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Quality Oil Changes: Are They Worth It?

There's nothing wrong with trying to save some money on your vehicle. That includes getting an oil change. After all, you need to have the oil changed on your vehicle ever 5,000 miles or so. Based on your driving habits, this might be once every six months, it might be once a year. However often it is, cutting down the price with oil change coupons can go a long way. However, you don't want to go to just any oil change location simply because it has the lowest price. As an conscientious consumer, make sure your car is well taken care of and what options for oil changes are available.

If you are looking for quality Oil Changes North Branch MN than find our dedicated Car Service North Branch MN shop.Also meet our Radiator Repair North Branch MN mechanic for your vehicle’s safety.

First, an oil change service is more than you think. The oil filter should be replaced at the same time. If it isn't, bits of dirt and debris that breaks away from the inside of your engine can develop a clot inside the engine, which in turn may cause all sorts of problems. Secondly, the engine air filter should be inspected and replaced as necessary. It is worth a few extra dollars and a few more minutes of your time to have this taken care of on a regular basis.

A cheap oil change doesn't do much good for your vehicle or for you if you are left waiting around in a small room for hours at a time. Most auto shops can either schedule appointments or can take care of an oil change in just a few minutes.

Is it time for an oil change? Contact our ASE-certified technicians at A&C Automotive & Machine for more information about our oil change coupons and to schedule an appointment. Since 1985, our auto center has served vehicle owners in North Branch, MN, and in the surrounding areas of Harris and Stacy, MN.

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Engine Service: A Vital Part of Routine Automotive Service!

When one keeps track of the engine service performed regularly on your automobile, the money invested will return large savings in preventing costly automotive repair down the road. A finely tuned engine provides the best possible gas mileage for your car. Do not waste gas by driving a car without the benefit of a well-maintained engine. Regular automotive service and maintenance should always include changing the oil and oil filter, lubrication, checking the brakes, tire rotation and checking the tire pressure, checking all appropriate fluid levels, inspecting light bulbs, inspecting wiper blades, and inspecting all engine belts.

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The value of your vehicle will be enhanced by the correct automotive service. As important as the outside appearance is in keeping up the desirability of your car, ongoing engine repair is even more vital. The regularity of service will assure superior value while you drive your car and the market value at the time you are ready to sell it will be significantly better.

Whether traveling locally to and from work, driving near home to run errands, or picking up or dropping off children at school or other activities, no one wants a trip interrupted by their car not performing properly. When traveling for business or pleasure on long trips, an emergency automotive repair can cause havoc. If problems arise while away from home, having to deal with unknown technicians can be a frightening and more costly proposition. Valuable time is lost from one's professional responsibilities and from cherished vacation time. Scheduled preventive automotive service will avoid such traumatic encounters locally or on long journeys away from home.

Remember: Regular automotive service is the most cost-effective way to drive worry free at all times.

Anxious about an automotive repair issue for the engine? Contact our ASE-certified technicians at A&C Automotive & Machine for more information about automotive service and to schedule an appointment. Since 1985, our auto center has served vehicle owners in North Branch, MN, and in the surrounding areas of Harris and Stacy, MN.

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Expert Engine Service for Continued Performance!

The engine is the heart of your vehicle. If you want to make sure it is a long lasting car, truck, SUV or whatever else you drive, you need to take care of the engine. This means having it regularly checked up and services performed. But what kind of engine service should you have scheduled for your vehicle? By following the engine service guide, your expert engine repair technicians can spot potential problems well in advance.

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Oil Change

If the engine is the heart of your vehicle, the oil is the blood. Without one there isn't another. You need to have oil to keep the engine cool and to keep it running properly. It keeps everything lubricated inside of the engine and allows you to continue driving the vehicle. During an oil change your technician is going to change the oil filter and top off your fluids inside of the vehicle as well. All of this is necessary for a long lasting engine.

Tune Up

With a tune up there are some additional services performed. Spark plugs may be replaced, which helps the engine burn more efficiently (it is also going to save on your fuel economy). During this engine service, potential problems can be identified as well. Should your technician spot something during the tune up, they can recommend the appropriate engine repair needed.

Keep it Cool

You need to keep your vehicle running and to do this, you need to keep the engine cool. The coolant helps maintain the proper temperature. You should look at the occasional coolant flush to push out any gunk build up. This way, you'll always be running clean while driving the vehicle.

Anxious about an engine repair issued? Contact our ASE-certified technicians at A&C Automotive & Machine for more information about engine service and to schedule an appointment. Since 1985, our auto center has served vehicle owners in North Branch, MN, and in the surrounding areas of Harris and Stacy, MN.

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When Is A Complete Brake Replacement Needed?

When a complete brake replacement is needed is sometimes difficult to determine. There is no set time for it. Anyone who drives in an urban stop-and-go environment will have to replace them faster than someone who drives along a rural highway. However, there are some signs that are reliable and time-tested. Anyone can determine when brake pads or rotors might need a repair, or when it's simply time to completely replace the brakes by noticing the signs below.

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Warning sign #1: Brake warning lights are a good indicator of when it's time for a brake replacement. These are little lights that look like a circle with either an exclamation mark or a P inside of it. Brake rotors--a disc that is used to keep brakes from scratching the car's underside--are a part of the braking system. Worn rotors are often simply replaced along with the brake pads in a minor brake repair.

Warning sign #2: Another warning sign for a replacement is strange noises. Some braking systems squeal when it's time to replace them. Others will make a squeaking noise. If the brakes are grinding, it means the brake pads are completely worn out and cannot keep the brakes from scraping any longer.

Warning sign #3: If the car pulls from one side or the other when driving, is another indication that something in the system needs to be replaced. Your car may seem to have a mind of its own.

Need a quality brake repair? Contact our ASE-certified technicians at A&C Automotive & Machine for more information about brake replacement and to schedule an appointment. Since 1985, our auto repair shop has served vehicle owners in North Branch, MN, and in the surrounding areas of Harris and Stacy, MN.

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Is Car Service on your New Year's list?

Car service means a set of maintenance procedures carried out after a vehicle has traveled for a certain distance. Today's manufactured cars are now equipped with gadgets that automatically show when the next date of service should be. Typically, when routine car service is completed, your mechanic will record it in a service history for your your vehicle.

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There are a number of maintenance tasks that are carried out during car repair, such as changing the engine oil, air and fuel filters, and replacing the spark plugs, just to name a few. During a car service, it’s also advisable to check the level of brake fluid, power steering fluid, and automatic transmission fluid, and refill if necessary. There are also various mechanical parts which need regular check-ups to be sure the car is in good operating condition.

Many people make various resolutions at the beginning of each New Year. But they forget an important resolution relating to car maintenance. Car service is essential as it saves the need to buy a new car, thus helping you save money.

There are a number of resolutions to consider when it comes to maintaining your vehicle. These resolutions will go a long way in helping you save money and keep your car in good condition, keeping you driving safely during the year. Some of these car services include:

1. Schedule at least two automotive check-ups during the year.  2. Take care of small problems as they arise, such as strange vehicle noise. 3. Keep up with fluids and filter changes, ensuring that your vehicle is in good operating condition.

If you’re looking for quality car repair, contact our ASE-certified technicians at A&C Automotive & Machine for more information about car service and to schedule an appointment. Since 1985, our auto repair shop has served vehicle owners in North Branch, MN, and in the surrounding areas of Harris and Stacy, MN.

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Transmission Repair:  Watch for these 10 Signs of Problems!

Keep your car or truck in peak operating performance by taking care of regular vehicle maintenance, including transmission service.  Because transmissions get a lot of use over the years and miles, they're bound to start having some problems and may require a major transmission repair. Transmission repairs can be expensive, so it's worthwhile to pay attention to anything that seems unusual.

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Be on guard if you see any of these symptoms of transmission problems:

Refuses to go into Gear

Burning Smell

Noisy in Neutral

Gears slipping

Dragging clutch

Leaking fluid

Check Engine light

Grinding or Shaking

Whining, Clunking, or Humming

Lack of Response

The most common culprit of these problems are low transmission fluid (the result of a leak), wrong viscosity of the fluid, the shift cables or clutch linkage need an adjustment, or normal mechanical wear that requires the replacement of hard parts.

A diagnostic test will help identify early on any pending problems that you can’t even feel or see. It could be something other than the transmission, such as the constant velocity joints (CV joints), or even the differential.  Seek advice from your professional transmission service technician.

Anxious about a transmission repair issue? Contact our ASE-certified technicians at http://www.aandcautomotive.com for more information about transmission service and to schedule an appointment.  Since 1985, our auto center has served vehicle owners in North Branch, MN, and in the surrounding areas of Harris and Stacy, MN.  

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Give a Gift to your Car:  Quality Auto Repair Services.

Are you headed over the hills and through the woods to get to your holiday destination?  Don’t forget to schedule an appointment with your preferred auto repair shop to take care of any needed auto repair services.  No one wants to have a breakdown, especially not in snowy winter weather!  Checking the items on the list below will help you arrive safely at your destination.

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Safe Driving Checklist:

Routine auto repair services.  Have your entire vehicle inspected thoroughly for leaks, worn hoses, or other needed repairs or parts replacements.

Battery.  Check the voltage, charging system, belts, and cable connections to make sure your battery is up to the challenges of winter.  It may be time to replace your old battery. 

Cooling system.  Make sure the coolant mixture is effective for the winter temperatures in your part of the country.  Make sure there are not leaks.  If you have an older vehicle, it may be time to actually have flush the cooling system (draining the system and replacing the coolant).

Windshield wipers and defrosters.  Replace worn wipers; fill the washer reservoir (use high-quality “no- freeze” fluid); and make sure that the window defrosters (both front and rear) are working properly. 

Tires.  Because tire pressure drops as the temperature drops, check to ensure your tires are properly inflated.  Also check the tread-wear pattern.  If too worn, it may be wise to replace your tires, possibly with snow tires. 

Learn how to drive.  Take a little extra time now to learn how to best handle your vehicle under winter weather driving conditions.  Know what kind of brakes your vehicle has and how to use them properly in stormy conditions. 

Plan ahead.  Know your route so you can check the weather, road conditions, and traffic.  Allow plenty of time to get to your destination safely.  Let others know your route and anticipated arrival time.  Keep your gas tank close to full.

Stock up.  Carry items in your trunk to handle common winter driving tasks, such as, snow shovel, small broom, ice scraper; sand or kitty litter, jumper cables, flashlight, flares, blankets; cell phone with charger, water, snacks, and extra prescription medicines.

A word of caution:  To avoid carbon monoxide poisoning when stuck in snow, be sure to keep the exhaust pipe clear of snow and ice, run your vehicle only in the open with the windows partially down, and only long enough to keep warm.

If you’re looking for quality auto repair, contact our ASE-certified technicians at http://www.aandcautomotive.com for more information about our auto repair services and to schedule an appointment.  Since 1985, our auto repair shop has served vehicle owners in North Branch, MN, and in the surrounding areas of Harris and Stacy, MN.  

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Auto Repair Warranties:  Good--or not so Good?

Are you anxious about the last auto repair performed on your vehicle?  Were you offered a warranty?  You may have been confused as to whether it covered only parts, only labor, or possibly both.  Understanding warranties for auto repair services can be confusing--there are good ones and not so good ones.

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Before making a decision as to whether to accept the offer of an auto repair warranty, here are three simple questions to ask:

1. What is covered?  The better question may be, “What is not covered?”  Be sure to take time to read through all the fine print and ask to have it explained in detail.  Not all warranties cover the same things, so don’t let your auto repair mechanic assume you know what it covers.  Does it cover just the drive train, or is it bumper-to-bumper?  Does it cover common auto repair services?  Is it good for a certain number of miles, or is it for a few months?

 2. Is it cost-effective?  What is the cost—long term and/or short-term?  If you compare on average how much you spend in auto repair versus how much the warranty will cost you for each year, is it worth it?  If there is a deductible, is it a one-time cost, yearly, or for each auto repair service?  

3. What are the stipulations?  Every extended warranty normally comes with a set of rules or stipulations. How stringent are the rules on the particular warranty you are being offered?  Does it apply only to that particular dealer or auto repair shop? 

Caution:  Read the fine print to double-check the coverage, count the cost, and consider the rules before committing to an extended warranty.

Need expert advice about auto repair warranties?  Contact our ASE-certified technicians at A&C Automotive & Machine by calling 651-674-4733, or go online at http://aandcautomotive.com for more information about our auto repair services.  Since 1985, our auto repair shop has served vehicle owners in North Branch, MN, and in the surrounding areas of Harris and Stacy, MN.  

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Which Auto Shop is the Best Choice?

Have you ever needed to just pick up a few simple parts for your vehicle, possibly windshield wipers or washer fluid? Or, have you been experiencing car problems but just can’t seem to put your finger on what is wrong? Do you know what kind of auto shop you should be looking for? Because there are many vehicle owners that are looking for different things to meet their immediate need, there are different kinds of auto centers offering different kinds of services. However, some auto shops may not provide the kind of vehicle maintenance or repairs you actually need, so be sure to ask questions about the services offered. For most auto repairs, a full-service auto center that offers complete car care may be your best choice! There, you can get the washer reservoir filled to a complete engine rebuild.

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The brief descriptions below of various types of auto shops may help you determine what kind of auto center to look for:

Auto Parts Store – These stores sell automotive parts to the general public. Some stores may also operate minor or general maintenance or repair services.

Independently Owned and Operated Auto Center – This category may include national chains and franchises, including car dealerships, as well as family-owned business. An independent auto shop may also achieve certification for certain makes and models of vehicles through manufacturer-sponsored programs, such as for hybrid vehicles.

Specialty Shops – These shops specialize in a few specific components and systems, such as brakes, mufflers,, transmissions, tires, electrical, air conditioners, glass repairs and installation, wheel alignment, or particular brands of vehicles.

Online Auto Shop – Online shopping provides repair services delivery of new and used auto parts to your doorstep vehicles whose parts are not widely available.

Check out the Auto Center’s ASE Certification -- The ASE (The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence) is a professional organization that certifies auto shops and auto repair technicians in the U.S. and Canada. Their goal is to improve the quality of vehicle repair and service through the testing and certification of professionals.

If you’re looking for a full-service auto center, contact our ASE-certified technicians at A&C Automotive & Machine by calling 651-674-4733, or go online at http://aandcautomotive.com for more information. Since 1985, our auto shop has served vehicle owners in North Branch, MN, and in the surrounding areas of Harris and Stacy, MN.

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Car Battery Maintenance: Don’t Let Winter Steal Your Charge!

Because the lifespan of a car battery is limited, be sure to have it checked by a professional before the cold temperatures of winter hit and you find yourself stranded in your driveway on a cold morning. To maximize the lifespan of your car battery and reduce the risk of an inconvenient car battery replacement, follow the simple maintenance tips below:

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Drive your vehicle regularly. Driving your vehicle regularly helps maintain the required level of charge. Leaving a vehicle sitting in a cold garage or driveway for an extended period of time can steal the charge from the battery.

Schedule routine engine service. Be sure your engine is in peak condition. Poor engine condition can overload the battery.

Check the Charging rate. At every major vehicle service interval, have the charging rate checked. Both under and over-charging reduces the life of the battery and can void the warranty.

Avoid draining the charge. Vehicle accessories (such as lights and radio) will run the charge out of the battery. Constant recharging can minimize the life of your battery.

Keep it clean. At every major service interval, the battery case and terminals should be cleaned. Dirt and dampness can damage your battery case and may cause it to lose its charge.

Secure it down. Inspect the terminals regularly—excessive vibration can damage the battery plates, and loose connections can cause breakdowns.

Don't jump start a dead battery. In modern cars, this will damage the electronics. You may need to call an auto shop for a tow or a car battery replacement.

Tip to Remember: Ready for winter? Keep the charge in your car battery and avoid a premature car battery replacement by following the maintenance tips above.

Need your car battery checked? Contact our ASE-certified technicians at A&C Automotive & Machine by calling 651-674-4733, or go online at http://aandcautomotive.com for more information about a car battery replacement. Since 1985, our auto center has served vehicle owners in North Branch, MN, and in the surrounding areas of Harris and Stacy, MN.

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Need Increased Vehicle Performance? Quality Oil Changes are the Key!

An engine has two big enemies—heat and friction! Regular oil changes guard against the damage that heat and friction causes by keeping the moving parts lubricated, while increasing performance!  Take care of your car with premium oil changes. Many auto shops offer oil change coupons to make them more affordable. Skimping on oil changes might find you spending more time and money in an auto repair shop.

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Want to know more about how to increase your engine’s operating performance and add to the longevity of your vehicle?

Here are a few basic facts about oil changes you should know:

The right weight – Knowing the right weight of oil to use can help the overall performance of your engine. Typically, a 5W-30 performs better in colder climates, 10W-40 for warmer climates. Ask your auto mechanic for professional advice.

Manufacturer's Recommendations – Use the oil recommended by your vehicle's manufacturer. Don’t void the manufacturer’s warranty by using the wrong oil.

Consider Synthetics – Synthetic oil may cost a little more at each oil change, but it will eventually pay off with increased savings. Synthetics provide better protection, increases the interval between oil changes, fewer breakdowns, improved cold weather starts, and increased fuel mileage. Though it provides adequate protection, petroleum motor oils are prone to breakdown, sludge, and more frequent oil changes.

Clean oil – While a vehicle is running, the engine produces metal fragments that are harmful to the engine. Routine oil changes help to "flush" out any fragments and keep the oil clean.

High-quality filter – A high-quality filter is worth the extra cost for the added protection.

Remember: Regular oil change intervals, plus the use of high-quality oil and filters, are major factors in how your vehicle performs, giving you worry-free miles down the road!

Looking for quality oil changes? Contact our ASE-certified technicians at A&C Automotive & Machine by calling 651- 674-4733, or go online at http://aandcautomotive.com for more information and to find our oil change coupons. Since 1985, our auto shop has served vehicle owners in North Branch, MN, and in the surrounding areas of Harris and Stacy, MN.

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Which One Should It Be - Wheel Alignment or Wheel Balancing?

This is often the million dollar questions that vehicle owners are the most confused about! Even though wheel alignment and wheel balancing are separate services, both of them are important and necessary for enhancing the life and performance of your tires.

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When do I need a Wheel Balancing?

With enough miles, wheels lose their balance and a wheel balancing service is necessary to restore proper balance.  Out-of-balance tires affect both the quality of the handling, and the wear of the tires. While wheels and tires are machine made, and theoretically uniform, in reality there are slight irregularities that make them slightly heavier on one side than the other. As the tread on your tire wears down, the distribution of weight around the tire changes. This leads to an imbalance that causes the vehicle to shake or vibrate.

During a wheel balancing service, the technician will use a calibrated spin balancer, and usually will test both static (non-moving) and dynamic (moving) balance. One guideline to remember is to have a tire balancing service each time you have your tires rotated (usually every 5-6,000 miles).

When do I need a Wheel Alignment?

It is obvious that a car performs best with all four wheels straight up and down, and all facing in the same direction.  Even through the suspension components are made of steel, they will actually deform slightly over the life of the car, and a wheel alignment will be necessary at some point. Most manufacturers recommend having a routine check of wheel alignment about every 10,000 miles. You should also have the wheel alignment checked if you notice your vehicle pulling to one side, or if you have recently been in a collision. 

During a wheel alignment service, your technician will adjust the angle of your car’s wheels to the position of the manufacturer’s recommended specification.The tread should be checked for uneven wear (a sign of a poor alignment), as well as the toe, camber, and caster inspected (the main components for measuring wheel orientation).

Have questions about your vehicle’s needed wheel alignment or wheel balancing?Contact our ASE-certified technicians at A&C Automotive & Machine by calling 651-674-4733, or go online at http://aandcautomotive.com for more information.  Since 1985, our auto center has served vehicle owners in North Branch, MN, and in the surrounding areas of Harris and Stacy, MN. 

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Automotive Service: Going Green!

Many vehicle owners are looking for ways to become more environmentally friendly with their vehicle. A schedule of basic automotive service or keeping up with seemingly insignificant issues of automotive repair may not have entered their mind.

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But, just by following the four simple steps below, drivers can save money, and help protect the environment at the same time.

Regular automotive service. This includes checking engine performance, keeping tires properly inflated, replacing air filters, regular oil changes, and checking the gas cap. Routine automotive service helps reduce emissions and fuel consumption, keeping the air we breathe cleaner, and saving you money at the pump.

Keep your current vehicle. Limit the number of new cars you buy over the course of a lifetime. Extending vehicle life is as simple as quality automotive service on a regular basis, and not neglecting any necessary automotive repair issues. You’ll gain years of reliable service without monthly car payments and higher insurance rates.

Recycle. By recycling and properly disposing of motor oil, tires, batteries, and other used parts and fluids, you are helping protect our earth as you practice good automotive service and repair.

Repower your engine. If you are facing serious engine trouble, consider a remanufactured or rebuilt engine. It can give your vehicle new life and make it more fuel efficient for about the cost of an average down payment on a new car.

Remember:Taking care of the appropriate automotive service and having the right automotive repair performed on a regular basis will go a long way toward protecting the environment and saving you money.

To learn more about the right automotive repair, contact our ASE-certified technicians at A & C Automotive & Machine by calling 651-674-4733, or go online at http://aandcautomotive.com for more information about automotive service. Since 1985, our auto shop has served vehicle owners in North Branch, MN, and in the surrounding areas of Harris and Stacy, MN.

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Ready for New Tires?

All tires wear out over time, but some drivers want to wait as long as possible before paying for new tires. However, the dollars they keep putting out for urgent tire repair keeps adding up too. Don’t wait until your old tires are a hazard on the road. If in doubt as to whether or not it’s time to replace your old tires, consider the five visual signs below indicating that new tires are necessary.

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Take a look at . . .

  1)    Tread depth -- If tread depth is less than 1/16th of an inch, it’s time to go to a tire service center for purchasing new tires.     2)    Indicator bars --  Newer tires have tread-wear indicator bars that gradually begin to appear as the tread wears down. These appear as flat rubber bars running perpendicular to the direction of the tread itself. If more than one or two of these bars are visible, the tread is getting low.      3)    Cracks in the sidewall – Grooves or cracks in the sidewall could be a sign that your tire is developing a leak.   4)    Bulges or blisters -- Bulges or blisters on the outer surface indicate that the tire is beginning to get weak spots.  This could lead to a sudden blow out, causing you to lose control of your car.     5)    Vibration -- Excessive vibration could be caused by any number of issues, one of which could be an internal problem in a tire. Even if the tire isn't the root cause, the vibration could damage the tire and wear it out prematurely.

Regular tire service to checkout the condition of your tires can help prevent tire failure while driving.  Don’t get caught on the side of the road, or lose control of your car with a flat or blowout!  Have your tires checked before something goes wrong!  

Need new tires before setting out on your road trip?  Contact our ASE-certified technicians, tire repair specialists, at A&C Automotive & Machine by calling 651-674-4733, or go online at http://aandcautomotive.com for more information about tire service.  Since 1985, our auto center has served vehicle owners in North Branch, MN, and in the surrounding areas of Harris and Stacy, MN.

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Need Engine Repair?  6 Signs of Problems!

As most drivers are aware, it is important to keep your vehicle running strong with regular engine service.  If engine service is neglected, several signs of problems will start to develop.  It won’t take long until the car is just sitting in the garage, unable to run if the necessary engine repair isn’t taken care of as soon as possible.  In addition to the problems caused by just regular wear and tear from added miles and age, problems will develop from poor maintenance, lubrication problems, or excessive overheating. 

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Symptoms of existing engine trouble include:

A smoking muffler;

Burning oil;

Knocking or tapping sounds;

Low oil pressure; low compression;

Water mixing in oil;

Oil leaking into the air cleaner and/or radiator.

Rather than have a major engine repair, possibly an engine rebuild, many vehicle owners want to just go and purchase a new vehicle.  This simply avoids the problem.  A vehicle that needs major engine repair is hard to sell.  Once you consider the “hidden” costs of purchasing a new vehicle, disposing of your old one may not be the best decision if you’re trying to save money.  Ask your auto technician to discuss all the engine repair options that are available. 

What are the benefits of rebuilding or repairing your old engine, rather than purchasing a new vehicle?  Compare the costs of a rebuilt or factory remanufactured engine--the labor to install them, replacing the thermostat, water pump, and disposable automotive parts, such as spark plugs, ignition wires, belts, hoses, filters and gaskets, against the price of a new vehicle.  With the price of new vehicle on the rise each year, replacing your current engine with a remanufactured or rebuilt unit is typically the most cost effective choice.  And, something vehicle owners may not know, often a rebuilt engine gets better gas mileage and emits fewer pollutants.    

Tip to Remember:  Before making a decision about going ahead with a recommended engine repair, you may want to obtain several estimates and discuss the options available to determine the best value of your engine repair.

For answers to your questions about engine repair options, contact our ASE-certified technicians at A&C Automotive & Machine by calling 651-674-4733, or go online at http://aandcautomotive.com for more information about engine service.  Since 1985, our auto center has served vehicle owners in North Branch, MN, and in the surrounding areas of Harris and Stacy, MN.  

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Regular Brake Service: Prevent an Accident!

All drivers are aware that properly working brakes are essential for driving safety. Because brakes are one of the most hard-working systems in a vehicle, if you keep your vehicle long enough, the different components will eventually wear out. Unfortunately, some vehicle owners are tempted to ignore timely brake service as long as their vehicle comes to a stop. Whatever the reason, possibly a tight budget, or the time need to take their car to an auto shop, they put off a professional inspection of their brakes.

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Why is regular brake service important?

It can prevent an inconvenient and expensive brake repair, and

It can prevent a serious accident.

Follow these tips to keep your brakes working efficiently:

Regular brake service – Taking good care of your brakes includes the repair or replacement of brake pads, resurfacing rotors, or replacing dirty brake fluid.

Use quality replacement parts – Use brand-new, name-brand replacement parts specifically designed for your vehicle.

Practice good driving habits – The performance and longevity of your brakes can be increased by slowing down earlier, avoiding abrupt stops, and not riding the brake pedal.

Replacement of calipers – Calipers are the exception to the rule of using brand-new replacement parts.It may be possible to use rebuilt calipers, which are typically half the cost of new ones and there is no recognizable difference in braking performance.

A word to the wise: Every part of the braking system should work together to safely stop your car (from brake pads to rotors, brake lines to hoses, calipers to the master cylinder).  A little extra time and money spent on quality brake service can save you time and money in the long run by preventing a costly brake repair. Even more importantly, it could prevent an accident!

Concerned about the stopping power of your brakes?Contact our ASE-certified technicians at A&C Automotive & Machine by calling 651-674-4733, or go online to http://aandcautomotive.com for more information about our brake service.Since 1985, our auto repair shop has served vehicle owners in North Branch, MN, and in the surrounding areas of Harris and Stacy, MN.

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Exhaust System: Want to Rumble?

Some drivers may be wondering, “What is the purpose of the exhaust system?”  Simply stated, the exhaust system is one of the key systems that impacts the overall performance of a vehicle. It facilitates the removal of waste gases to streamline horsepower, gas mileage and the overall efficiency of your car or truck.  The muffler is just one component of this system.

If you are looking for Exhaust Systems North Branch MN than find our dedicated Automotive Service North Branch MN Services shop. Also find Brake Rotors North Branch MN to have safe driving.

The exhaust system is composed of tubing intended to expel exhaust gases away from the controlled combustion taking place inside the engine.  The manufacturer’s original muffler and exhaust components are intentionally manufactured to limit this process.  Their primary intent is to stifle the noise created by your engine, which in turn, reduces its efficiency. 

After-market mufflers and performance exhaust systems have been produced for vehicle owners who “want a little more.”  They can be purchased and installed on your current vehicle.  Performance exhaust systems feature vehicle-enhancing components that will provide an immediate boost to performance while also delivering the “rumble” that is virtually non-existent in stock parts. Upgrading your vehicle’s exhaust system is an easy way to dramatically improve the performance of your vehicle, and make an impression with your muffler. 

Before making a final decision about to whether or not to upgrade your muffler and exhaust system, ask your auto technician to explain the pros and cons of each of the options available for your vehicle.

Need professional service for your muffler?  Contact our ASE-certified technicians at A&C Automotive & Machine by calling 651-674-4733, or go online at http://aandcautomotive.com for more information.  Since 1985, our auto center has served vehicle owners in North Branch, MN, and in the surrounding areas of Harris and Stacy, MN.