Maintenance / Preventive Maintenance
Strange Car Noises You Should Never Ignore
Have you ever been driving and you are lost in your thoughts about how work would be, what you needed to do after work, and where you would get the money for this, that, and the other thing when suddenly, a noise interrupts your thoughts. What is that strange noise your car is making? What…
Read MoreThe Best Transmission Advice You Probably Aren’t Taking
Does your car have an automatic transmission? When was the last time you changed the fluid? When was the last time you had the transmission flushed? Chances are that you are scratching your head trying to remember. Or, perhaps you are thinking, “That’s just some mechanics way to make money off you. Transmission fluid gets…
Read More10 Car Care Basics for Young Drivers
Car Care 101 for Teen, College and New Drivers This is Part 2 of 2. Read Part 1. So, your kid is finally on their way to college. Or you have a high school grad who managed to land a terrific after-school job. Whether they’re borrowing your car or have their own, there are some…
Read MoreWhy do I need a timing belt replacement?
Timing belts are one of those maintenance items that car owners don’t often think about but should. The timing belt is a critical part of your engine. If it fails, your car will stop running and, in some cases, incur major engine damage. To help you head off any unexpected or costly surprises, let’s cover…
Read MoreWhat you need to know about your “Low Tire Pressure” warning light
For those of us who dread long, cold and dreary Chicago winters, the mid-February thaw we had was a sunny and joyful reprieve. But sudden and extreme swings in the air temperature can also trigger a dashboard warning light that many of us might not recognize: A glowing orange or red “Low Tire Pressure” indicator.…
Read More6-point checklist to get your car ready for spring!
The winter season is finally behind us! However, the harsh cold and wintry mix from “Old Man Winter” may have caused long-term effects on your car. Frigid temperatures, potholes, road salt and more can to do a number on your vehicle. Some of the casualties caused by wintry conditions are wheels knocked out of alignment or damaged shocks, struts and other suspension-system parts.
Read MoreWheels and Deals: Cutting Car Ownership Costs
Lots of vehicle owners chalk up car-ownership costs mainly to the price at the pump or unexpected repairs, but other factors figure big-time in calculating how much your set of wheels truly is costing. Driving style, preventive maintenance and insurance options all contribute to how much you’re paying (and could be saving).
Read MoreWe offer service with a SMILE
When weekend warriors head to the hardware store for supplies to paint their family room, their to-buy list may include paint, paint brushes and drop cloths. However, from the moment they enter the store, the retail team guides them through the buying process to ensure they leave with everything they need. In the paint department,…
Read MorePhone estimates rarely ring true
Remember the old Phone First ad campaign? Its spirited little jingle implored people not to waste time and gas visiting stores that were closed or out of a certain item, but to get on the horn instead. That logic works OK for checking on inventory or asking about operating hours, but not so great for…
Read MoreVehicle making ghoulish noises? Use our checklist to get to bottom of those haunting sounds
Are you one of those adults who loves Halloween? If so, you’re in good company. A recent study shows that 68% of adults celebrate Halloween, and if you’re one of them, you’re probably already pulling together the props and materials for this year’s perfect costume. But as you’re driving from Wilmette to Chicago in search…
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