Mishawaka Auto Repair

NO Crank/No Start or Crank/No Start? There are two types of No Starts/. With the start of the Cold season, we’ve got several calls with these problems. Generally, a “no-start” vehicle will either fail to crank or fail to start while cranking. No-start conditions can arise from many locations on the vehicle, including the engine, transmission, grounding wires in any part of the vehicle, battery, alternator and more.  Most vehicles will fail to start at some point. Most common issue is starting and charging system could be bad battery, alternator, battery cable or starter. ONE, of the ways to be on top of that is PROPER MAINTENANCE. Bring your vehicle to a specialist to properly diagnosis the problem. Give us a call 574-255-4724 or go to our website https://www.ricksautoservice.org/appointments  

What happens to cars in extreme cold? Battery - Ever wonder why it’s harder to start your car in extreme cold? The extreme cold actually pulls voltage from the battery. We do free battery check so you won’t be left in the cold… Your battery should last an average of three years, not sure bring it by. FLUIDS -  Check the oil, antifreeze, power steering, brake, transmission fluid and windshield wiper fluid(nice to have) With cold weather the fluids thicken making it harder for the car to run properly. Tires – Did you know you lose 1 pound per square inch(psi) with every 10f drop of temperature. When your tires are under-inflated they don’t drive well. Windshield and wiper blades – It’s the difference from seeing and not seeing having washer fluid and new blades..just make it a habit to replace every 6 months to a year. Spark Plugs – if you have a ... read more

How do I prepare myself for winter? Were you caught off guard? We can help.. But, here are some things that you can do without breaking the bank book. Keep gas tank full to avoid ice in the tank and fuel lines. Use a wintertime formula in your windshield washer. Do you have an emergency kit? Some ideas certainly not an exhaustive list: Cell phone, portable charger, extra batteries Blankets. Food and water – high protein food Flares, tire pump, booster cables, either sand or kitty litter(great traction) Flashlight, extra batteries First aid kit  

The holidays are right around the corner. No doubt you’ve already had plans in the works for quite some time. Destinations decided, hotels booked, and modes of transportation lined up.   The unexpected always pop up, be proactive this year! If flying: Shop around Plot connections carefully Leave early Pack wisely Plan ahead for parking Take advantage of shortcuts Travel early in the day Bring some creature comforts Keep cool, don’t lose your temper Put it all together : boarding pass sent to phone, leave early, don’t sweat the small stuff, travel light, go to and through security, arrive at gate early. If driving: Making sure your car is maintained and prepared for Holiday Travel. Some of the most important maintenance items to check off your list to do before travel include: Installing winter wipers Putting on your winter tires Check your tire pressure regularly Keep your gas tank at least half full at all times Ensure your rear window defr ... read more

     Your brake system is made of many components when working well,  your brakes seem to operate seamlessly. If one thing needs to be repaired, the whole system is compromised. Brake pads, rotors, hoses, calipers, and metal lines all play a part in stopping your car.      Our team is equipped to make sure all of those parts are in working order, so you can be safe on the road ahead.       It makes sense that brakes need to be serviced more often than other systems on your vehicle. If you think about it, it’s pretty incredible those 4 inch brake pads can stop the momentum of a ton of moving metal thousands of times with no issue. Given the amount of stress your brakes are under, when one component fails, it’ll lead to other failures if the issue isn’t addressed.      Bad pads lead to bad rotors, bad hoses lead to worn pads, etc...it’s much more cost effective to get any ... read more