Urbandale Auto Repair

How to Tell You Have a Blown Gasket The best way to discover something in your car has gone awry is by turning off the radio for a short while during a drive. Then you’ll be able to detect any odd car sounds as well as allow yourself to be more observant to the feel of your car – how hard do you have to pull on your steering wheel, how far are you pressing your brake pedal before your car slows down, how easily is your gear shift changing? If you notice any difference in these operations or find that there are squealing, grinding, or rattling noises occurring, then it is best to take your vehicle in to a professional mechanic immediately. These small symptoms, if caught early enough, can save you hundreds or thousands on later repairs or component replacements if left unchecked. Signs that your engine may be having trouble could be symptomatic of a blown head gasket. It is easiest to tell if this may be what is happening beneath your vehicle’s hood if you notice any o ... read more

To avoid getting stranded, have your battery inspected or replaced every three years. No one wants to get stuck with an inoperable car battery. For many people, this annoyance can seem like it always comes out of nowhere. Since the car battery doesn’t give many obvious outward signs of decay, non-attentive car owners truly can get stranded. As a general rule of thumb, get a new battery for your car every three years. Otherwise, pay attention to these warning signs. Indicators You May Need a New Battery Low Fluid: A portion of your battery case is translucent to allow for the inspection of your fluid level. If the fluid falls below the lead plates on the inside — the location of the energy conductors - then it's likely time for a replacement. Check Engine Light: Your check engine light can indicate many things. Low battery life serves as one of these. When you take your car in to get it checked, make sure your battery gets some attention. Battery Leakage: A leaky batte ... read more

The Importance of Replacing Fuel and Air Filters Car maintenance and upkeep can become costly if you let it. That is why many people look for ways to cut down on their repair costs. A lot of the time, this leads to refusing services that seem unimportant or redundant. When you hear "filter replacement" you may think that it is not important. However, replacing your fuel and air filters are far more important than you know. Air and Fuel Filters Your vehicle is run by an internal combustion engine. In order to function, it needs fuel to create the energy used in vehicular motion. This fuel will either be gas or diesel, depending on your vehicle. Your fuel is then mixed in a proper ratio with air to create combustion and get your vehicle moving. When fuel and air are put into your vehicle, many different contaminants can be pulled with them. These contaminants, like dust, dirt, worn metal flakes, and more, can travel through your car and cause immense widespread damage, even r ... read more

With summer quickly approaching, everyone is busy getting their vacation plans together and ensuring their home is prepared for the hotter temperatures. However, do you know if your car’s AC is ready? A vehicle’s air conditioning is a system that has a tricky set of rules when it comes to service. Mostly, when you are no longer comfortable in your car or your air conditioner is not blowing as coldly as it should, it is time for service. This is not a very concrete set of rules, and you may want some definitive signs to keep a look out for. Signs Your AC Needs Service #1 Your AC Is Not Blowing Or Sounding Funny This is two different situations that can arise within your car’s AC. You turn on your air conditioner to cool down your car and, to your surprise, nothing comes out of the vents. Another situation is that your AC takes a while to come on, but when it does it makes a lot of strange noises. These are both s ... read more

Our car transmissions are essential to having our cars work properly. Unfortunately, there are a lot of things that can cause transmission damage. Having the proper knowledge can ensure your transmission is always in good condition. If you think your car’s transmission is on the fritz, here are 4 things that could be damaging it. Not Servicing Your Transmission Transmission damage can occur when we don’t get the proper servicing. By taking your car in to get serviced, a professional mechanic will be able to give your transmission the maintenance it needs. Your Transmission Fluids Are Low Our car transmissions need to be well lubricated in order for them to work efficiently. If there is not enough transmission fluid, then you will eventually have transmission damage. Too Little, Too Late Your check engine light comes on, your car is exhibiting signs of overworking, and yet you have not taken it in. If for some reason car repairs are ignored, it can lead to transmission ... read more

With the new year here, people are making resolutions to better or enjoy themselves more in 2017. Do you have a resolution yet? Consider making 2017 the year of road safety. Winter is not a car friendly time, so what better time to start than now? Keeping your car prepared and yourself ready during this season can protect you from the worst winter can throw your way. How do you prepare? We have compiled a short checklist of ways to keep your car in top shape this winter season. Winter Car Checklist Check Your Fluids Checking everything from your windshield wiper fluid to your oil can really keep your car in top condition. Make sure you have enough in your vehicle and if fluid levels are low, have your local auto mechanic service the vehicle. You may inquire regarding winter windshield fluid and oil. Both are designed for optimal performance during colder temperatures. Is It Time for New Tire ... read more