How Do You Know If You Need Your Oil Changed?

Changing the oil in your car is generally a quick and relatively inexpensive service. Some drivers underestimate what timely oil changes can do for their car.  Good, clean oil increases the performance level and extends the life of the engine.  However, over time, the fluid breaks down and becomes ineffective in doing its job. So why do so many people procrastinate when it comes to oil changes?

How do you know if you need your oil changed?  A lot of drivers rely solely on mileage, but there are other factors to consider as well, such as the quality of the oil, the age of the car and how the car is driven. 

Here are 6 common signs that it’s time for an oil change:

1. Oil Change Light -- The oil change light in your car will illuminate when there’s not enough oil in the system so check the dipstick. The check engine light will illuminate for extreme issues, warning that the engine is at risk of damage.
2. Engine Noise and Knocking -- Oil provides a protective layer between engine parts, avoiding metal-to-metal contact and keeping the engine quiet. If the oil has lost its effectiveness, you may hear knocking sounds indicating that the engine is not being lubricated correctly.
3. Dark, Dirty Oil -- Clean oil is amber in color and slightly translucent. Over time, it becomes filled with particles collected from the engine and turns darker. It’s not obvious when this begins to happen, so check the oil at least once a month. If you cannot see the dipstick through the oil, it is time for an oil change.
4. Oil Smell Inside the Car -- If you smell oil inside the car, it can often signify an oil leak. If you also smell gas or exhaust fumes, the engine may be overheating. 
5. Exhaust Smoke -- Some translucent vapor will always come out of the muffler, but if this changes to smoke, it’s time for an engine check-up. you may have faulty engine parts or an oil leak.
6. Excessive Mileage -- If you travel a lot of miles on a regular basis you may want oil change sooner than the normal schedule.  Check your owner’s manual for specific guidelines.

Fresh, clean oil optimizes your vehicle’s performance by lubricating parts and keeping the engine clean and healthy as well as preventing excessive wear and tear on your engine, resulting in fewer repairs down the road.

Are you wondering how do you know if you need your oil changed?  Call our ASE Certified Technicians at Clausen Automotive, The Hybrid Shop, for more information about how to find their oil change coupons and to make an appointment. Since 1975, our family-owned auto shop has proudly served car owners in Madison, WI, and the surrounding communities.

Wondering when to Do Maintenance on Your Car?

Many drivers, you want to take good care of your vehicle and may wonder when to do maintenance on your car?  The first thing to do is to find your owner’s manual.  The next thing to do is to read it!  The third thing to do to take good care of your vehicle is to follow the suggested vehicle maintenance schedule listed in that manual. 

Fortunately, for those of us who are challenged when it comes to reading our vehicle service guide, there are two other ways in which you may be reminded as to when to do maintenance on your car:

• In-vehicle Maintenance Reminder Systems Newer cars normally have an in-vehicle maintenance reminder system that makes mileage-based schedules obsolete. These reminder systems take a number of vehicle operating conditions into account and provide an alert on the dash when it is time for an engine oil change, fluid level inspects component checks and other car maintenance services.  These systems have been found to be fairly accurate as to when service should be performed.
• Mileage-Based Maintenance Service Intervals Older cars have service intervals based on mileage. There are generally two different maintenance schedules listed in the manual--one for cars driven in “normal” operating conditions and another for “severe” operating conditions.  The definition of “severe” mainly means short trips of 5 miles or less, extreme climates, stop-and-go driving, towing a trailer or carrying heavy loads.  In addition to reading your owner’s manual to know those mileage intervals, your auto technician can give you sound advice as to when to do maintenance on your car.

Tip to Remember:  Plan ahead for car maintenance items by finding an auto shop and auto technician for small problems so you know you can trust them for the bigger service items or repairs that will come up down the road!

Wondering when to do maintenance on your car?  Call our ASE Certified Technicians at Clausen Automotive, The Hybrid Shop, for more information about preventative car maintenance and to make an appointment. Since 1975, our family-owned auto repair shop has proudly served vehicle owners in Madison, WI, and the surrounding communities.

What are the Signs of Engine Failure?

If you’re experiencing issues with the performance of your vehicle, ask your auto mechanic what to do to help restore its power and trustworthiness.  Some good advice is to take care of all engine service items when suggested by your mechanic.   This will help keep your vehicle running strong and prevent unexpected and expensive engine repairs.  

So just what are the signs of engine failure?  Of course, the “Check Engine” light is your first hint.  When this little warning light comes on, many drivers become fearful of what might be happening under the hood.  If at all possible, head to your auto shop for a diagnostic service.   Your auto mechanic can then pinpoint what and where something is going wrong.  

In addition to the “check engine” light, here a few other common signs of engine failure: 

1. Loss of Power -- Combustion engines convert gasoline into the power needed to make your vehicle go. There could be a glitch in the combustion process. 
2. Decreased Fuel Economy -- There could be a problem in the compression stroke of the engine. 
3. Noisy Engine -- Knocking, backfiring, hissing, spitting and popping during the ignition process can occur when there is an abnormality in the combustion flow.
4. Stalling -- The intake stroke is not receiving the right spark or air/fuel mixture. 
5. Odors -- A noxious odor from the exhaust may be detected if the exhaust stroke of your internal combustion engine is starting to fail. 
6. High-performance Engines Don’t Turn Off -- This commonly happens when the octane in the gas is incorrect, a solenoid is failing, or the carburetor wants an adjustment.
7. Engine Run Rough -- This is usually caused by clogs in the system, old spark plugs, an improper octane level, or a low battery.

Are you looking for a quality engine service?  Call our ASE Certified Technicians at Clausen Automotive, The Hybrid Shop, for more information about recommended engine service and to make an appointment. Since 1975, our family-owned auto repair shop has proudly served vehicle owners in Madison, WI, and the surrounding communities.

How Often Should You Get New Tires On Your Car?

Some drivers may not think about the condition of their tires as long as they are still able to drive their vehicles. Inappropriately, if their tires are not in good shape, they could be endangering themselves and their passengers. Statistics say that nearly 11,000 tire-related accidents happen every year, many of them because of tire failure.  

There are 3 main signs indicating a needed tire repair:

• Uneven tread wear. This means one or more tires may wear faster than the others, or there are is an irregular wear pattern on one of the tires. 
• Vibration.  At speeds of 45 mph and upper, you may feel a vibration due to uneven tread wear. 
• Deflation.  If a tire is losing air faster than any of the others, it may have too much pressure put on it.

So how often should you get new tires on your car?  Most tire manufacturers to provide the specific lifespan of tires so that drivers know about how many tires a new tire should last, normally,  about 50,000 miles.

Of course, the actual life of your tires depends on some factors:

• The quality of the tire. 
• Is it a performance summer tire?
• Treadwear rating, i.e., the predictable length of tread life.
• How the car is driven. 
• The type of vehicle and how the tire is mounted. 

Wondering how often should you get new tires on your car?  Call our ASE Certified Technicians at Clausen Automotive, The Hybrid Shop, for more information about our tire repair services and to make an appointment. Since 1975, our family-owned auto repair shop has proudly served vehicle owners in Madison, WI, and the surrounding communities.

When Does a Muffler Need to be Replaced?

Are you wondering about when does a muffler need to be replaced?  If so, you may already be experiencing issues with your vehicles exhaust system.  To keep your vehicle running smoothly with the power you need, all of its components need to work together in harmony.  So when you schedule a car checkup, be sure to include the exhaust system. 

Even today’s newer cars have mufflers as part of their exhaust systems.  As long as cars have combustion engines, they will require some type of exhaust and muffler system.  A muffler not only reduces the noise level created by the engine, but it also plays a major role in diffusing the toxic fumes away from the passenger cabin.  Thus, it is just as vital to keep up on regular maintenance for your muffler as for the rest of your car.  

So when does a muffler need to be replaced?  An inspection by your auto mechanic will let you know if the muffler needs to be replaced, or it a simple repair will take care of an existing issue.  Here a few things to keep an eye on:

1. Increase in the exhaust noise level - Your car should run relatively quiet when the muffler is working correctly. If something is wrong, the noise level will increase dramatically.
2. Reduced gas mileage - Well-tuned exhaust systems typically produce the best fuel efficiency. If your driving habits haven’t changed but you're filling up your tank more often than usual, there could be an issue with your muffler.
3. The smell of exhaust fumes - Your muffler should be funneling the exhaust fumes outside and away from your car; but if they're going inside the car, there could be a leak in your exhaust system. Have your car’s exhaust system checked out as soon as possible. 

Are you wondering when does a muffler need to be replaced?  Call our ASE Certified Technicians at Clausen Automotive for more information about the exhaust system and to make an appointment. Since 1975, our family-owned auto repair shop has proudly served car owners in Madison, WI, and the surrounding communities.

Do you know what’s included in a Full Car Service?

Most of us fear to have to schedule a full car service because of the money and time it takes.  We may keep delaying it for a month, or two, or three, or indefinitely, waiting to see if there might be a leftover in the monthly budget to cover the cost.  Inappropriately, this could lead to an extensive car repair; costing us much more than if we had taken care of the suggested car service in the first place.  Although your car won’t look any different after spending several hundred dollars on a full car service, it will certainly run more efficiently with increased performance and fuel efficiency.

So what’s included in a full car service? Take a look below:

• Oil change: Black dirty oil is replaced with clean oil.
• Replace filters: Oil, air, fuel and pollen filters are all replaced.
• Replace spark plugs: Replaced to maximize fuel economy.
• Brakes Checked: They can be cleaned and adjusted if compulsory.
• Fluids flushed: Most all fluids, which include the transmission, clutch, brake, power steering and coolant fluids should be flushed and replaced.  
• Road test: Picks up issues that can’t be detected easily just by checking the engine.
• Safety inspection: To make sure all the systems and sensors are working correctly so you can have confidence in your car.
• Car Battery: Make sure your battery is still holding a charge, and that the alternator is working correctly to keep it charged.
• Other checks: Your auto mechanic should check out anything else that can be seen or touched, including the transmission repair, radiator, differential oil, shocks or struts, wiper blades, lights, just to name a few.

There are two reasons why it’s vital to schedule a full car service at the suggested interval:

• Your mechanic can let you know what is starting to wear out, what should be replaced right away or what can wait, and what’s looking great. 
• Your car will remain a reliable and safe source of transportation, allowing you to drive with peace of mind. 

Need to know more about what’s included in a full car service?  Call our ASE Certified Technicians at Clausen Automotive, The Hybrid Shop, for more information about car repair and service items and to Schedule an appointment. Since 1975, our family-owned auto repair shop has proudly served car owners in Madison, WI, and the surrounding communities.

Wondering How Often Should a Car Battery be Replaced?

Wondering how often should a car battery be replaced?  If you are, more than likely you have started to experience starting issues and it’s time to consider a car battery replacement.  When a battery fails it’s generally not at a convenient time or place.  Did you know that dead batteries are one of the top reasons for roadside assistance calls?  

So, how often should a car battery be replaced?  Batteries will become worn down and inefficient within 3 years of everyday use in usual conditions. Just like your computer or smart-phone battery becomes less efficient with every charge, so your car battery gradually deteriorates every time it’s charged up by the vehicle’s engine. 

After 4 or 5 years, most car batteries will be almost completely unreliable and can present a number of safety and reliability problems.  Consider the following problems:

• Auto electrical system --  Although your car can still start with a battery that is failing, features that have significant power demands, like headlights, may not function as well as they should.
• Battery drain -- Many new cars have powerful computers that are operating all the time, even when the car is parked and switched off.  These computers can draw energy from your car’s battery at a slow, stable rate, wearing it down over time. 
• Stop-start technology -- Cars with engines that are designed to automatically switch off when at a standstill place a greater straining on their batteries than normal cars, and often want a special battery.

Before you get stranded with a dead battery, be proactive and ask your mechanic to check your battery periodically.  It could go from 90% performance to 20% over a short period of time.   Your mechanic can tell you if yours is getting close to the end.  The small price of a car battery replacement is worth it to avoid the stress of a roadside breakdown.

Wondering how often should a car battery be replaced?  Call our ASE Certified Technicians at Clausen Automotive, The Hybrid Shop, for more information about car battery replacement and to make an appointment. Since 1975, our family-owned auto repair shop has proudly served car owners in Madison, WI, and the surrounding communities.

Wondering do bad axles affect shocks?

Does it seem like the “ride” of your vehicle is getting worse faster than it should.  You may wonder if your car shocks are going bad or if the car axles are bad.  Are you wondering do bad axles affect shocks?  Some drivers may not associate bad axles with the condition of their car shocks. 

You may be wondering just what is the purpose of car axles?  Axles are the rods that transfer power from the transmission to the wheels. Axles also serve to bear the weight of the vehicle plus its passengers and cargo. 

It is vital to be aware of the critical function of drive axles and have them checked regularly. Though perhaps not as commonly understood, axles are as important to a properly functioning vehicle and vehicle safety as the engine, steering system, brakes, and tires are.

It is time for specialists to inspect your vehicle if you encounter one of the following indicators of axle damage.

1. Excessive vibrations:  Excessive vibrating may be accompanied by an unusual rumbling noise underneath the vehicle, strange tire wobbling, or sluggish driving and steering. This will cause other problems with car shocks, handling, comfort, and safety.
2. Loud Clunking:  If you hear unusually loud clunking as you change gears, or if your vehicle lacks power as you start driving, there may be axle-joint damage. This type of noise is an indicator that the transmission is unable to transfer power adequately to the wheels due to slack in the joints, or a transmission failure
3. Leaking Grease:  This can mean a leaking axle boot, which is the rubber cover over the drive axle joint. Dirt can enter a joint through a broken joint cover and cause failure to the axle joint and/or axle. 
4. Running in Place:  If your vehicle runs, but can’t move forward even though it starts fine, goes into gear, and has a normal engine sound, it likely has a broken axle.

You don’t have to put up with these problems any longer than it takes to get your vehicle to an auto repair shop so that it can be repaired by a reputable technician.

Are you wondering about do bad axles affect shocks?  Call our ASE Certified Technicians at Clausen Automotive, The Hybrid Shop, for more information about car shocks and to make an appointment. Since 1975, our family-owned auto repair shop has proudly served vehicle owners in Madison, WI, and the surrounding communities.

How does Wheel Balancing Affect Alignment?

This is a good question for drivers to ask as it means that they are aware that both correct wheel alignment and tire balancing are compulsory for the well-being of your tires, as well as the safety of your vehicle.  Tire balancing should be performed more frequently, while a wheel alignment service is not needed as often. 

So, does wheel balancing affect alignment?  Not necessarily.  Though, because the symptoms of misalignment and lost balancing are so similar, it is difficult to know which one might be the issue leading to damaged tires, suspension, and steering issues.  

How does a tire get out of balance, you ask?  Imperfections in the rubber and damage to a tire or rim can throw a wheel "out of balance."  Treadwear also causes the distribution of weight around the tire to change. This leads to an imbalance that causes the vehicle to shake. To balance a tire, the technician removes the tire from the vehicle and spins it on a calibrated balance.  A small lead weight is then attached to the tire to counter-balance any heavy spots.  Tire balancing is usually performed when tires are rotated, which is typically every 5-6,000 miles.

What if your car is out of alignment?  While tire wear prevention is a good reason to keep your wheel alignment in check, the penalties of misalignment can also play out in overall vehicle performance. A wheel alignment service includes checking the tread for uneven wear and an of the “toe, camber, and caster” which are the three components for measuring wheel orientation.  Then, the angle of the wheels will be adjusted to the position matching the manufacturer’s suggested specification.  Most manufacturers recommend having the alignment inspected every 10,000 miles.  

Whether your wheels are out of alignment, or the tires have lost a balance weight, watch for these signs:

• Vehicle pulls to the left or right
• Uneven or rapid tire wear 
• The Steering wheel is crooked, feels “loose,” or vibrates
• Squealing or wobbly tires

Wheel alignment and tire balancing service are well worth the little bit of time and money to protect your tire investment and enhance the safety of your vehicle.

Are you wondering how does wheel balancing affect alignment?  Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Clausen Automotive, The Hybrid Shop, for more information about car alignment and tire balancing services and to make an appointment. Since 1975, our family-owned auto repair shop has proudly served car owners in Madison, WI, and the surrounding communities.

Wondering How Often Should You Take Your Car in for Maintenance?

Summer has arrived in all its glory.  You had your car serviced last fall, but now you may be wondering just how often should you take your car in for maintenance.  You want to make sure your vehicle is as trustworthy as the potential for the hot days ahead to prevent breakdowns and costly repairs. This means that you should follow the car maintenance schedule listed in your owner’s manual.

Some years ago, Kelton Research published a study that is still true today.  It shows that nine-in-ten American car owners believe they maintain their vehicles correctly.  However, only 41 percent actually follow the manufacturer’s vehicle maintenance recommendations.  The study further reports that less than one in four (23 percent) of car owners work with a certified mechanic to develop a plan for ongoing vehicle maintenance.  From these statistics, it is easy to deduce that there are a lot of vehicles on the road that is greatly in need of some type of auto repair. 

Here are several of the most important vehicle maintenance items:

• 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 (Antifreeze)
• Steering and Suspension
• Wheel Alignment

Preserve the investment you made in your vehicle!  Taking care of your car could be one of the wisest economical decisions you make.

Wondering how often should you take your car in for maintenance?  Call our ASE Certified Technicians at Clausen Automotive, The Hybrid Shop, for more information about the car maintenance schedule and to Make an appointment. Since 1975, our family-owned auto repair shop has proudly served car owners in Madison, WI, and the surrounding communities.

Wondering is a Tune Up Necessary?

Even with today’s newer cars and advanced technology, the answer to this question is “Yes!  Most vehicle manufacturers recommend a tune up service at around 100,000 miles.  Your mechanic can test the performance of your vehicle to determine just what is needed in a car tune up service.

Is your car slow when trying to go up a hill or passing a slower vehicle? Has a dashboard light come on and you don’t know why?  Before summertime’s hot temperatures are here in full force, be sure to get a car tune up now to make sure your vehicle is in tip-top shape. 

Because today’s vehicles are designed with computer processors, microchips and sensors, the best way to determine whether your car wants a tune up is to ask your auto mechanic to run a car diagnostic test.  This is done using a specialized computer that scans the sensors and operating systems, producing codes which will indicate a current or a pending issue.

So is a tune up necessary? The tune-up checklist should include both preventative and restorative engine assessments, including a checkup of the engine, an analysis of your vehicle’s performance, and any needed adjustments made to the operating systems. 

Here is a car tune up checklist:

• Spark plugs.
• Fuel pump and filter.
• Fuel injectors.
• Timing.
• PCV valve.
• Points and condenser.

There is not a one-size-fits-all car tune up procedure.  It will be uniquely based on your vehicle’s age, the number of miles driven, and its maintenance history.  

Wondering is a tune up is still necessary?  Call our ASE Certified Technicians at Clausen Automotive, The Hybrid Shop, for more information about a car tune up and to Make an appointment. Since 1975, our family-owned auto repair shop has proudly served vehicle owners in Madison, WI, and the surrounding communities.

Wondering How Often Do Radiators Need To Be Replaced?

A vital part of our vehicle that we often overlook is the radiator. Your radiator was stressed during winter’s cold temperatures as the coolant froze, expanded, thawed, and then froze again.  This can lead to cracks and leaks, resulting in damage to the transmission.   Before heading out on a summer road trip, schedule a vehicle checkup and avoid an emergency radiator repair in a strange town.  

Your radiator is working any time the engine is running. This is because coolant constantly cycles through to prevent overheating. It’s still technically on the job even when the engine is off, too, as it holds a significant amount of the coolant in the engine.  Without a working radiator, your engine would quickly overheat, probably causing catastrophic damage to your vehicle

So, how often do radiators need to be replaced?  Radiators’ do have a limited lifespan, but there’s no set number of years. A lot will depend on how well you maintain the coolant system. It should last for many years. 

Knowing the signs of a failing radiator can help prevent an urgent radiator repair, including:

• Coolant leaking on the ground under the radiator (this could also indicate a leak at a hose, the drain cock locations)
• Damaged fins on the radiator
• Temperature gauge rises quickly past normal operating temperature (this can also indicate low coolant, the air in the lines and other issues)
• Rust in the coolant
• Cracks in the plastic (many modern radiators are plastic, rather than metal)

Damage to the radiator can cause a ripple effect throughout the car, resulting in damage to the engine.  What could have been a minor radiator repair could turn into a major engine job!

Wondering how often radiators need to be replaced?  Call our ASE Certified Technicians at Clausen Automotive, The Hybrid Shop, for more information about radiator repair and to make an appointment. Since 1975, our family-owned auto repair shop has proudly served vehicle owners in Madison, WI, and the surrounding communities.

Wondering what are the Signs of a Bad Starter?

You head out the door to work and your car won’t start.  Is it an issue with the battery, the alternator, or the starter?  How do you know which one?  You wish you had paid more attention when your mechanic had discussed the signs of a bad starter with you a few weeks ago. 

The starter system was designed for repeated use under a variety of weather and road conditions. But the wear and tear of daily use, extreme conditions, and poor maintenance can all create issues.  

Though, your starting issue may not be the starter. It could be that the battery is not holding the charge wanted to start your vehicle, or maybe you left your headlights on all night. Or maybe the battery has reached the end of its life and just wants to be replaced.  

Another reason for your car not starting could be a bad alternator that’s not keeping the battery charged.  A big sign that your alternator is bad is if the warning light on your instrument panel is on. Your vehicle is possibly running strictly off the battery which will cause it to go dead in no time.

There are some signs of a bad starter: 

1. Your vehicle cranks slowly or labors to crank when starting.
2. Your vehicle won’t start at all.
3. Starting issues are intermittent.
4. The interior lights dim when you try to start the car. 
5. You hear grinding noise when the car is starting or running.
6. A burning smell or smoke is coming from underneath the hood. 
7. The starter is soaked with oil. 

Don’t’ take a chance of getting stranded somewhere, but ask your mechanic to check your car’s starter, battery and alternator as soon potential.

Want to know more about what are the signs of a bad starter?  Call our ASE Certified Technicians at Clausen Automotive, The Hybrid Shop, for more information about batteries, starters, and alternators and to make an appointment. Since 1975, our family-owned auto repair shop has proudly served car owners in Madison, WI, and the surrounding communities.

Wondering what are the Symptoms of a Bad Transmission?

The transmission is subjected to heat and stress on a day-to-day basis, so even if all seems well and you are still able to drive your car, it is important to know what are the symptoms of transmission issues.  If you want your vehicle to keep running for a long while and prevent major transmission repair, it is crucial to follow the service intervals recommended in your owner’s manual (normally every 60,000 to 100,000 miles).  

What are the symptoms of a bad transmission?

• Shifting Issues:  It is hard to move the shifter into another gear, it seems to “pop” out of gear, or it simply refuses to shift at all.  You may hear a “whining” sound and thumping sounds, or jerking when you try to shift.
• Transmission warning light:  A warning light alone doesn’t necessarily mean you have a transmission issue.  But if in conjunction with any of the shifting issues above, you may be looking at a pending transmission repair.
• Transmission completely fails:  Your car won’t move.

If you are noticing any of the issues above, ask your transmission repair technician for a diagnostic test to pinpoint the issue.  It could be due to worn-out parts, or a blown transmission unit.

Need to find quality transmission repair?  Call our ASE Certified Technicians at Clausen Automotive, The Hybrid Shop, for more information about transmission service and to make an appointment. Since 1975, our family-owned auto repair shop has proudly served vehicle owners in Madison, WI, and the surrounding communities.

Are you wondering how often do you need to Buy New Tires?

Normally, the tires that come on a new vehicle will last for about 50,000 miles.  Most tire manufactures will state the specific lifespan of their tires so that you should be informed as to how many times they are good for when you purchase new tires.  

Of course, the actual life of your tires depends on some factors:

• The quality of the tire. 
• Is it a performance summer tire?
• The type of vehicle and how the tire is mounted.
• Treadwear rating, i.e., the expected length of tread life.
• How the car is driven. 

Did you realize that the four tires on your vehicle are the only parts of your vehicle that actually touch the road?  So it is important that you keep up with regular tire repair and maintenance, such as:  

• Correct inflation – This will ensure optimal contact with the road, improving fuel economy and helping the tread wear more evenly. 
• Tire Rotation – Moving your tires around to a different position on the vehicle will make sure they wear out in an even pattern. Usually, tires should be rotated every 6 months, or 6,000 to 8,000 miles, about every other oil change.  
• Wheel Alignment – Alignment refers to an adjustment of the vehicle’s suspension so that the angles of the tires affect how they make contact with the road.
• Balancing – Balancing is done with wheel weights to achieve smooth rolling of the tire. 

Quality tire service performed on a regular basis will ensure you get the most miles out of your tires while maximizing the safety of your vehicle.

Wondering how often do you need to buy new tires?  Call our ASE Certified Technicians at Clausen Automotive, The Hybrid Shop, for more information about tire repair and maintenance and to Make an appointment. Since 1975, our family-owned auto repair shop has proudly served car owners in Madison, WI, and the surrounding communities.

Do you know What Does A Major Car Service Include?

There are some drivers on the road who don’t keep up the car repair and preventative maintenance needed to keep their vehicle in good operating condition.  It may be the farthest thing from their mind during their busy day.  Or it could be that they just don’t have the money in their budget for seemingly unnecessary items.  Though, the cost of repairs for the damage that could be taking place, such as in the engine, transmission, or suspension systems (just to name a few) will certainly be greater than really paying for the suggested maintenance.  It really is true—you don’t save money by extending the time between the suggested service intervals. 

The difference between major and minor service is significant. Usually, minor services are commonly performed at 7,500, 15,000, 45,000 and 75,000 miles while major services are performed at 30,000, 60,000 and 90,000-mile intervals.  Though the major car services are not performed as frequently, they need to be done to protect the warranty, maintain safety, and boost the resale value of your vehicle.

Minor car service normally includes the following:

• Changing the oil and filter
• Tire service--rotation, alignment, balancing, air pressure 
• Checking and cleaning the battery
• A checkup of all fluids, filters, belts, hoses, brakes, and emissions
• Windshield wipers
• Replacing burned out lights

What does a major car service include?  Depending on the make and model of your vehicle, a major car service normally includes the following:

• All the minor services listed above.
• Replacement of different filters, fluids and spark plugs.
• Replacing the timing belt and/or serpentine belt at the suggested mileage interval.
• Servicing the air conditioner/heater
• Other services related to the fuel delivery, emissions and ignition systems.

There are two main benefits of keeping up with vehicle maintenance.  First, your mechanic can let you know what is starting to wear out, what needs replacing right away, and what’s looking good. Secondly, you can drive your car with confidence knowing that you have a reliable and safe source of transportation. 

Want to know more about what does a major car service include?  Call our ASE Certified Technicians at Clausen Automotive, The Hybrid Shop, for more information about car repair and maintenance and to make an appointment. Since 1975, our family-owned auto repair shop has proudly served vehicle owners in Madison, WI, and the surrounding communities.

Are you wondering what are the Symptoms of a Bad Car Battery?

Are you worried about the condition of your car battery because of starting issues or dim lights?  Understanding how a car battery works might help you in diagnosing the issue.  

The typical battery is a “wet-cell” battery, a plastic cube containing sulfuric acid and lead, with two terminals on the top or side.  It stores electrical power generated from the alternator while your car is running. It also sends electrical currents to the engine and other electrical components. 

The first thing to do is to inspect the fluid level in your battery.  If the fluid is low and has been for a while, this will preclude your battery from generating power.  Then inspect the battery cables.  If the cable connections are loose or corroded, the electrical current cannot travel to from the battery to the other electrical components.

Wondering what are the symptoms of a bad car battery?

1. Your engine cranks but doesn't start.  If your engine cranks or turns over when you turn the key, but it won't start, the battery is probably the culprit.  It could be the starter, but possibly not. Even if an ammeter says the battery is good, it can still be a few volts short to start your vehicle efficiently.
2. There is no power at all to start the motor and lights don’t come on.  This is a major sign that the battery is faulty.  It could be a combination issue with the alternator not charging the battery.
3. Intermittent starting issues.  The engine may start one day, but not the next day. There are two issues to consider--the battery terminals are loose, broken, corroded, or calcified, or you have something drawing electrical power from the battery even when the key is out of the ignition.  

If you are noticing any of the signs above, ask your auto mechanic if it’s time for a car battery replacement.

Do you know the symptoms of a bad car battery? Call our ASE Certified Technicians at Clausen Automotive, The Hybrid Shop, for more information about a car battery replacement and to make an appointment. Since 1975, our family-owned auto repair shop has proudly served car owners in Madison, WI, and the surrounding communities.

How Often Should I Replace Shocks and Struts?

Even though city streets and roads are bumpy and filled with potholes, it seems your vehicle’s “ride” is getting worse faster than it should.  You may wonder if the car axles are going bad, or if it’s bad shocks or struts.  Do you know how the entire suspension system, including the car axles, can be affected by bad shocks?  

Are you asking, “How often should I replace shocks and struts?”  It is usual that shocks wear out as your vehicle accumulates mileage. Though, they will wear out even more quickly when it is compulsory to drive over bumpy streets that need repair.  When shocks go bad, the results can be risky, as it impacts the steering and stopping performance of your vehicle.  Replacing the shocks, or struts will recover stopping performance as well as increased vehicle stability and driver control.

Consider these common symptoms of bad shocks:

1. Excessive Bouncing when hitting a bump or pothole.
2. Vehicle nose “dives” or “squats” when braking or accelerating.
3. Tire "Cupping" as the rubber wears off the tire each time it hits the ground.
4. Leaking hydraulic fluid from inside the shock.

Any of the above signs look familiar?  You don’t have to put up with these problems any longer than it takes to get your vehicle to an auto service center.

Wondering if the stability of your car axles is being compromised by bad shocks?  Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Clausen Automotive, The Hybrid Shop, for more information about car shock or struts and to make an appointment. Since 1975, our family-owned auto repair shop has proudly served car owners in Madison, WI, and the surrounding communities.