday, September 16, 2019

Wondering what does a Muffler do for Your Car?

what does a muffler do for your car


As long as your vehicle runs quietly, you may not give your muffler a second thought.  Many people don’t know exactly what their muffler does until it starts to sound like a roaring monster. Did you know that the muffler’s main job is to control engine noise?  Thus, noise is the biggest indication of muffler issues. 

So just how does a muffler work?  Inside a muffler are a set of perforated tubes.  These tubes reflect the sound waves produced by the engine to minimize the noise that eventually leaves your vehicle.  The exhaust, along with the sound waves, enters the muffler through a center tube bouncing off the back wall of the muffler and then pushed into the main body. Once in the main body of the muffler, they pass through a series of holes that takes them through the last chamber and out the exit pipe.

So what does a muffler for your car?  Here are two big reasons why a correctly working muffler and exhaust system are so vital:

  • Noise Control -- As your engine runs, it generates thousands of little sound bursts as highly pressurized gas is released. These sounds travel down the exhaust pipe.  If not for the muffler, these sounds would be very loud. Different types of mufflers will give you different sounds. Whether you want to make your vehicle as quiet as potential or get a deep growling sound, there is a muffler out there for you!
  • Performance Enhancement -- Mufflers are also used to increase the performance of your vehicle. Basically, the faster your engine can get rid of exhaust gases, the faster it can take in oxygen and generate more power.   Because noise levels of mufflers are strictly monitored, muffler experts have created many efficient designs that minimize exhaust exit time while still keeping in line with noise regulations.

Tip to Remember:  At the first sign of exhaust issues, such as a noisy muffler, decreased fuel mileage, or a bad odor, schedule a checkup as soon as potential to prevent bigger and more costly issues with your exhaust system.

Need to know more about what does a muffler do for your car?  Call our ASE Certified technicians at Expert Car Care today for more information about mufflers and exhaust systems and to make an appointment. Our auto repair shop proudly serves residents in the community of West Allis, WI, and surrounding area.

Saturday, August 17, 2019

You may asking, “Do I need to Replace Struts?”

do I need to replace struts


Whether your car has struts or automotive shocks, they are an important part of its suspension system. In a vehicle with a strut-type suspension, the struts are the “shock absorbers” mounted inside coil springs. They replace other types of automotive shocks, and they are usually used because they make suspension systems more affordable. They control the amount of bouncing created by bumps, dips, and peaks in the road and making a hard. 

So you may be asking, “Do I need to replace struts?”  Normally, struts don’t need to be replaced.  Though, struts can wear out.  The more you carry heavy loads or drive on rough roads, the faster the struts will wear, but they often last the life of a vehicle if you don’t abuse them.  

If your vehicle is bouncing up and down overly, or it bottoms out in potholes and over bumps, leaking fluid, or have become damaged, schedule a thorough checkup of the suspension system to find the source of the issue.  Bushings and other parts in the suspension, such as tie rods, control arms, and sway-bar links, can also wear out and cause loose steering, noise over bumps and more body lean in turns. Improper wheel alignment and uneven tire wear could also cause some of these issues.

Are you asking, “Do I need to replace struts?”  Call our ASE Certified technicians at Expert Car Care today for more information about automotive shocks, struts, and other suspension components and to make an appointment. Our auto repair shop proudly serves residents in the community of West Allis, WI, and surrounding area.

Wednesday, July 17, 2019

Wondering why Get a Tune Up for your Car?

why get a tune up for your car


Many vehicle owners may be wondering why get a tune up for your car.  With today’s computerized vehicles, is an auto tune up really compulsory?  A tune-up is identified as a major service in your owner’s manual and remains an important part of vehicle maintenance.  

So why get a tune up for your car?  Consider these 4 benefits of an auto tune up:

  1. Increases reliability -- Regular tune ups and service will reduce the risk of roadside breakdowns.  No matter the age of your car, tune up your car for long-term reliability.
  2. Saves fuel -- An auto tune-up is one of the best ways to increase your fuel efficiency.  A dirty air filter can cost you up to 20% of your fuel effectiveness! 
  3. Increases resale value -- A buyer will be more likely to purchase your car if you have detailed records of routine maintenance and repairs performed. Save receipts and proof of work done.
  4. Reduces emissions -- A poorly running car emits more toxic fumes into the environment.  A tune-up will reduce the number of emissions and pollutants your car produces.  

Are you having issues with engine performance or poor gas mileage? Call our ASE Certified technicians at Expert Car Care today for more information about the benefits of an auto tune up and to make an appointment. Our auto repair shop proudly serves residents in the community of West Allis, WI, and surrounding area.

Friday, June 28, 2019

What Car Maintenance is Necessary for summer?

what car maintenance is necessary


Summer has arrived in all its glory.  Do you know what car maintenance is necessary for summer?  Your car got you through the winter, but now you want to make sure it will not only keep you cool and relaxed through the hot days ahead but be as reliable as possible to prevent breakdowns and costly repairs. It isn’t a secret--just follow the vehicle maintenance schedule listed in your owner’s manual. 

Here are some of the most important vehicle maintenance items that should be taken care of on a periodic basis:
  • Every week or month
    • Dashboard Indicator/Warning Lights
    • Lights, exterior and interior
    • Condition of the tires
    • Windshield Washer Fluid
    • Engine Oil Level
  • Every 3 Months/ 3,000 Miles
    • Automatic Transmission Fluid
    • Battery and Cables
    • Engine oil and filter
    • Exhaust and muffler
    • Hoses and belts
    • Power Steering Fluid
  • Every 6 Months/6,000 Miles
    • Chassis Lubrication
    • Wiper Blades
  • Every 12 Months/ 12,000 miles
    • Brakes
    • Cabin Air Filter
    • Coolant
    • Steering and Suspension
    • Wheel Alignment
Do you want to know what car maintenance is necessary?  Call our ASE Certified technicians at Expert Car Care today for more information about the car maintenance schedule and to make an appointment. Our auto repair shop proudly serves residents in the community of West Allis, WI, and surrounding area.

Wednesday, June 19, 2019

Wondering What Happens If Your Muffler Falls Off?

exhaust system west allis wi


This is a scary question!  As you know, the muffler is a vital part of your vehicle’s exhaust system. Its job is to route toxic fumes away from the interior of the vehicle and out into the atmosphere. The entire exhaust system helps your engine maintain optimum performance and reduce pollution. 

So what happens if your muffler falls off?  Here are some things to know about driving with a bad muffler or no muffler at all:

  • If the muffler has a hole in it, carbon monoxide can leak into the passenger cabin and your vehicle is unsafe to drive. Carbon monoxide can cause dizziness, nausea, and headaches.  Unconsciousness and death can occur if you are exposed to this gas for a long period of time.
  • Many cities have noise ordinances that have limitations for mufflers. You could get pulled over because of excessive muffler noise.
  • If you hear a clunking sound while the vehicle is running, it is potential that a broken piece of the muffler may have come off and is rattling in the exhaust system.
  • Over times, mufflers will begin to show signs of wear as well as defects, such as rust or holes.
  • A bad muffler could start to emit unusual thick smoke from the exhaust, which can turn into a dangerous situation.

Remember:  If you start to notice any loud noises smoke coming from the muffler, or anywhere else in your car, it is advisable to have your vehicle inspected by a certified mechanic for safety as soon as possible!

Wondering what happens if your muffler falls off?  Call our ASE Certified technicians at Expert Car Care today for more information about exhaust systems and to Make an appointment. Our auto repair shop proudly serves residents in the community of West Allis, WI, and surrounding area.

Tuesday, May 14, 2019

How Do You Know When You Need New Brakes?


Ever wonder how do you know when you need new brakes?  One sure sign is if it is taking you are sliding to a stop at red lights even though you are pressing hard on the brake pedal.  If this is happening, it may be time for a brake replacement.    

Unfortunately, there is no stated schedule in your owner’s manual as to when brakes should be replaced.  It mainly depends on how your brakes are wearing, which is largely determined by your driving style and conditions.  

So how do you know when you need new brakes? Here are six obvious signs to watch out for:
  • Noisy brakes – Screeching sounds or a metal-on-metal grinding sound is created when the built-in wear sensors scrape against the brake disc when the pads need replacing. 
  • Vibrating – A warped disc will cause the brake pedal to pulsate under light or moderate braking.
  • Leaking brake fluid – A scorching smell while driving could mean brake fluid is leaking onto the hot motor.
  • Longer stopping distances – If you have to push the brake pedal down to the floor, it is taking you too long to come to a stop. Because brake linings wear gradually, it could reach the risky stage before you notice it.
  • Steering problems  If the steering wheel tugs or the car pulls to one side or the other while braking, the front brake pads are worn down too far.
  • Dash Warning light – Newer cars have electronic-wear indicators if the pads wear down to a specified measurement.  However, a visual checkup is still the best way to check the condition of your brakes.
Tip to remember:  Ask for a brake inspection at every tire rotation service (about every six months).

Wondering how do you know when you need new brakes?  Call our ASE Certified technicians at Expert Car Care today for more information about a brake replacement and to make an appointment. Our auto repair shop proudly serves residents in the community of West Allis, WI, and surrounding area.

Wednesday, April 24, 2019

Wondering How Often Do You Need Your Car Serviced?

how often do you need your car serviced


Like most motorists, you want to take good care of your vehicle and may wonder how often do you need your car serviced?  It is quite simple--follow the suggested maintenance schedule in the owner’s manual for your car.  Each service item will be listed along with the appropriate time or mileage interval that it should be taken care of.

There are two different ways in which you will be reminded as to when to get your car serviced:
  • Mileage-Based Service Intervals The service intervals for older cars are normally based on mileage. There are usually two different maintenance schedules listed in your owner’s manual--one for cars driven in “normal” operating conditions and one for cars driven in “severe” operating conditions.  Severe driving condition is normally defined as primarily short trips of five miles or less, extreme hot or cold climates, stop-and-go driving, towing a trailer or carrying heavy loads.  
  • In-vehicle Maintenance Reminder Systems Newer cars are now equipped with an in-vehicle maintenance reminder system.  This reminder system relieves the driver of watching odometer for a certain mileage. They take a number of car operating conditions into account and offer an alert on the dash when it is time for an engine oil change, fluid level checks, component checkups, and other vehicle maintenance services. 

Tip to Remember:  Find a reliable car repair shop and auto technician for basic vehicle maintenance before you really want them for a major car repair.

Wondering how often do you need your car serviced?  Call our ASE Certified technicians at Expert Car Care today for more information about our car repair services and to make an appointment. Our auto repair shop proudly serves residents in the community of West Allis, WI, and surrounding area.

Saturday, April 13, 2019

Wondering What causes the Check Engine light to come on?

check engine light west allis wi


Wondering what causes the Check Engine light to come on or start blinking all of a sudden?  Do you want to stop instantly and call a tow truck, or can you keep on driving to your destination?  This little warning light can mean various things, from a loose gas cap to a more serious misfiring engine. It could also be an indication that your vehicle is getting poor fuel economy and polluting the environment more than approved limits.  Though, the critical factor is to make sure that long-term damage is not taking place in your engine and that the driving safety of your vehicle is not compromised.

So, what causes the check engine light to come on?  When the electronic-control system finds an issue it cannot adjust, the vehicle’s computer stores a diagnostic trouble code in its memory and turns on a warning indicator light. This stored code helps your mechanic pinpoint the source of a potential issue.  It may simply be that a sensor is malfunctioning, or it could be more serious, such as low oil pressure or the engine overheating.  It can be caused by an issue in the ignition system, the fuel system, or damage to the internal components of the engine.

The best way to diagnose and repair an engine issue is to ask your mechanic to run a diagnostic test.  From the report generated, the issue can be confirmed and the required repair be performed.  Misdiagnosing or ignoring an engine issue can become very expensive later on.  To maintain driving safety, good fuel efficiency, and a longer life for your vehicle do not put off taking care of engine repair problems.

Need to know more about what causes the Check Engine light to come on?  Call our ASE Certified technicians at Expert Car Care today for more information about engine repair and to make an appointment. Our auto repair shop proudly serves residents in the community of West Allis, WI, and the surrounding area.

Friday, March 15, 2019

Are you wondering when should you replace tires?

Tires west allis wi


There are a few signs that are indicators as to when you should replace tires.  There are some factors that determine the lifetime of a tire.
  • Design of the tire, 
  • Driving habits, 
  • Climate, 
  • Road conditions, and 
  • Maintenance, such as periodic tire rotation.
As the miles add up on your tires, keep these tips in mind:
  1. Note 5 Years - After five years or so, make sure to have your tires thoroughly checked at least once a year by a tire repair technician.
  2. Maximum of 10 years - As a precaution, replace your tires after 10 years even if they appear to be in usable condition and have not worn down to the tread wear indicator. 
  3. Proper care - You can increase the lifetime of your tires by maintaining the correct air pressure, periodic tire rotation, and regular inspections for tread wear and damaged areas.
If you are starting to notice vibrations or other issues while driving, slow down and drive with caution until you can safely pull off the road.  If a tire is damaged, replace it with your spare and then drive to the nearest tire repair shop for a thorough inspection. Has your whole vehicle checked if you can’t identify the source of the vibration?  It could be an axle going bad.

Remember:  Tire maintenance is one of the most critical and important aspects for maintaining a safe vehicle.

Have questions about how when should you replace tires?  Call our ASE Certified technicians at Expert Car Care today for more information about tire rotation and other tire services and to make an appointment. Our auto repair shop proudly serves residents in the community of West Allis, WI, and the surrounding area.

Wednesday, March 13, 2019

Wondering when should transmission fluid be changed?

Transmission Fluid West Allis Wi


You may be wondering just what is the purpose of transmission fluid?  It keeps the surfaces and components of the transmission system lubricated to prevent excessive friction and overheating that would lead to transmission issues.  It also serves as a viscous fluid that transmits power from the engine to the transmission.  

So, when should transmission fluid be changed?  Technically, transmission fluid could remain in your vehicle without ever changing it.  Though, you will find that most auto repair mechanics advise that you should have a transmission flush about every 50,000 miles.  Over time, the components of transmission will wear out and start to present issues, such as the problems described below:
  1. Delayed Shifting.  There may be a temporary delay after you move the gear stick to reverse. The gear change cannot be activated instantly if there isn’t sufficient pressure. 
  2. Difficult or Erratic Shifting.  If there is a lot of dirt or residue in the transmission fluid, the gears will either change too fast or too slow. Other symptoms include abrupt up/down shifts, unusually high RPMs before a shift, erratic shifting, and groaning or grinding noise coming from the transmission.  
  3. Gear Slippage.  You may change gear, but then it appears to fall back out of that gear. The friction material on the clutches and transmission bands are no longer able to securely engage a gear. 
  4. Transmission Overheats.  In an automatic, the transmission fluid keeps the transmission unit from overheating.  If overheating occurs, pull over instantly and let everything cool down. If the temperatures get to be over 240°F, serious damage could have taken place inside the transmission unit.
Tip to Remember:  At least once a month, have the transmission fluid inspected to see if it has the appropriate level or it still effective.  If you put a lot of miles on your vehicle or tow heavy loads, have it inspected at least every two weeks. 

Wondering when should transmission fluid be changed?  Call our ASE Certified technicians at Expert Car Care today for more information about transmission repair and to make an appointment. Our auto repair shop proudly serves residents in the community of West Allis, WI, and the surrounding area.

Thursday, February 14, 2019

Do you know why oil changes are important?

oil change coupons west allis wi


If you need to keep your vehicle for a while, you should understand why oil changes are important.  It is crucial for the health of your engine, saving you money in the long run by preventing major repair.  You don’t save money by neglecting regular oil changes or by stretching out the suggested mileage interval because engine repair is far more expensive than regular oil changes.

Here are five problems to consider regarding oil changes:
  1. Understand the purpose of oil.  Oil lubricates the engine so that its parts don’t grind against each other; keeps the engine from overheating; and carries away dirt, dust, and other contaminants that would otherwise clog engine parts.
  2. Changing the Oil and Filter.  The oil change interval will vary depending on the model of your vehicle, its age, the type of oil used, and your driving conditions. It used to be usual to change oil every 3,000 miles, but with modern lubricants, many engines today have suggested oil change intervals of 5,000 to 7,500 miles. If your car requires full-synthetic motor oil, you may go as far as 15,000 miles between services!
  3. Dashboard Warning Light.   Several vehicles have the dashboard light programmed to come on automatically at 3,000-5,000 miles after the last oil change. Don’t rely on that light as in some cars, particularly older ones, that light might not come on until the level of oil is too low.  It’s vital to follow the manufacturer’s recommendation of oil change intervals listed in your owner’s manual.
  4. Viscosity of the Oil.  The viscosity codes (for example, 10W-40) tell you how viscous (how thick or how thin) the oil is in hot and cold weather. Again, it’s vital to follow the recommendations stated in the owner’s manual for the viscosity preferred in particular driving conditions.
  5. Conventional, Premium, and Synthetic Oils.  Typically, synthetic oil is required in certain high-tech engines.  Traditional engines will typically use conventional oil. Premium oil offers extra additives that may be useful for special driving wants. There are also blends that combine synthetic and premium conventional oils.  Be sure to ask your mechanic for recommendations on what is best for your vehicle.
Need to know more about why oil changes are important?  Call our ASE Certified technicians at Expert Car Care today for information about our oil change coupons and to Make an appointment. Our auto shop proudly serves residents in the community of West Allis, WI, and the surrounding area.

Wednesday, January 30, 2019

Wondering about How Often Should You Replace A Car Battery?

car battery replacement west allis wi

As one of the most vital parts of a vehicle, the battery powers a multitude of tasks and devices, from starting the engine to powering in-car computers.  Auto shop owners state that one of the top causes for roadside assistance is a dead car battery.  Most of the time, the battery is too old for the job it’s supposed to perform.

After 4 or 5 years, most car batteries will be almost completely untrustworthy.  It’s may be shocking to hear, but many batteries become inefficient within just 3 years in usual everyday conditions, even with correct maintenance.  This time of year it’s good to know that cold weather adds a two-fold strain on the battery by reducing its power output and by increasing the amps wanted to crank a cold engine.

So are you left wondering how often should you replace a car battery?  Consider these four problems when deciding if a car battery replacement might be compulsory:

  • Accessories that have important power demands, like headlights, may not function as well as they should.
  • Newer cars have powerful computers that are operating all the time, even when the car is turned off.  These computers can draw energy from the battery at a slow, stable rate. 
  • A battery could go from 90% performance to 20% over the course of a few months so have frequent inspections of your charging system.
  • Cars with stop-start technology often want a special battery as it ensures a greater strain than usual vehicles.

Note to Remember:  A car battery replacement is relatively cheap to avoid the stress and hazards of a roadside breakdown.

Do you need to know how often should you replace a car battery?  Contact our ASE Certified technicians at Expert Car Care today for more information about a car battery replacement and to make an appointment. Our auto repair shop proudly serves residents in the community of West Allis, WI, and the surrounding area.

Monday, January 21, 2019

Do you know How Often Should You Get An Alignment?

wheel alignment west allis wi


You may be wondering about the purpose of a wheel alignment?  The purpose is three-fold—to keep the steering at the original manufacturers’ settings; to aid inconsistent and even tire wear, and to assist in correct braking of your car.

It’s not a hard fast rule, but under usual driving conditions, a wheel alignment is suggested once or twice a year. Though, this recommendation is very flexible. If you drive often on particularly rough roads or are habitually hitting curbs, then you should possibly have your wheel alignment inspected more often.  Unfortunately, there’s no guaranteed length of time that your vehicle will stay in alignment. It can be simply put off with a single bump of a curb or the jolt of a large pothole.

Is a wheel alignment necessary when you get new tires?

The mounting of new tires can be a good opportunity to address alignment – especially if your old, dismounted tires are showing signs of uneven wear. Getting a wheel alignment will produce correct tire wear and longevity.

Do you want a front or four-wheel alignment?

This depends on your vehicle, and whether there are rear adjustments available on your vehicle.  If the front and rear alignment adjustments are probable, then you'll want a four-wheel alignment. The price difference between front and four-wheel alignment services is not significant.

Maintaining proper car alignment, along with regular tire rotations, will keep your vehicle aligned within O.M.E. specifications; will offer correct vehicle handling; and ensure optimum tire wear and longevity.

Money spent on a wheel alignment is money well invested incorrect car care, preventative maintenance, and vehicle safety.

Do you know how often you should get an alignment?  Contact our ASE Certified technicians at Expert Car Care today for more information about our car alignment services and to schedule an appointment. Our auto repair shop proudly serves residents in the community of West Allis, WI, and the surrounding area.