Mishawaka Auto Repair

We will be closed on Wednesday July 4th, for any last minute work we will be open on Monday and Tuesday, the 2nd and the 3rd.  Mention this blog(tell Ann sent you) and get $10.00 off. Have a Blessed and safe 4th

“My TCS Light is on with my Honda Odyssey, what does that mean?”  “What is the TCS Light?” TCS stands for Traction Control System.  When driving slower (up to 18 mph or less) the TCS helps you maintain control on loose or slippery surfaces. The TCS system sensors are connected to the ABS(Anti-lock Braking System) they monitor the speed of each of the wheels.  When you see the Light on and it stays on, it could be a damaged or malfunctioning wheel speed sensors which can happen from corrosion(all the salt and gravel used in our harsh winters).  Or one of the sensor wires are damaged. Call us at Ricks Auto Service here in Mishawaka IN.  #TCS #Honda #HondaOdyssey #Brakes

“What is the ABS light?” “What does it mean when my ABS light is on?” When your ABS light is on your regular brakes should work fine. What may not work is the antilock feature which prevents wheels from locking up during braking. If your car is made after 2012, it has stability control and traction control, unfortunately it relies on the same wheel-speed sensors at the anti-lock system. Here is what causes the light to come on: Your fuse may have been blown for that system. Your wheel-speed sensor is damaged or with all the grime in the streets it could be covered and needs to be cleaned. Broken wires between the sensors and the ABS controller. An ABS controller has stopped working. if your pump or valve is not giving the brake fluid pressure the right amount that could trigger the ABS sensor. You could be losing brake fluid. Come by Ricks Auto Service  we can do a diagnostic check and figure out the problem is. #ABS #Maintenance #Brake

We see this type of corrosion regularly and it can cause a slow leak. You can see the comparison where our Technician cleaned and buffed the area and where the corrosion is. Abrasive elements may intrude between the tire and wheel at the bead seat area. Due to relative motion between the tire and wheel, this motion may cause abrasive particles to wear the wheel surface. As the wear continues, corrosive media from the environment may cause corrosion of the wheel bead seat, resulting in tire pressure loss. With the TPMS warning light, you can catch the problem before the tire becomes completely flat. #FlatTire #Flat #TPMS #Corrosion #Maintenance #Michiana #StJoeCounty

#POTHOLES: We live with them whether we like them or not! Here is a check you can do when you hear that sickening thunk after hitting one full force. (Blew a tire doing that, didn’t even see it was full of water) #TIRES:  Since tires are the first to hit the hole, damage can happen like sidewall bulges, tread separation or flats. Don’t drive on a blown out tire it isn’t safe, and you may be able to patch the tire. #WHEELS: Sometimes you may hit the pothole at such an angel that the impact can bend chip or crack the rim where the metal meets the tire. (check out the Picture) #SUSPENSION: Your cars’ suspension is designed to absorb impacts providing you with a smooth ride. However, slamming against potholes can cause many different suspension problems. You may end of with an out of alignment(we can take care of that). If the car is doing any of the following give us a call: car pulls in on ... read more

Ignoring your cars’ maintenance needs is not good for your car. Your car needs it’s regular checkups, when you don’t it usually results in expensive repairs down the road. Here are some benefits that you and your car can experience with regular maintenance: Your vehicle will run more efficiently—When you bring your car in for it’s regular maintenance it gives our trained mechanics an opportunity to see where problems might be starting and repair those parts before they deteriorate. Improves your Fuel Efficiency: With the rise in gas prices this is an important priority for most drivers. When you allow your fuel system to become dirty it clogs air filters that can reduce your car’s fuel-efficiency. Keep Warranty Coverage: There are certain criteria’s that the manufacture needs documented to allow for the warranty claim. Some have been denied because of not having routine maintenance. More money when you sell: When trading your car the buyer ... read more