Why is Car Service Necessary on a regular basis?

New drivers may not always understand that car service is necessary.  Therefore, they put off suggested services, thinking they are saving money on seemingly needless items.  As long as their car is running, they think everything is fine.  The truth is, the damage could be taking place in the engine or transmission and they may be faced with a costly car repair bill later on.  Please realize that the cost of regular maintenance is considerably less than the cost of car repair.  For example, a damaged engine, transmission system. 

Why is car service necessary on a regular basis?  Your mechanic can inspect the overall condition of your car.  For example, if your suspension is wearing out, the appropriate parts can be replaced before the issue gets any bigger and damages other parts.  Regular car service can also find hidden damage.  For example, driving with low engine oil doesn't necessarily impact your ability to drive the car, though, after an extended period of time, the head gasket or the pistons will suffer damage.  This type of car repair can cost a small fortune instead of little bucks for an oil change.  Excessive wear on the steering and braking components can also be identified early on, preventing a failure on the road which could have devastating penalties. 

So why is car service necessary?  Consider these 4 benefits:

• You know your car – When something doesn’t feel right, sound right, you will be able to notice the difference.
• Your auto mechanic knows your car – By taking your vehicle to the same mechanic for service, problems can be recognized before they get too big.  They will also be able to tell you what is starting to wear out, or what wants replacing right away.
• Improved emissions – You don’t have to worry about passing the emission checkup.
• Confidence – You know your car is operating at its peak performance level and that you are driving as safe as potential. 

Do you know more about why is car service necessary?  Call our ASE Certified Technicians at Clausen Automotive, The Hybrid Shop, for more information about car 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.

Wondering how do you know if a radiator is bad?

It’s time to think about the radiator in your vehicle!  You will want to make sure you don’t get stuck out in cold weather and road conditions with an overheating engine and steam coming from underneath the hood of your car.  By knowing how do you know if a radiator is bad you can avoid an emergency visit to your auto shop to replace a radiator.  

So how do you know if a radiator is bad?  Schedule an inspection by an ASE certified mechanic if you notice these two main signs below:

• Leaking:  You may notice a puddle of coolant (it could be green, pink, or orange) on the garage floor under your vehicle. You could also notice a sweet smell.  There could be a crack in the radiator unit.  Radiator leakages and cracks should be repaired by an ASE certified mechanic.
• Warning Light:  If the coolant level drops too low, a low coolant light will come on and you will see the temperature gauge increasing, indicating that your engine is overheating.  If you notice your engine is overheating while driving, pull over instantly and call a tow truck.

Remember:  To prevent the necessity of replacing your radiator and for your vehicle to remain a trustworthy source of transportation, have the radiator checked periodically for leaks or cracks.  

For more information about how do you know if a radiator is bad, call our ASE Certified Technicians at Clausen Automotive, The Hybrid Shop, and to make an appointment. Since 1975, our family-owned auto shop has proudly served car owners in Madison, WI, and the surrounding communities.